Netflix offers a hidden gem in the form of an Idris Elba mini-series that fans have described as ‘entertaining and refreshing’.
Idris Elba is widely recognized for his role in the BBC psychological crime thriller Luther.
Recently, Netflix has included one of his 2013 films, which has been labeled as ‘irresistible fun’, to its extensive library.
However, there is a lesser-known mini-series featuring Elba in a more lighthearted and different role.
This eight-part series premiered in 2019, so it might have gone unnoticed by some viewers.
For those keen to see more of the Golden Globe awardee, this series is strongly recommended by fans.
The narrative centers on Idris Elba as Charlie, a struggling DJ whose career has stalled.
Upon reconnecting with his celebrity actor friend David (played by JJ Feild from Captain America: The First Avenger) at a wedding, Charlie is given a final opportunity for redemption. This opportunity, however, hinges on his willingness to become the nanny to David’s spoiled daughter Gabrielle (portrayed by Frankie Hervey from His Dark Materials).
As Charlie takes on the childcare responsibilities, he rekindles his love for music and learns about maturity, while Gabrielle learns to open up to someone new.
The cast is rounded out by Yellowstone’s Piper Perabo, Man Like Mobeen’s Guz Khan, Giri/Haji’s Nicki Vickery, Dune: Prophecy’s Jade Anouka, and The Wives’ Angela Griffin.
The show is called Turn Up Charlie, and it is currently available on Netflix.
According to review site Rotten Tomatoes, the series has received mixed feedback from both fans and critics.
Audiences gave it a solid rating of 88 percent, whereas critics rated it 52 percent based on 42 reviews.
“Poor writing and predictable plot twists dampen Turn Up Charlie’s fun premise,” the critics’ consensus states. “But those looking for a breezy sitcom starring the perennially cool Idris Elba may find themselves tapping along to its good-natured beats.”
Fans, on the other hand, were delighted to see Elba in a different type of role.
“This show is gold!” one fan commented. “And so are Idris’s songs… absolute bangers.”
“Beautiful. Relatable,” another social media user remarked. “Great character development… I can’t recommend this enough.”
Expressing disappointment with the critical reviews, they added: “I’m really disappointed with the critical response.”
“Refreshing and very entertaining,” another viewer stated. “Idris Elba does a phenomenal job throughout this series and love the British elements of the humor.”
The series was set for a second season but was unfortunately canceled in April 2020.
All good things must come to an end, it seems…
Turn Up Charlie is currently available for streaming on Netflix.