Steven Knight’s new drama captures the 1980s midlands music scene but faces criticism over Brummie’s accent authenticity
The debut of BBC‘s latest drama, “This Town,” created by “Peaky Blinders” mastermind Steven Knight, has sparked a wave of reactions from viewers. While the series opener garnered interest for its portrayal of the 1980s music scene in the Midlands, it also drew notable criticism regarding the authenticity of the Birmingham accents.
“This Town,” a six-episode series, unfolds the narrative of an extended family and a cadre of youths embroiled in the dynamic music environment of the Midlands. Despite being filmed in various locales across Birmingham, Coventry, and the Black Country, the series has been scrutinized by viewers who argue that the actors’ accents do not genuinely represent the local dialect.
On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), audiences expressed their frustrations. One user commented, “#ThisTown when are Birmingham-based TV dramas going to cast actual Brummies? Not people from Coventry or surrounding areas because the accents are so forced and sound stupid… we ain’t from the Black Country!!” This sentiment was echoed by others who noted geographical inaccuracies and unconvincing dialect portrayals, highlighting a common critique in British television of failing to accurately capture regional accents.
Despite these grievances, “This Town” offers a nostalgic journey into the Midlands’ past, characterized by its vibrant music scene and complex family dynamics. The cast, including alumni from “Downton Abbey,” “Marcella,” and “My Policeman,” delivers performances that resonate with the era’s spirit and turmoil. However, the accent issue remains a glaring concern for viewers seeking authenticity in regional representation.
The series continues to air on BBC One, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer. As “This Town” progresses, it remains to be seen whether the show can overcome its initial criticisms to win over viewers fully, or if the accent controversy will overshadow its narrative achievements. Fans and critics alike will undoubtedly watch closely, gauging whether this dramatic portrayal can truly capture the essence of Birmingham and its storied cultural history
