Netflix's latest foray into the crowded crime drama genre has sparked a wave of negative reactions from UK viewers, despite featuring a beloved star from Downton Abbey. The series, titled Too Good To Be True, has been branded an "utter waste of time" and criticised for its "paper thin" plot, creating a significant divide in audience opinion.
A Wave of Scathing Viewer Criticism
Originally airing on Channel 5 in 2024, the four-part thriller stars Allen Leech, 44, famed for playing Tom Branson in Downton Abbey, alongside former EastEnders actress Kara Tointon, 42. The plot follows Rachel, a single mother and cleaner, whose life takes a turn when a wealthy businessman offers her a better job. However, she grows increasingly suspicious of his motives as she becomes entangled in his affairs.
The show's arrival on Netflix has amplified harsh critiques. One brutal review summarised the experience: "An utter waste of time. Just finished this series... It gets steadily worse with each episode with a paper thin and entirely predictable plot." Another disappointed viewer warned others: "Don't waste your time like I did. I kept thinking it would get better. It absolutely does not."
Further criticism homed in on the narrative's lack of originality. A third viewer noted, "As usual with this type of drama, this started off okay and went downhill rapidly. It is very predictable and some of it makes no sense at all." The sentiment was echoed by another who starkly advised audiences to "watch something more interesting like the proverbial paint drying."
Defenders and a Modest IMDb Rating
Despite the barrage of negative feedback, the show maintains a modest IMDb rating of 5.6 out of ten, indicating a segment of viewers found merit in it. A contingent of fans have pushed back against the harsh reviews, describing the series as perfectly "watchable."
One supporter countered, "I've read some scathing reviews about this show, and whilst I don't think it's great, I still think it's watchable." Another argued, "Not as bad as ratings suggest. This is a little predictable but is easy to watch and does have a storyline." Some even urged potential viewers to give it a chance, with comments like, "Despite the low rating and some negative reviews it's surprisingly good. So don't be fooled," and, "The first episode was good just persevere with it as the series does get better."
Cast Stand By The Thriller
The show's stars have publicly expressed their fondness for the project. Allen Leech previously told the Daily Mail that he appreciated the nuanced storytelling. "Rachel and Liam are such likeable characters that you’ll be really rooting for them," he said. "But what I like about the story is that it doesn’t hammer home the plot – from the first episode the audience is unsure who to believe."
Kara Tointon also praised her role, revealing a personal connection to the character. "In the past I tended to prefer theatre because I felt the roles I was getting were grittier," she admitted. "But with Too Good To Be True I could really get on board with Rachel and immerse myself in it."
For those curious to judge the divisive crime drama for themselves, all episodes of Too Good To Be True are available to stream on Netflix now.
