Accused: Series 1, Episode 3 – “Helen’s Story” (2010)

Accused, it turns out, is a well-made British legal drama, short on courtroom strategies and heavy on humanity. Each episode focuses on an ordinary person accused of a crime, and if “Helen’s Story” is any indication, the story that led them to their current predicament is told through flashbacks.

In “Helen’s Story,” primary-school teacher Helen Ryland’s world is rent in two when her son is killed in a factory accident at work. The account she’s given doesn’t quite add up, and her grief propels her to action. She investigates, she crusades, and in her quest for retribution, right and wrong take on a different meaning.

As the title suggests, Helen’s loss and Helen’s journey are at the center of the story, but her husband Frank Ryland, played by PC, is bereft of a son as well. While Helen’s grief turns to obsession and outrage, Frank is like a living husk. He’s there, he’s present, but it’s clear he’s barely managing to drag himself around from day to day.

PC is just stellar here. Frank is beaten down, absolutely wrung out by his grief. The performance is largely understated, and like I said, Juliet Stevenson’s Helen gets the main focus, but PC still gets a chance to shine. There’s an excellent scene where Helen and Frank both let their emotions rule them, and they really have it out. And in his moments alone, when no one’s watching, Frank can’t maintain even his slight semblance of control. He simply breaks open and falls apart – it’s wrenching to watch.

I have to mention – near the end, there’s a point at which you’ll start thinking, “Okay, what is going on?! I can’t even!” Just wait. You’ll figure out what’s going on. It’s wild, but I love it.

Accent Watch

100% Scottish.

Recommend?

In General – Most definitely. Well written, superbly acted, and cinematically filmed. Plus, the Netflix page says that other episodes feature the likes of Sean Bean, Christopher Eccleston, and Andy Serkis. I certainly plan on watching the rest of the series when I have a little more space on my viewing docket.

PC-wise – Absolutely. I just love PC’s work in this; so good. Also? He sings. Just saying.

Warnings

Strong language in a few places, and some intense scenes. Also, coulrophobes probably don’t want to watch this episode.