The Final Cut (1995)

"Francis Urquhart" (Ian Richardson) is he now pretty unassailable as his Premiership welcomes a new King and he looks to establish some sort of legacy to eclipse even that of his inspirational predecessor. That opportunity comes when he involves the UK in negotiations to solve the problems on the island of Cyprus. This task has added poignancy for him as that's where he served in the army. It's the sudden defection of his foreign secretary (Paul Freeman) not just from his government but from his party that points to a chink in his armour. Instinctively, he is inclined to just swat this man away - like so many others he had summarily dealt with, but this isn't so easy. It's not just his political future that is suddenly a bit rocky, but also his reminiscences of times and experiences on the island that clearly were not without trauma and tragedy. Though outwardly as assuring and supportive as ever, his wife "Elizabeth" (Diane Fletcher) is aware that he is faltering, and is probably even more determined that he shall leave a legacy, even if it's not quite the one he is planning. This is a solid political drama, well written and superbly presented by an actor who now owns this part. For me, though, this story is a bit weaker and the plotting less effective than in the earlier two series and that does rather rob "Urquhart" of his sense of manipulating evil that he imbued so well. I think I'd have preferred this to finish without looking to an eventuality without him in power. A valediction of his scurrilous and enthralling behaviour would have suited me fine! The sharpness has gone and it's not so powerful a drama, but still a good watch.