The Cry

The Cry is a captivating psychological drama that debuted on Sundance Now in 2018. This gripping four-part miniseries, originally aired on the British network BBC One, is based on the 2013 novel by Australian author Helen Fitzgerald.

Set between Scotland and Australia, the story revolves around the emotionally fraught journey of a young couple - Joanna (played by Jenna Coleman) and Alistair (played by Ewan Leslie), and their compelling ordeal that leaves the viewers on the edge of their seats.

Jenna Coleman, well known from her roles in Victoria and Doctor Who, gives a riveting performance in The Cry. She portrays Joanna, an emotionally vulnerable schoolteacher and a fresh, new mother, struggling with the challenges that come with the latter. Ewen Leslie, an acclaimed Australian actor, stars as Alistair, a driven, politically ambitious individual who has a flair for controlling the situations around him. Together, they navigate through the repercussion of an unthinkable tragedy that turns their life upside down.

The series intricately captures the fragile psyche of its characters. It delves deep into the tumultuous emotions of love, fear, despair and the overwhelming stress of parenthood. The narrative chronicles the struggles of Joanna, the mental turmoil she endures, and the complexity of her relationship with Alistair. Viewers are taken on a roller-coaster ride of emotions as they watch the couple grapple with their increasingly strained relationship, a seemingly indifferent society, and an aggressively pursuing media.

In The Cry, the storyline oscillates between different timelines, providing glimpses into the past, present, and possible futures of the characters. The narrative is non-linear and keeps the viewers in suspense, carefully revealing the pieces of the plot in each episode. It presents a tense psychological puzzle that keeps the audience glued to their screens, piecing together the fragments while trying to anticipate what's around the corner.

The Cry is not only about personal drama and psychological suspense. The smartly woven series brings out an intense scrutiny of media's role in contemporary life. The disruption that media can create in the lives of the common people is vividly portrayed, along with smart commentary on societal judgement and the implications of public pressure.

The series was shot and set between Glasgow, Scotland, and Melbourne, Australia. The contrast between the dreary Scottish weather to the scorching heat of Australia, acts as a metaphor and adds to the emotional tension of the drama. These settings provide a visually arresting backdrop that significantly contributes to the overall mood and tension of the storyline.

Directed by Glendyn Ivin, The Cry features brilliant direction and masterful story-telling. The narrative's heart lies in its adept exploration of human frailties, vulnerabilities and the darker facets of relationships. It brings forth an unfiltered and raw representation of motherhood along with the social pressures and expectations attached to it.

The tight narrative, coupled with stellar performances, particularly from Jenna Coleman, ensures that the tension escalates with each passing moment. Her portrayal of a young woman displaying an array of extreme emotions, from distress and helplessness to strength, has been appreciated by critics and audiences alike.

The Cry does an exceptional job in its sound design as well. The haunting score by Lorne Balfe adds layers to the storytelling, heightening the stress, suspense, and overall emotional ordeal that the characters go through.

All these elements come together to create an absorbing, emotionally intense drama that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The Cry is a series that forces its viewers to question, to empathise and to reflect, making it a deeply engaging watch. It represents a tangled web of emotions, showcased through a simple, yet effective narrative, masterful direction, and outstanding performances.

In conclusion, The Cry is a gripping psychological drama that expertly manipulates time and perspectives to create a suspenseful and emotionally profound series. Its exploration of media frenzy, parenthood, and emotional deterioration present a potent mixture that is sure to glue its audience to the screens. A definite must-watch for those who enjoy intense psychological thrillers packed with emotional narratives.