Small Town, Big Story: Riding the Alpaca with Paddy in the latest Sky Series.

2 Mar

It’s not every day you get to review a Sky series where the lead is kind of, sort of, someone you know—because he’s from Winshill and, oh yeah, he’s been in Game of Thrones.

Small Town, Big Story could just as easily be the title of Paddy Considine’s autobiography—and with both his and writer-director Chris O’Dowd’s roots woven into the narrative, the show becomes an intriguing watch for all sorts of reasons.

This brand new comedy-drama series has sparked a spectrum of reactions from critics and audiences alike. The show follows Wendy Patterson (Christina Hendricks), a Los Angeles-based TV producer who returns to her Irish hometown of Drumbán to shoot a new series, despite her mansplaining colleagues.

Her arrival stirs up old relationships, particularly with her former flame, Dr. Séamus Proctor (Paddy Considine), the town’s very patient GP.

Drumbán itself is inspired by Chris O’Dowd’s mother’s hometown, located just outside Boyle, Ireland. This personal connection adds authenticity to the small-town dynamics portrayed in the series.

“When I was thinking about a place to set the show, I wanted somewhere small that was more like a village. I imagined my mother’s home, which is 10 miles or so outside Boyle. I’d shot Moone Boy in Boyle and I always wanted to go back. What I found funny, while filming Moone Boy, was people from the town and passers-by walking around in their best clothes or with more make-up on, just in case they were caught on camera.”

— Chris O'Dowd - Irish Times

Critical Reception

The series has been praised for its sharp dialogue and rich character development. The Guardian noted that it “takes on better shape and heft around the question of how much we need to be believed and how cruel the world – and parents – can be.” However, some critics have highlighted tonal inconsistencies. The Times called it “perfectly jolly to watch” but admitted it “does meander,” suggesting some viewers may not be clamoring for a second season. (I personally disagree.)

Christina Hendricks’ Performance: A Tale of Two Wendys

One of the standout elements of the show is Christina Hendricks’ contrasting performance. In Los Angeles, her Wendy is cold, calculating, and defensive, battling against a misogynistic TV industry filled with male egos. She operates with precision, building walls to protect herself in an environment where vulnerability is a weakness. Something you learn she shaped as a young Wendy.

However, once back in Drumbán, we see those walls begin to melt away. While she remains bitter about how Dr. Séamus treated her in the past, her warmth becomes more visible, especially in moments of reconnection with the town and its people. It’s a gradual shift, making her emotional journey one of the most compelling aspects of the series.

“I wanted to portray a character dealing with trauma and the fear of ridicule.”

— Paddy Considine

This thematic depth adds an emotional undercurrent to the show’s comedy, giving it more weight than a typical small-town sitcom.

Final Thoughts

Small Town, Big Story blends humour (I giggled more than usual at the telly) with drama, delivering really strong performances and thoughtful character work. The interplay of personal histories and comedic moments creates a compelling watch.

Looking forward to a second series 🛸