Life of Crime

Life of Crime is a gripping police drama series from BBC Worldwide that first premiered in 2013. The show takes its viewers on a journey, spanning nearly three decades, into the life and career of the tenacious Denise Woods.

The role of Detective Inspector Denise Woods is masterfully encapsulated by actress Hayley Atwell, best known for her roles in films like Captain America: The First Avenger and The Duchess. In Life of Crime, Atwell scales emotional nuances to portray the transformation of a young woman fresh into the police force into a seasoned detective inspector.

The storyline begins in London, in the chaotic year of 1985 that witnessed the Brixton riots. Denise, freshly graduated from the police academy, starts her career as a constable with the Metropolitan Police, under the tutelage of DCI Ferguson, portrayed by seasoned actor Con O'Neill. Denise soon faces her first murder investigation following the brutal death of a young girl named Amy Reid.

From here unfolds an intricate tapestry of crime, justice, relationships, bitter realities, and societal impressions, all intertwined in the backdrop of three distinctive eras – 1985, 1997, and 2013. These three epochs not only serve as markers for Denise’s personal and professional journey but also allows viewers to observe the evolving landscape of policing, especially with respect to female officers in a predominantly male-oriented profession.

A highlight of the show is its realistic demonstration of Denise's struggle against the stereotypes and stigmas of her time. It poses her not only as an agent of the law but as a woman who must navigate a maze of sexism, prejudice, and resistance. This additional layer enriches the narrative, extending it beyond the realm of conventional crime dramas.

One of the key themes explored in Life of Crime is the effect of unsolved crimes on the psyches of the police officers charged with solving them. In the series, the initial murder case continues to haunt Denise, not diminishing but rather amplifying over years as she ascends in her career and personal life, as a mother and wife.

The series also showcases the interplay of power dynamics prevalent within the police force. With Denise getting caught between her superiors, her colleagues, and her insatiable quest for justice, viewers get an inside look into the politics of the institution she serves. As she continually steps on politically dangerous terrain to pursue the truth, it tests her integrity, her professional credibility, and her personal relationships.

Life of Crime is riveting in its presentation of a multi-faceted woman who stands her ground, regardless of the trials and tribulations she encounters throughout her life. This focus shifts the narrative from being just a murder mystery to a high-stakes character study steeped in resilience and determination.

Impressive performances, alongside a compelling and complex plot, ensure that Life of Crime offers a viewing experience that is equally exciting and emotionally engaging. Each episode opens a new chapter in Denise's life and career, continuously keeping audiences on the edge.

The show features a stellar cast including Richard Coyle, Julian Lewis Jones, and Jack Hollington, who bring each of their characters to life. Attention is paid to historical accuracy, be it in the costumes, the sets, or the overall ambiance.

The show’s creators adeptly use lighting and music to highlight the different eras. The lifestyle changes, societal shifts, and the transition in policing methods across the decades are deftly captured on screen.

In a nutshell, Life of Crime offers a unique blend of strong characterization, crime, and drama, engaging audiences through both its complex narrative and its dynamic portrayal of a protagonist that is far from the usual crime-solving heroes. Denise Woods, in all her flaws and strengths, becomes an endearing figure making the show a must-watch for fans of the genre and beyond. No cliffhanger is meaningless; no detail is extra. Every aspect contributes to the meticulous storytelling that is the heart of Life of Crime, making it a significant entry into the genre of crime drama.