Apple Tree Yard

Apple Tree Yard is an engrossing drama that unfolds in unexpected ways, keeping viewers captivated until the very end. The story follows Yvonne, a scientist who becomes entangled with a mysterious stranger while testifying before a Commons Select Committee. What begins as an intriguing encounter spirals into a gripping and emotionally charged journey that takes shocking turns.

The show starts strong and only improves, with the fourth episode standing out as the most compelling. The narrative is deliberately paced, drawing viewers in with its slow-burn tension rather than relying on constant action. Those expecting a high-octane thriller in the vein of Line of Duty may be disappointed, but for those who appreciate thought-provoking drama, this series is a triumph.

The standout element of the show is its exceptional performances. Mark Bonnar and Ben Chaplin deliver excellent work, but it is Emily Watson who truly shines. Her portrayal of Yvonne is raw, deeply nuanced, and utterly captivating. Watson's ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety makes her performance one of the most powerful in recent television. Her presence alone elevates the series, making it an unforgettable viewing experience.

The courtroom scenes are particularly well-executed, adding to the intensity of the story. While there are a few minor inconsistencies in the plot, they do little to diminish the overall impact of the show. The unpredictable twists and deeply human storytelling ensure that viewers remain engaged from start to finish.

Some critics have dismissed certain character choices as unrealistic, but that perspective fails to acknowledge the complexity of human nature. People often make flawed decisions, and this drama embraces those imperfections, making the story feel authentic and relatable. It's a reminder that drama does not need to depict perfect people in perfect situations to be compelling.

Apple Tree Yard is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged series that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. With its strong narrative, stunning performances, and a lead actress at the peak of her craft, this drama is well worth watching.

Ms. Emily Watson gives the performance of a lifetime in this raw, jagged story of a middle-aged woman who discovers her fiery sexuality with a stranger and suffers a trauma of incredible profundity. Watson sets the screen on fire with her presence and her smoldering sexual power. Her beauty is mesmerizing and her eyes speak more than a thousand pages of intricate dialog. This a showcase for a truly great actress and all that she brings to the part she plays with such passion. Watson is a treasure and one of the finest actors Britain has ever produced. Apple Tree Yard is a fine piece and what Emily Watson achieves in it will leave you gasping for breath and stunned with wonder.

Though, I was in fact hoping to find a 'secret Sherlock' episode, I was happy with Apple Tree Yard as a whole.

I see some complaints it was TOO SLOW. It only has 4 episodes, give it a chance, lol. Have a bit of patience.

It had intrigue, lust, complicated family and marital relations. Humans that make poor choices and a question as to who is the villain.

I loved the sets from just the Apple Tree Yard SW1 Alley to the chapel of the Commons.

If people wanted Sherlock and didn't get it, they got a good mystery at least. On top of being a thriller and a damn good drama.

You get an insanely intense and mind blowing finale.

Emily Watson was great and the rest of the cast were certainly very good. Creepy ending...I hope for another series of this! 8/10

'Apple Tree Yard' is far from perfect. But Emily Watson as the story's protagonist Yvonne is as close to perfect in that role as one could imagine. And, trust me, she alone is reason enough to watch this four episode drama. Perhaps it is her face, specifically her doleful eyes, but we care about Yvonne. We want the best for her. And we will not stop watching until the series' final moment.

Or final second. Because this film asks that you do just that. Stay with it right up to the final credits.

Yvonne is a brilliant scientist who has an affair with a British Civil Servant (Ben Chaplin). She is married to a seemingly wonderful man but the affair - sex with a stranger, sex in public spaces - is so thrilling, she cannot quit it. But soon enough she is the victim of an event that causes her to re-evaluate her life, in full. Yvonne makes choices that not each of us would make. Even so, we can understand how someone might make those decisions; they are not uncommon.

There is one major problem with the plot. And without giving anything away, that problem is this. Yvonne keeps her affair a secret. From her friends and family. That we understand. But when she keeps it a secret from those whose mission it is to help her, that, for me, was a problem. And a big one.

Ben Chaplin is appropriately creepy as her secret lover. But the film belongs to Ms. Watson. And Ms. Watson delivers.

Scientist Yvonne falls for a mystery man whilst answering questions at a Commons Select committee, the stranger would have a big impact on Yvonne's life.

It's starts off very well, and gets better and better, the fourth episode is brilliant, the best of the four.

It's an interesting story, that goes in the most unusual and unexpected directions, you are taken on Yvonne's rollercoaster ride. You will be curious about Yvonne until the last.

The acting is the show's primary strength, Bonnar and Chaplin are brilliant, however Emily Watson deserved awards for her portrayal of Yvonne, she is one of the best, and this highlights how awesome she is.

I would highly recommend this drama. 8/10.