Review: LOVE IN THE LOCKDOWN, The Telling (Online)

Love in the Lockdown is the latest piece of work from writer and musician Clare Norburn and tells the story of two potential lovers during the lockdown, and the complications of dating via Zoom in a mini TV soap-style format.

The series is compiled of nine short 15-20 minute episodes. The first was released on 4 March and the last on 23 May, with the most prominent episode on 23 March matching with the day that the UK was plunged into lockdown.

The characters Giovanni and Emilia, played by Alec Newman and Rachel Stirling, are more than likable enough to hold and carry the storyline. Jon Culshaw also does a fantastic turn as Boris Johnson, with Leila Mimmack taking on the role of Venetia.

Norburn’s music ensemble The Telling provide musical interludes, who are also a tool used to help progress the story. There is no doubt that they are a talented bunch of musicians and they are used almost like a Greek chorus. 

Giovanni and Emilia have met the night before at a dinner party and have a tentative Zoom date, with the virus looming in the background. As the episodes progress, as it did in reality, the virus becomes more prominent. Their relationship evolves around a discussion on Boccaccio’s Decameron, a collection of stories from the 14th century plague. They decide to collaborate on creating a piece of work revolving around this. But of course, there are some bumps in the road with their relationship.

The piece occasionally feels a little stop/start at times, and whilst the use of the musicians is a good storytelling device, it sometimes feels like they interject at the wrong time. The use of Zoom is novel and apt to the piece and what they are trying to portray but lacks a little finesse to make it a really great piece. 

The acting from Newman and Stirling is authentic and sincere, and they keep the audience’s interest, leaving you wanting to pursue the story further. Mimmack as agent Venetia is compelling and almost has the ability to steal the show with her brief but humorous cameos. 

The episodes, though released in the bitesize pieces, do also flow well if watching in one sitting, and the pieces are on YouTube for anyone wanting to watch. 

***’ Three and a half stars

Reviewed by: Emma Littler

For more information about the series and to watch the episodes, please click here.