This humane NHS Coronavirus drama speaks volumes from behind the mask.

Why should we have to go through all of that again on screen wasnt once enough?

Its a clear-eyed depiction of a regrettable sh*tshow.

Joanne Froggatt in Breathtaking

Without overstatement, the drama makes it clear that this isnt a battle being fought on only one front.

Theres the virus, and then theres the volley of untruths and unscientific bravado coming from above.

Suspected cases of Covid-19 without a history of travel arent tested.

Personal protective equipment is only available to those working in hot zones because Covid-19 hasnt breached cold zones…

When the need for PPE is downgraded, nobody will admit that its due to a shortage.

These events simply play out on screen without comment.

Theres no need to adorn them to drive home a message.

The combination is message enough.

Simply laying out the experience from Abbeys perspective is enough to lay bare the shameful inadequacies.

Importantly, the inadequacy isnt the only story being told theres also one about human connection and decency.

Importantly, blame doesnt feel like the goal here.

Breathtakingairs on ITV1 at 9pm on Monday March 19, Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21.

Rating:

4 out of 5