The Capture Review

In my last newsletter, I highlighted where we really are with AI video generation—and the truth is, it’s still a long way off from what most people think.

So reviewing The Capture feels timely.

Now in its second series, the show explores the concept of deepfakes—taking things further in Season 2 with fakery happening in real time, even on live TV. The truth? We’re nowhere near that level yet.

That said, I really enjoyed the series. The story’s gripping, the production values are strong, and it’s a solid binge if you like tech-driven thrillers. Though I do think the title doesn’t quite reflect what the show’s about.

Here’s what the AI critic had to say after scraping reviews:

The Capture stands out as a compelling British thriller that delves into the unsettling possibilities of manipulated media and surveillance. Its strong performances and timely subject matter have resonated with both critics and audiences, despite some criticisms around plausibility and narrative execution.

If you’re into this genre, you might also enjoy Bodyguard or Line of Duty.

You can read my full post on the reality of A.I. Video on my blog or in my LinkedIn Alt Media newsletter. To get my posts in your inbox every Friday, visit my Substack

The Capture Synopsis

The Capture is a British thriller series that delves into the complexities of surveillance and the manipulation of evidence in the digital age. The narrative follows Detective Inspector Rachel Carey as she investigates cases involving deepfake technology and misinformation, raising questions about the reliability of visual evidence and the nature of truth.

Original Channel and Premiere Date

• Channel: BBC One
• Premiere Date: 3 September 2019

Key Creatives

• Writer: Ben Chanan
• Director: Ben Chanan
• Production Companies: Heyday Television, BBC, Universal International Studios

Cast

• Holliday Grainger as DCI Rachel Carey
  • Notable Works: Strike, The Borgias
• Callum Turner as Shaun Emery (Season 1)
  • Notable Works: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, War & Peace
• Paapa Essiedu as Isaac Turner (Season 2)
  • Notable Works: I May Destroy You, Gangs of London
• Ben Miles as Commander Danny Hart
  • Notable Works: The Crown, V for Vendetta
• Lia Williams as DSU Gemma Garland
  • Notable Works: The Crown, The Missing

Next Episode Information

As of April 2025, The Capture has been renewed for a third season, with filming scheduled to commence in spring 2025. Specific release dates and the expected release schedule are yet to be announced.