The Thick of It Season 2 Episode 101 The Rise of the Nutters

The Thick of It is an acclaimed British political satire series that pokes fun at the inner workings of government. The second season opens with episode 101, titled "The Rise of the Nutters". The show is set in the corridors of power and follows the lives and careers of various political figures, including beleaguered MP Hugh Abbot, the spin doctor Malcolm Tucker, and a host of other characters.

The episode begins as the opposition party's annual conference is underway. Malcolm Tucker is tasked with ensuring that the government is not caught off guard by any potentially embarrassing revelations that may emerge from the conference. Tucker and his team are working hard to keep tabs on the opposition, but they're struggling to make sense of the bizarre speeches and statements made by the party members.

Meanwhile, Hugh Abbot is trying to keep a cool head in the face of mounting pressure from the media and his own party. He is set to deliver a crucial speech at the party conference, but he's having trouble finding his inspiration and is plagued by self-doubt.

As the conference continues, it becomes clear that something strange is happening within the opposition party. The party members seem to be growing increasingly unhinged and radical. One spokesperson calls for the party to embrace "softer targets" in the fight against terrorism, which Tucker dismisses as a "nutter's idea".

With tensions mounting, the government is forced to take action. Abbot is sent to confront the opposition party's leader and attempt to reason with him. However, his efforts are met with hostility, and he is left feeling defeated.

Meanwhile, Tucker is fighting his own battles. He's concerned that a damaging story about the government might be about to break, and he needs to find a way to neutralize it before it hits the headlines. He employs all his considerable powers of persuasion to convince a journalist to hold off on publishing the story, but his efforts may be in vain.

The episode ends with a twist, as the real nature of the opposition party's "nutters" is revealed. It's a moment that raises important questions about the nature of politics, and whether the truth can ever be hidden for long.

Overall, "The Rise of the Nutters" is a darkly comic exploration of political intrigue and the lengths to which people will go to protect their interests. It's a gripping episode that sets the tone for the rest of the season, and leaves viewers eager to know what happens next.