Hostage, the new Netflix series, delivers a tense political thriller with a deeply personal edge. The story centres on British prime minister Abigail Dalton (played by Suranne Jones), whose husband is kidnapped during a visit of the French president to the UK. This shocking event sets off a high-stakes blackmail scheme and diplomatic crisis.

From the outset, Hostage establishes its gripping atmosphere through tight, claustrophobic camera angles that heighten the sense of danger and confinement. Close-ups linger on the characters’ faces, capturing every flicker of emotion, while handheld shots add an urgent, documentary-style realism that pulls viewers into the unfolding chaos. The dimly lit interiors and cold, muted colour palette mirror the chilling stakes of political power under siege.

Jones gives a powerful, commanding performance as Dalton, a prime minister who is fierce, ruthless and utterly determined. Her character embodies the weight of leadership when everything is on the line, both politically and personally. Jones’ portrayal brings warmth and complexity to a woman balancing love, duty and danger.

Opposite Jones, Julie Delpy plays French president Vivienne Toussaint with sharp wit and layered complexity. Delpy’s character wrestles with political compromise, navigating pressures from the far right and the challenges of maintaining principles in turbulent times. Their on-screen dynamic is expertly framed, capturing the charged interplay and unspoken tensions between two powerful women. This adds rich texture to the unfolding drama.

Created by Matt Charman, known for Bridge of Spies, Hostage blends the best of political intrigue and thriller pacing. The writing is sharp, the tension unrelenting, and the story never loses sight of the human cost behind the headlines. Supporting performances from Ashley Thomas, Lucian Msamati and others round out the strong cast.

This series will appeal to viewers who enjoy smart, fast-paced political dramas with emotional depth. It’s a thriller with real-world stakes, showing leaders as flawed, fierce and deeply human. If you appreciate gripping stories driven by strong performances, Hostage promises to be a compelling watch.