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The Thick of It 2005

★ 8.1/10 · 218 votes TV-MA Comedy 4 seasons · 21 eps Ended
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Quick answer

What is The Thick of It?

The Thick of It is a television series centered on the inner workings of government power and political spin. The narrative focuses on the Minister for Social Affairs as he navigates the pressures of his office.

Type
TV series
Year
2005
Status
Ended
Episodes
21
Runtime
30 minutes
First aired
May 19, 2005
Last aired
Oct 20, 2012
Original language
EN
Origin
GB
Networks
BBC Four, BBC Two
Genres
Comedy
Updated
Availability by region

Where to watch

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Planning tool

How long to binge?

Estimate the schedule using 21 episodes and an average 30-minute runtime.

Trailer

Overview

The Thick of It is a television series centered on the inner workings of government power and political spin. The narrative focuses on the Minister for Social Affairs as he navigates the pressures of his office. Throughout the series, the Minister faces persistent harassment from the policy enforcer representing Number 10. His ability to manage his responsibilities is further complicated by his reliance on a team of civil servants who prove to be not entirely reliable. The show explores the chaotic environment within these corridors of power, highlighting the ongoing tension between the Minister and the various figures tasked with shaping policy and managing public image. By detailing the interactions between the Minister, his staff, and the enforcer from Number 10, the program illustrates the difficulties inherent in maintaining control within a high-stakes political setting. The series examines the dynamics of this professional relationship, emphasizing the Minister's struggle to function effectively while being surrounded by an unpredictable team and constant external pressure from the central government authority.

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Should you watch it?

“A sharp satire of British government dysfunction and spin.”

Reasons to watch
  • Brilliantly written political satire
  • Peter Capaldi's foul-mouthed performance
  • Sharp dialogue and ensemble cast
Keep in mind
  • Limited to 4 series
  • May be too cynical for some viewers

You enjoy intelligent political satire with biting humor.

Contains strong language and cynical portrayals of politics, suitable for mature audiences.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 3 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 3 episodes
Season 3 · 8 episodes
Season 4 · 7 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Who created The Thick of It?

The series was created, co-written and directed by Armando Iannucci.

When did The Thick of It air?

It originally aired in 2005 and continued until 2012, spanning four series.

What is the show about?

It satirizes the inner workings of British government through the struggles of a minister and his civil service team.

Where was it broadcast?

The show originally aired on BBC Four and later moved to BBC Two.

How many episodes are there?

The series consists of 23 episodes across four series.