Accused

'Accused', a series of six tough films scripted or co-scripted by Jimmy McGovern, strikes me as vaguely reminiscent of Alan Bleasdale's 'Boys From the Blackstuff'. What we have is a set of (essentially unconnected) intense dramas that effectively reflect the struggle of many ordinary Britons to survive and prosper. Each one ends in a court case; but it's not the gimmick that's important here. Most of these 21st century characters aren't desperately poor, in the way that Bleasdale's were, and McGovern lacks Bleasdale's political edge: these remain six random stories, without connecting narrative or theme. But there is some good writing, and also some great performances, from a portfolio of British character actors who know exactly how to do TV. It's not fun in the conventional sense, but its definitely worth a look.

Each of these individual one hour stories are captivating from start to finish. Jimmy McGovern excels in tight scripts which gripped me with their realism and pace. The series is further enhanced by fine English acting.

Each episode begins with a person in a prison cell awaiting trial. Flashbacks build up to a crescendo as to why the accused is on trial and whether or not they will be found guilty. The concept is great for those who love a whodunnit type scenario, only this time it's did they didn't they. And even if they did, the complexities of the back story provides moral angles which make you the judge too. Lovely armchair stuff.

In a year when the BBC has had to generally tread carefully in its broadcasting post the faux pas by Ross and Brand on radio which caused thicker red tape to be introduced, this miniseries is one of the few stars in an otherwise cloudy darkness.

It is one of the few, if only, must see fictional programmes on British television today and I thoroughly recommend it.

Best to watch when your head is in a good place. Well done, Jimmy McGovern. And thank you, Acorn, for the best monthly $5 I've ever spent :-)

This series is not light, it's heavy, there is pretty much no comic relief... The acting is excellent, the story-lines often gut wrenching reflecting on the real trials of being human, making bad mistakes and the like. It sounds like a downer, and it might be for some. I watched this for the first time on flix a couple of years ago, and basically binged through both seasons. Saw it again this year, and it's still completely riveting. If you are looking for a "cozy BBC mystery" like Miss Marple this isn't it.

Excellent show, acting, scripts, excellent.

Be warned...if your a sensitive soul and allergic to injustice I suggest you don't binge watch this series.