Amazon.co.uk Review
One of a growing number of female-centred dramas, the first series of
Cutting It was a sleeper hit for the BBC. Though its rival hairdresser premise seems fluffy, its classy gloss, off-beat scripting and strong cast make it as addictive as many of the outstanding TV series coming from the US. The drama unfolds when ambitious hairdresser Allie Henshall (Sarah Parish) wants to open a second salon. But her husband and business partner would prefer to start a family. Even when she puts in a bid for a property opposite her salon, Allie is beaten by rival hairdresser Mia Bevan (Amanda Holden). As a business war begins between Allie's Henshall Ferraday salon and Mia's Blade Runner, Allie has to overcome the reappearance of an old flame, Mia's husband, who is happy to rekindle his relationship with her.
As the relationship histories among the characters become absurdly intertwined, it is to the cast's credit that the human dynamics of the story surpass its plot. Though there are certainly moments of parody (take Mia's yogic warm-ups with her staff each morning) and questionable twists, Cutting It gives its leading ladies some sharp and funny lines to work with and the space to do so. Both Parish and Holden run the gamut of emotions despite the seemingly clear-cut good woman / bitch divide between their characters initially. Their actions may strain the limits of credibility, but these women hold attention effortlessly. --Laura Bushell
Special Features
Exclusive cast interviews with Sarah Parish and Amanda Holden
Behind the scenes featurette
Audio commentary with the writer Debbie Horsfield on Episode 1
Hilarious "wrap tape" and outtakes
Gallery
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