Dal Y Mellt is S4C’s new TV venture that is sure to leave audience members hooked. A six-episode drama series with a splash of comedy, the show follows a young delinquent named Carbo (played by newcomer Gwion Morris Jones) getting caught up in a scheme devised by the secretive forces of a north Wales family.
Based on Iwan ‘Iwcs’ Roberts’ novel of the same name, it’s evident that the creative crew researched the text extensively in order to do it justice. The series was filmed in numerous locations across Wales, as well as in London and on the Wales-Ireland ferry, resulting in a show that seeks to bridge the gaps between the rural and urban landscapes of our country.
It’s difficult to theorise where the series will go after the first episode. Several characters, locations and themes are introduced, yet all done in a way that leaves the viewer with more questions than they started with. Although this may seem all over the place, it actually makes the series incredibly bingeworthy as you strive to decipher the dynamics and drama that are implemented in Dal Y Mellt. Despite numerous scenes concerning a character’s tragic bowel issues, the first episode was a great debut for this series.
Sunday night drama series have become increasingly popular, particularly those from the BBC, but S4C has created a worthy opponent for the attention of these viewers. With a highly experienced cast that brings so much life to their characters, an original soundtrack that beautifully accompanies every scene, and a story that pulls you in even after just one episode, Dal Y Mellt will certainly entertain.
Dal Y Mellt is released on S4C, Sun 2 Oct, 9pm. It’ll also be available as a boxset on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer.
words RHIANNON FARR
