See No Evil: The Moors Murders

See No Evil: The Moors Murders is a bone-chilling two-part drama series from FilmRise that aired in 2006. This series takes the audience back to the dark times of the 1960s, detailing one of the most shocking and disturbing chapters of British crime history. Based on real events, it tells the unsettling story of the infamous Moors murders that shook Britain to its core and still haunt the national memory.

The series focuses on the lives of two main characters, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady, who became Britain's most notorious serial killers, instilling a fear which still resonates more than 50 years later. They were responsible for the brutal murders of five children in Greater Manchester. However, the show isn't a mere crime drama; instead, it explores the depths of human psychology and emotion, offering a harrowing insight into the minds of two criminals and their readily accepted monstrosity.

The first episode of the series takes the audience through the life of Hindley, portrayed by Maxine Peake, and Brady, played by Sean Harris, depicting their reprehensible journey starting from their first meeting, their illicit relationship, their shared perverse fantasies, and how they moved towards a path of horrifying crimes.

The top-notch performance by the lead actors brilliantly brings out the unsettling personalities of these murders, making it an unforgettable viewing experience. The portrayal of Myra Hindley by Maxine Peake paints a disturbing yet realistic picture of a woman torn between wickedness, and the social and emotional forces propelling her on the path of crime. Contrarily, Sean Harris's depiction of Ian Brady examines the story from a tightly personal perspective, revealing a character so unnervingly calculated and detached that it sends shivers down the spine.

One of the unique aspects of this series is the use of Myra's sister, Maureen Smith, and her husband, David, as sources of narration. This technique provides viewers with an intimate view of the everyday lives of Brady and Hindley and offers further insight into their twisted world, allowing the story to unfold gradually, increasing the suspense.

The tension-built plot is heightened by the second episode that dives deeper into their reign of terror and the subsequent police investigations that eventually leads towards their arrest. The second episode also intricately weaves the complex story of the tormented relations between Hindley, Brady, and the Smiths.

But See No Evil: The Moors Murders isn't just about chilling murder cases; it's a journey into the depths of terror and manipulation. The series shows how terrifyingly easy it was for these killers to manipulate and control those around them, resulting in truly devastating consequences. The show is a stark depiction of how evil can lurk beneath the most ordinary of facades, emphasizing that these were not isolated individuals living outside society but were a part of it, living and interacting with unsuspecting friends and family.

The series also shines a spotlight on the societal implications and public reactions to these horrifying crimes. It depicts the despair and anger of a country coming to terms with the notion that such atrocities could occur within their midst, altering their perception of safety forever.

It's important to mention that this chilling series doesn't feel the need to be exploitative or sensational in dealing with a case as distressing and macabre as the Moors murders. Instead, it tackles the issue with subtlety and sensitivity, focusing more on the psychological aspects than the lurid details of the crimes themselves.

Visually the show is as atmospheric and haunting as the story it covers. Through its bleak and moody cinematography, the series captures the grim atmosphere of the 1960s perfectly, without straying into melodrama.

In conclusion, See No Evil: The Moors Murders is not just another crime drama series. It is a chilling, yet brilliantly crafted exploration of evil that lies hidden beneath the everyday life that will leave the viewers thinking long after the series ends. It's a must-watch for those interested in true crime stories, but also for those interested in understanding the complex dynamics of human psychology and the dark realities of society.