Ashes to Ashes is the sequel to the critically acclaimed series “Life on Mars“. Returning to “Gene Hunt’s” world, this time the viewer visits 80s London. Blending elements of science fiction, and crime drama, the series explores themes of memory, trauma, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. Like it’s predecessor, all while paying homage to the iconic culture and music of the era.

The premise of the series revolves around Detective Inspector Alex Drake (played by Keeley Hawes), a criminal psychologist from 2008. In the first episode, she is shot during a police investigation, and instead of dying, she wakes up in 1981 London. Much like Sam Tyler, the protagonist of “Life on Mars,” Alex believes she is in a coma and that her experience in the 1980s is a product of her unconscious mind. Her primary goal is to find a way back to her own time, while also trying to unravel the mystery of why she has been sent to this specific moment in history.

Upon waking in 1981, Alex finds herself working at the Fenchurch East police station, where she is teamed up with DCI Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister), a brash, no-nonsense detective who embodies a rough-and-tumble approach to policing that was emblematic of the era. Gene is joined by fellow “Life on Mars” characters, DS Ray Carling (Dean Andrews) and DC Chris Skelton (Marshall Lancaster),  who mature considerably through this series.  Hunt’s methods often clash with Alex’s modern sensibilities, creating tension but also a compelling dynamic between the two characters.

The 1980s backdrop allows “Ashes to Ashes” to explore the social and political climate of the time, including issues like police corruption, the rise of Thatcherism, and the changing role of women in the workplace. The show also features a killer soundtrack, while the club scene is explored, as well as the crazy makeup of the era. Including hits from David Bowie, Duran Duran, and The Clash it’s a musical time capsule for viewers.

The show must be watched after the original series “Life on Mars” and to it’s conclusion. It culminates in a third and final season, which ties together many of the mysteries that have been building since the first series. The ending is both surprising and thought-provoking, offering a satisfying conclusion to the overarching narrative.  Not to be missed, but also not to be rushed. The conclusion is powerful because of the character development across the two series.

A remarkable expansion on the original series’ themes with its own identity. Its mix of nostalgia, psychological drama, and crime procedural elements make it a unique and compelling show. Whether you’re a fan of 1980s pop culture or drawn to complex, character-driven stories, “Ashes to Ashes” offers something for a broad range of viewers. Through its innovative storytelling and memorable characters, it stands as one of the BBC’s finest dramas.

 Life on Mars was also made into a Korean Drama

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Korean Life on Mars is the South Korean remake of popular British series by the same name.   It’s a television drama that blends elements of science fiction, crime, and psychological thriller genres. Directed by Lee Jung-hyo, it aired on OCN and became notable for its gripping narrative, strong performances, and the seamless way it wove together the elements of a crime procedural with time travel.

The story follows Han Tae-joo (played by Jung Kyung-ho), a modern-day detective with an analytical mind. He relies heavily on evidence and logical reasoning in his investigations. While chasing down a serial killer, he is involved in a mysterious accident. Tae-joo wakes up to find himself transported back to the year 1988, a time when the methods of crime-solving lacked the forensic precision he was accustomed to.

In 1988, Tae-joo is thrust into a world where technology is primitive, and the rules of policing are vastly different. He joins a police force led by the rough-and-ready Kang Dong-chul (played by Park Sung-woong), who relies more on gut instinct and old-school methods. The team also includes the righteous Yoon Na-young (played by Go Ah-sung), and the rookie Lee Yong-gi (played by Oh Dae-hwan). Together, they navigate the criminal underworld of the late 1980s, while Tae-joo struggles to find a way back to his time.

Korea Life on Mars stands out as a successful adaptation of the original British series, while adding its own unique flair through cultural and historical nuances specific to South Korea in the late 1980s. Set in the year of the Olympics. The drama does an excellent job of capturing the retro aesthetic of the era, from the fashion and vehicles to the police procedural methods, giving the show a distinct nostalgic charm. And while the story lines run parallel to the original series, they have their own unique twist. Characters are slightly different too, unique in both personality and from a cultural perspective to the BBC production.

The show also excels in its pacing and plot development. Each episode presents a new case for the team to solve, but the overarching mystery of Tae-joo’s predicament is carefully unraveled throughout the series. This balance between episodic storytelling and serialized narrative keeps the audience engaged, eager to discover the truth behind Tae-joo’s time travel.

The production of Korea Life on Mars involved meticulous attention to detail to accurately recreate the late 1980s. The props, sets, and costumes were all designed to reflect the era, providing a rich and immersive experience for the audience. The cast reportedly underwent extensive preparation to embody the attitudes and behaviors of the time, with particular focus on the differences in police work between 1988 and 2018.

Korean Life on mars continues

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“Life on Mars,” is a compelling blend of crime drama and science fiction. It explores a unique narrative where a modern-day detective finds himself transported back to the 1970s. The 2006 BBC series begins with Sam Tyler (John Simm), a detective in contemporary Manchester. Tyler while investigating a string of violent crimes, is hit by a car and wakes up to find himself in 1973. He is now working under the command of the brash and unconventional DCI Gene Hunt, portrayed with charisma and intensity by Philip Glenister.

“Life on Mars” brings to life the 1970s environment with extreme attention to detail and well placed era music. The show examines the changes in attitudes and what is socially acceptable by juxtaposing Tyler’s modern identity and memories with the 1970s realities that he had to deal with. Tyler’s modern sensibilities and psychological trauma clash with the retro attitudes and methods of the 1970s police force. The show is both a tribute to and a critique of the period’s social and political atmosphere, exploring themes of morality, justice, and identity.

“Life on Mars” stands out for its innovative storytelling and strong character development. The chemistry between Simm and Glenister is outstanding. John Simm’s portrayal of Sam Tyler is particularly noteworthy. His performance captures the emotional turmoil of a man caught between two worlds, and his struggles to adapt to the 1970s’ social norms are both poignant and relatable. Simm’s nuanced acting brings depth to a character who is both a product of his time and a relic of modernity.  Philip Glenister’s DCI Gene Hunt is a force to be reckoned with. His portrayal of the tough, often politically incorrect detective is both humorous and chilling. Glenister’s dynamic presence creates a perfect foil to Tyler’s more introspective character.

“Life on Mars” also benefits from its sharp writing and engaging plot twists. The series explores complex themes, including the nature of reality and the impact of time travel on one’s psyche. The blend of crime drama with speculative elements keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each new revelation.  The series went on for 2 seasons and it’s fan base led to a continuation of Gene Hunt’s world in the 80s centered series Ashes to Ashes which ran for 3 seasons, saw a carryover of several Life on Mars characters and eventually gave audiences closure on the nature of the time travel involved. 

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