Monday, February 18, 2019

Ackley Bridge. Series 2


From the creators of the BAFTA “Best Drama” winner Shameless (UK) and BAFTA “Best Miniseries” winner National Treasure, Acorn TV features the DVD debut of the acclaimed school-based British drama ACKLEY BRIDGE, Series 2 on February 12, 2019.Ackley Bridge offers a gritty, funny and truthful insight into the daily drama of teachers, teenagers and families whose lives and cultures collide in a fictional 21st century Northern town. The DVD 3-Disc Set features 12 episodes, plus bonus behind-the-scenes featurettes ($59.99, Amazon.com). Ackley Bridge, Series 2 made its U.S. premiere in September 2018 on Acorn TV. Called a“glorious streaming service… an essential must-have” (The Hollywood Reporter), Acorn TV is North America’s most popular streaming service focused on British and international television from RLJ Entertainment, Inc. and AMC Networks.

It’s the start of a new term at Ackley Bridge, and lives and cultures are still colliding at this high school that integrated a community of white and Pakistani residents. Smart student Nasreen (Amy-Leigh HickmanEastEnders) tries to hide her sexuality behind a sham engagement, while her best friend, Missy (Poppy Lee FriarMr Selfridge), must shoulder the burdens of her drug-addict mother. Free-spirited English teacher Emma (Liz WhiteLife on Mars) embarks on an affair with a married staff member, and headmistress Mandy (Jo JoynerEastEnders) introduces a strict academic regime that infuriates staff and students alike.

Funny and poignant, this award-winning drama offers an “entertaining look at contemporary, multiracial Britain” (Boston Herald). The excellent ensemble cast also includes Paul Nicholls (Law & Order: UK), Adil Ray (Citizen Khan), Arsher Ali (The Missing),Samuel Bottomley (Wolf Hall), and Sunetra Sarker (Broadchurch).

Street Date: February 12, 2019                                       SRP: $59.99
DVD 3-Disc Set: 12 episodes – Approx. 576 min., plus bonus – SDH Subtitles – UPC 054961266593
Bonus: Series 1 recap (5 min.) and behind-the-scenes featurettes (37 min.)

My Thoughts

Ackley Bridge is a new series about a small Yorkshire town. Two schools merge and white and Pakistani teens have to learn to work together. The transition does not go easily for the kids or the teachers as they come to terms with their differences. This second season includes twelve episodes.  


Sham - Nasreen tries to hide her sexuality by getting engaged. Enrollment & grades are down at the school.

Dad - Jordan wants to pay for half Jamie's christening but can't come up with enough cash. Missy has dealings with a loan shark.

The Single Life - Kaneez is enjoying single life. Samir and Emma try to get the Pakistani kids to try out for the drama club.

Channeling Anger - Samir feels guilty for cheating. Nas goes out on a date,  but it doesn't go well.

Someone to Talk To - Nas turns to internet dating, but his new love may not be what she seems. Emma ties to come to terms with her grief and a rugby scout comes to see Cory.

She is Fierce - Missy gets angry when she hears gossip about Hayley and Riz. Emma disappears which could ruin the play for the drama club.

Chicken - Nasreen enjoys a fling with Sam but their different backgrounds may make the relationship impossible. The new deputy head wants to start a LGBT support group.

The Family Way - Mandy learns she's pregnant and her abusive father makes an appearance. Razia takes drastic measures with Riz.

What Goes Around - Alya catches Cory at a food bank, but her family has money problems, too. Nas gets caught between his sister and his girlfriend.

The Truth Is... - Naveed is struggling with his comedy and his parents are furious about the fake engagement. Rashid takes Emma out since Kaneez refuses to commit.

Drastic Measures - Missy wants to start a family. Emma tries to end Chloe's relationship because she disagrees with it.

Exams - The kids are getting ready for exams and the prom. They school is having financial woes. Jordan tries to find his mother.

I really enjoyed this show. I may relate to it on a different level because my half-brother is Pakistani. We met late in life, and have learned to embrace each other's differences. I see this community working to grow in the community in the same way. The series has a great premise and lots of drama to keep it interesting. If you'd like to grab a copy for yourself, its available now on Acorn Media or on Amazon.





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