20a. Tenko

An A to Z of UK Television Drama

What else could it be for the letter T than Tenko? Once again, Andy wrote a comprehensive book on the series ‘Remembering Tenko’ and considers the series to be one of the greatest ever made. Martin likes it too, but perhaps not so rabidly as his co-host. Together they explore this drama which charted the fortunes of women prisoners of the Japanese during World War II over 3 series and 30 episodes from 1981 to 1984 and became a runaway success for the BBC. As well as covering its creation and the crucial roles of Lavinia Warner, Jill Hyem and Anne Valery, they examine three episodes in particular, picking out key performances, action and themes: the aftermath of Blanche’s escape from Series 1, the events leading up to Sally’s suicide in Series 2, and Dorothy coming to terms with all that has happened to her and who she is in her final episode in Series 3. They also talk about shopping channels, Martin's radio show and how Tenko passes three important tests with flying colours: Bechdel, Makomori, and Sexy Lamp. Find out more in today's episode. Next Time (35 years on since its first broadcast to the day): Tenko Reunion.