New BBC drama delves into family trauma and resilience
A powerful narrative from the creator of ‘Time’
Anna Friel and Anna Maxwell Martin are set to headline a compelling new BBC drama crafted by the acclaimed Jimmy McGovern, known for his gripping storytelling in series like “Time” and “Cracker.” This yet-to-be-titled 90-minute drama promises to explore the harrowing themes of grooming and sexual abuse within the confines of a single family, the Mitchells, as they navigate the turbulent waters following the release of the perpetrator, a relative, from prison.
Stellar cast and crew
Joining Friel and Maxwell Martin are Bobby Schofield (“Time”), David Threlfall (“Nightsleeper”), and Mark Womack (“The Responder”). Friel, celebrated for her roles in “Marcella” and “Pushing Daisies,” and Maxwell Martin, known for “Motherland,” bring a depth of experience and emotional range to this intense narrative. Additional casting announcements are anticipated, promising an even richer ensemble.
Directorial vision and production excellence
Julia Ford, known for her work on “Showtrial,” will direct this poignant drama. The production is helmed by LA Productions, the team behind “Broken,” with Donna Molloy producing. McGovern himself will serve as an executive producer alongside Colin McKeown for LA Productions and Nawfal Faizullah and Katherine Bond for the BBC.
McGovern’s legacy of impactful storytelling
Jimmy McGovern has a storied history of creating dramas that resonate deeply with audiences. His previous works, such as “Cracker” and the prison series “Time,” have garnered critical acclaim. The first season of “Time” featured powerhouse performances by Sean Bean and Stephen Graham, while the second season, set in a women’s prison, starred Jodie Whittaker, Bella Ramsey, and Tamara Lawrance.
Reflecting on the new project, McGovern expressed his excitement: “I can’t believe the cast and crew that have been assembled for this production. It’s a challenging film, yes, but I can’t wait for it to be shown.”
Tackling sensitive subjects with care
Colin McKeown emphasized the delicate nature of the drama’s subject matter: “This is a profoundly challenging and sensitive subject, tackled with intelligence and care by Jimmy McGovern. It’s a privilege to be working with him again following the success of our previous collaborations on single dramas.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, praised McGovern’s ability to address contemporary issues with sensitivity: “Jimmy McGovern is one of our greatest dramatists, and a master at writing about today’s world. His new film sensitively examines the pain of abuse and how it affects not only the victim but ripples out across the whole family. To see it brought to the screen with such a high calibre cast and creative team is further testament to the quality of Jimmy’s writing.”
Anticipation builds for the release
The drama is set to premiere in the U.K. on BBC One and will be available for streaming on iPlayer. This release is highly anticipated, promising to deliver a powerful and thought-provoking viewing experience.
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of this new drama, keep an eye out for updates and trailers. The combination of McGovern’s writing, Ford’s direction, and the stellar cast ensures that this drama will be a significant addition to the landscape of British television.
Explore more
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the BBC One page. Stay tuned for further updates and insights into this gripping new drama.