It Even Hurts To Watch (Press, 11 September 1987)

The television series "Intimate Contact," which aired in September 1987, tackles the subject of AIDS within the context of the lives of the affluent in England. The programme portrays a world dominated by yuppies who embody a lifestyle of wealth and status, often discussing politics and business while engaging in leisure activities like croquet. The central character, played by Daniel Massey, is a middle-aged executive grappling with the reality of having contracted AIDS through a sexual encounter, a narrative that hints at a more complex orientation in his personal life. Massey’s character is supported by a strong performance from Claire Bloom, who plays his shocked wife. Bloom’s portrayal is marked by her ageless presence and a nuanced demeanor that conveys a sense of emotional restraint. Her character’s struggle with maintaining appearances in the wake of crisis adds depth to the narrative, reflecting societal pressures and personal turmoil. As the series unfolds, it delves into the emotional weight of the disease and its implications within a privileged society that is generally self-absorbed and disconnected from the realities of illness. The storyline presents a grim and realistic depiction of the impact of AIDS, contrasting with the often sanitised and melodramatic portrayals common in television. The narrative provokes its characters, and by extension, its viewers, to confront uncomfortable truths about their values and the fragility of their social structures. The tone of "Intimate Contact" has been compared to the unsettling atmosphere of "The Day After," suggesting that while it is not an easy watch, it is compelling enough that viewers are likely to continue despite its harrowing content. The series encourages reflection on themes of societal complacency and individual morality, particularly as it addresses how its characters deal with the stigma surrounding AIDS. Despite the challenges presented, some of the characters, particularly Bloom's, are portrayed as maintaining a facade, illustrating the tension between external appearances and internal realities. The show has stirred diverse reactions, with some describing it as both gripping and disturbing. It raises questions about the emotional and societal barriers people construct in response to crisis, leaving audiences to ponder the ensuing complexities in their own lives. As the story progresses, it teases the potential for confessions and emotional breakdowns, suggesting a deeper exploration of human experiences and relationships. Overall, "Intimate Contact" positions itself as a poignant social commentary that dissects the often superficial layers of affluence, revealing the underlying fears and challenges posed by AIDS in a contemporary society. The first hour of the series has left viewers anticipating the coming episodes with a mixture of reluctance and intrigue, uncertain about the potentially devastating reprisal of suppressed emotions and societal truths.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand