The BBC drama "The Rapture" has drawn sharp criticism in a one-star review, which labels the series an "anti-Christian BBC conspiracy drama" that is both "unconvincing and shoddy." The review, published by TV critic Christopher Stevens, asserts that the state broadcaster appears to view Christianity as a platform for "anti-science nutjobs and fundamentalists."
The series features Sam Hazeldine as Leonard Krall, a US-style evangelist who amasses followers by encouraging prayer and unity. The reviewer identifies Krall as a villain, noting his skepticism towards the "so-called climate crisis" and his belief that "They want to keep us in a doom loop. We can’t just enjoy the sunshine. Apparently, we have to fear it."
Krall's teenage daughter, Bethany, portrayed by India Ria Amarteifio, is depicted as being in a psychiatric hospital after allegedly murdering her mother. Bethany maintains her innocence but is described as behaving like an "obnoxious, arrogant teenager." She experiences visions of biblical apocalypses, including one of Christ with half his face torn away. The review points out that a freak storm later damages a 90-foot statue of Jesus in Lisbon, mirroring one of Bethany's visions.
The critic questions whether the BBC would produce a similar drama about an Islamic figure, suggesting that "mobs on the streets" would ensue and actors would be hesitant to participate due to potential backlash.
"The Rapture" is a five-part series. Ruth Madeley plays Dr. Gabrielle Fox, a clinical psychologist and one of Bethany's patients, who begins to seek new evidence in the case. The review highlights perceived plot inconsistencies, such as lax hospital security allowing Bethany to assault Dr. Fox, steal a weapon, and escape. It also notes continuity errors in the portrayal of a journalist character.
The review also briefly mentions a climate change documentary, "Force Of Nature" on ITV1, where two cheetahs survived a river crossing only for one to be killed by a lion, framing it as an example of "bad luck."