```html Suranne Jones on Playing a Prime Minister: 'It Changes Your Perception' of Politics

Suranne Jones, known for her roles in "Doctor Foster" and "Vigil," is stepping into the shoes of a British Prime Minister in Netflix's new political thriller, "Hostage." The series, which also stars Julie Delpy, explores the complex dynamics of power and international relations when the Prime Minister's husband is kidnapped during a high-stakes summit.

A Political Thriller, But Not a Political Statement

While "Hostage" touches on contemporary issues like immigration and healthcare funding, Jones and Delpy insist the show isn't intended as a direct commentary on current political events. "It's political with a small p," Jones told the BBC. "There's enough that roots us in the real world, but the world is too complicated to link it directly." Delpy echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the ever-shifting nature of politics: "Things change every day. It's impossible to be in the political moment because tomorrow is something else."

Matt Charman, the show's writer, acknowledges the unavoidable connection to the real world. "If you wrote a show that isn't connected to our world, it would feel weird," he explained, adding that he hopes the show can "exist in its own oxygen."

Female Leaders in the Spotlight

A key aspect of "Hostage" is its focus on two female world leaders. Charman deliberately chose to feature women in these roles, exploring how their experiences in power might differ from those of their male counterparts. "There's a double standard for women, so giving full dramatic freedom to that was very important," he said. Jones added that the dynamic between the two women is particularly interesting, noting how "a female politician is used to dealing with men, so it's interesting to see how it plays out when it's two women."

Avoiding Stereotypes

Delpy emphasized the importance of avoiding stereotypical portrayals of female politicians. "We made sure not to play into the female politician stereotypes," she said. "What I like is that these women actually have some things in common, like they both want change and came into office hopeful."

Immersion in the Political World

To prepare for the role, Jones immersed herself in the world of politics, visiting the House of Commons, speaking with the Speaker of the House, and consuming books, podcasts, and documentaries. "I'm a bit of a geek when it comes to research," she admitted. "I was fascinated by not emulating anyone but by understanding a life I knew nothing about. And it's the cost of being in a powerful position in that way that really struck me."

Expert Perspective: The Evolution of Political Dramas

Dr. Sarah Ellis, a media studies professor at King's College London, notes the increasing complexity of political dramas. "Shows like 'The West Wing' once presented a largely idealistic view of politics," she explains. "Now, we see more nuanced and often cynical portrayals, reflecting a growing public distrust of institutions. 'Hostage' seems to be navigating this shift, attempting to balance thrilling storytelling with a degree of realism."

The Cost of Power

Charman revealed that extensive research went into creating the show, including interviews with former prime ministers who spoke confidentially about their time in office and the pressures on their families. Jones stated that her research "changes your perception for sure" and makes you realize "the cost of being in a powerful position."

Maintaining Ideals in Politics

The show raises the question of whether politicians can maintain their ideals once in office. While Jones remains uncertain, Charman is optimistic. "I wanted to explore how there can be decent people in politics who are fundamentally good but get pushed around," he said. He believes it's not "inevitable" that people give up their ideals, but "it's definitely tough to keep your morals." Delpy offers a more pessimistic view, arguing that moderate voices are often lost in the noise of extreme opinions.

A Timely Exploration

Ultimately, "Hostage" explores "what it takes to be a good person in a system that doesn't always reward good people," according to Charman. In a world grappling with political polarization and eroding trust in leadership, the series offers a timely and thought-provoking exploration of power, morality, and the human cost of leadership.

Analytical Viewpoint: Reflecting Societal Anxieties

Media critic Mark Lawson suggests that "Hostage," like many contemporary political thrillers, taps into deep-seated societal anxieties. "The kidnapping plot, the international intrigue, the focus on ethical compromises – these elements resonate with a public increasingly concerned about global instability and the integrity of its leaders," Lawson observes. "The success of such shows often hinges on their ability to mirror and explore these anxieties in a compelling and entertaining way." ```