Danny Dyer – and Rivals – aren’t above the soaps, actually

As a longtime connoisseur of both highbrow and lowbrow entertainment, I must say that Danny Dyer‘s performance in Rivals has left me thoroughly enthralled. The soap snobs who dismiss soaps as mere fluff need to open their eyes and appreciate the captivating blend of camp, sensual slapstick, and Carry On charm that these shows offer.

Viewers watching the much-awaited Disney+ version of Jilly Cooper’s 1988 novel “Rivals,” a well-known romantic drama, have been commending Danny Dyer for his performance.

In the show “Rivals,” Danny Dyer plays Freddie Jones, and it’s set in 1986, delving into the ruthless television production industry. One viewer on X commented enthusiastically: “Danny Dyer is a joy to watch in Rivals; bring us more of this character, please, avoid putting him back in soaps or football-related productions.

This soap snobbery ignores that Rivals presents a captivating, quintessentially camp blend of the Kardashians and Emmerdale’s Tate family – it has soap in its DNA; it’s sensual slapstick with a bit of Barbara Windsor’s Carry On charm.

Over time, soaps are now closely associated with compelling narratives and characters that strike a chord with viewers from different age groups.

From the set of EastEnders to the cobbles of Coronation Street, soaps have perfected a formula which clearly influences Rivals. Even though that must stick in the throat of some diehard soap snobs, TV, it seems, cannot be mere fluff or a bit of fun; it has to be something altogether more substantial and worthwhile.

But this notion fails to take into account that soaps are substantial in the way that they live and breathe beyond mere entertainment. There is no shame in inviting audiences to come and get close to a world of pure heightened imagination: frivolous, nonsensical, camp.

And in fairness, a Jilly Cooper “bonkbuster” hardly seems more highbrow, substantial or “worthy” – that comes from a place of deep affection and respect, to be clear: in a world where it often feels like we have to care and care deeply, about every push notification and talking point, where anxiety is being trodden ever deeper into every groove of our brain, it’s right that we are fed, and experience, some simple escapism.

The snobbery was even present in Rivals producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins’s experience when he was trying to get the show made.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’ve always been open about my admiration for the captivating world of soap operas, especially EastEnders. My dedication to this show is not just because it’s a hit, but also due to the influence of an author who, unfortunately, has been met with some condescension – Jilly Cooper. Over the years, I’ve found myself advocating for her work, only to be met with laughter and ridicule by my peers in the industry.

Danny Dyer – and Rivals – aren’t above the soaps, actually

This elitism often overlooks the fact that soap operas play a substantial role within the industry, providing jobs for both on-screen and off-screen talent, fostering devoted audiences, and tackling real-world issues head-on.

Numerous well-known actors, such as Danny Dyer, have gained advantages from appearing on soap operas. The distinctive atmosphere of soap productions provides performers with a broad range of skills, enabling them to hone their acting abilities and showcase their talents in a public and frequently intense environment.

Furthermore, the esteemed careers of actresses such as Margot Robbie and Sarah Lancashire, along with numerous writers, producers, and directors, demonstrate soap operas’ significant value as a training ground. It is reasonable to assume that many current industry stars may not have gained their footing without the fundamental experiences they received from soap operas.

2024-10-23 14:34

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