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What to watch this week: ‘Legends’ hits the mark as Pride month programming begins

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The new Netflix series 'Legends' follows British customs inspectors infiltrating the 1990s drug trade.
  • The show is praised for its suspense and contrasts the mundane work of officers with their dangerous undercover missions.
  • Pride month programming on Israeli platforms includes documentaries about LGBTQ+ relationships and experiences.

The new Netflix series 'Legends' offers a compelling look at British customs inspectors who went undercover in the 1990s drug trade, a story largely unknown outside the UK. The series is lauded as a welcome exception to the often mediocre crime dramas available, drawing comparisons to 'The Wire' and the film 'Traffic.'

'Legends' effectively contrasts the routine, often tedious work of Liverpool customs officers with the high-stakes, daredevil exploits of those selected for a secret mission. The opportunity arises when a notice appears in their breakroom asking, "Could You Offer More?" The series stars Steve Coogan as Don, the leader of this newly formed unit, and Tom Burke as Guy, a military veteran seeking excitement.

Members of the unit discover hidden talents, excelling in financial tracking, surveillance, or building trust with informants. They face immense pressure to deliver results quickly, as Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher sought high-profile arrests to demonstrate her government's tough stance on drug crime and the burgeoning opioid epidemic. This creates inherent tension between government officials and the agents risking their lives.

In parallel, the article notes programming for Pride Month on Israeli platforms. Yes Docu and Yes VOD are featuring "My Boyfriend the Fascist," exploring political differences within a relationship, and "UnNamed," which delves into the aftermath of a 2009 attack on the Tel Aviv LGBTQ+ association. Additionally, a documentary about the band Boy George & Culture Club is set to air.

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Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.