Innocent

Innocent, a critically acclaimed British drama series from 2018, available on Sundance Now, invites viewers into a twisting tale of uncertainty and intrigue. This four-part miniseries, created by Matthew Arlidge and Chris Lang, canvases themes of tragedy, justice, familial ties, and the never-ending pursuit of truth.

The series revolves around its deeply complex and compelling protagonist, David Collins. Portrayed by actor Lee Ingleby, Collins is a man who has spent the past seven years of his life in prison, convicted for the murder of his wife. His life, spent behind the cold, unyielding bars of the penitentiary, is a testament to the crumbling ruins of what was once a promising existence. Collins embodies a man haunted by past allegations, grappling with the hurt and isolation that flows naturally from the harsh reality of his circumstances.

Ingleby is flanked by an equally impressive supporting cast, including Hermione Norris, as his late wife's sister, Alice. She is thrown into an emotional turmoil with her loyalties divided between her dead sister and the man she once considered her brother. Arlidge and Lang’s writing showcases Norris's ability to demonstrate an exquisite balance between righteousness and vulnerability.

The narrative of Innocent takes a dramatic turn when Collins, after ferociously maintaining his innocence for years, is acquitted on a technicality and released from imprisonment. The shock, however, only deepens as he returns to a world that had moved on without him, his relationships shredded and tarnished by the stigma of his alleged crime.

After his release, Collins finds himself in the limelight, his actions intensely scrutinized by those who still believe him to be guilty and the many wanting to dig deeper into the unsolved mystery surrounding his wife's murder. Here, the characters of DI William Beech, played by Nigel Lindsay, and DCI Cathy Hudson, portrayed by Angel Coulby, come forth in earnest. Hudson, whose past romantic involvement with Collins presents an undeniable conflict of interest, is thrust into the investigation.

Innocent intricately explores the ripple effect of Collins' acquittal on the lives of those involved. The aftermath of the legal proceedings sees deep-seated secrets unearthed and precarious relationships stirred, taking the characters on an emotionally charged journey. It delves into profound themes of family dynamics, moral complexity, the elasticity of truth, and the resilience of the human spirit.

What makes Innocent truly gripping is its deliberate pacing. The suspense is expertly crafted and sustained throughout the series. The audience is gradually drawn into the grim reality of the situation, with each episode delivering key pieces of the overarching puzzle, each more surprising than the last.

The creators of Innocent, Matthew Arlidge and Chris Lang, have been lauded for their ability to create well-rounded characters and a sensibly woven plot that engages the viewers, challenging them to assess and reassess their perceptions as each instalment unfolds. The skilled direction by Richard Clark underscores the emotional depth and intellectual complexity of the narrative, further enhancing the viewing experience.

In terms of its visual treatment, Innocent is characterized by its moody and atmospheric cinematography. Combining a stark colour palette with a lingering camera, the series succeeds in evoking a palpable sense of unease and tension, which reflect the underlying themes of the story.

Coupled with an evocative score by composer Samuel Sim, the series provides a multitude of emotionally resonant moments that captivate the viewers, leaving them on the edge of their seats. Born from Sim’s musical prowess is a mesmerizing blend of poignant melodies that underline the series' atmospheric drama, complementing the tension onscreen perfectly.

Innocent doesn't just offer a murder mystery; it wraps the viewers into a labyrinth of unanswered questions, questionable characters, and an uncanny mastery of suspense and drama. With keen attention to character development and plot intricacy, the series sets into motion a compelling narrative that is both unsettling and addictive. It prompts the viewers to question the notion of innocence, pushing them to examine the multifaceted nature of truth and justice.

All in all, Innocent is a psychological suspense drama that penetrates the surface of criminal justice and delves into deep-rooted human emotions, compelling audiences to reflect on their prejudices and preconceptions. Its tight, lush storytelling combined with solid performances bring together a series that is hard to forget. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or narratives that effectively explore complex human dynamics, Innocent is a must-watch.