The Newsroom

Oscar-winner Aaron Sorkin is the man behind The Social Network and TV's much-loved The West Wing. The Newsroom, his latest TV vehicle, depicts life behind the scenes of a fictional cable news channel.

In this HBO drama (airing on Sky Atlantic here in the UK), the newsroom staff embark on a mission to deliver the news with editorial integrity, irrespective of the numerous obstacles in their way, including corporate politics, personal (and personnel) entanglements and the agenda of rival broadcasters.

Eagerly anticipated, it's fair to say the reaction has been decidedly mixed across the pond. Hank Stuever of The Washington Post said it "fails to meet the high expectations that greet it, save one: It is crammed with incessant gibber-jabber." Jace Lacob of The Daily Beast said: "The Newsroom transforms its female characters into hysterics and fools." The New York Post's Linda Stasi was kinder: "The Newsroom is both entertaining and irritating."

One wonders what UK critics will make of it, especially as this show is imbued with Sorkin trademarks; his propensity for preachy characters and over-earnest dialogue at times, for example. In the meantime, while opinion of the show itself varies, most critics agree that it has a superb cast. Find out who's who in our gallery.

The Newsroom, from 10 July at 10pm on Sky Atlantic.