Smith & graham serve up a dose of british noir: revisiting ‘accused’

Sheridan Smith and Stephen Graham – names synonymous with a particular kind of grit and intensity in British television. Their performances, particularly in the anthology series ‘Accused,’ remain a masterclass in unsettling storytelling, and it’s time to revisit why this series deserves a reappraisal.

A dark descent: what ‘accused’ is all about

Originally airing in 2010, ‘Accused’ isn’t your typical procedural. Each episode unfolds as a self-contained crime drama, focusing on a different victim and the individuals implicated in their downfall. It’s a relentless, often bleak examination of the fragility of human nature under pressure – a relentless cascade of moral compromises and desperate choices. The premise, as ITV succinctly puts it, is ‘an anthology of crime stories wherein different types of criminal activities performed by various culprits are showcased and how the victims are given justice.’

The cast: a stellar ensemble

Beyond Smith and Graham’s undeniable chemistry, the supporting cast is uniformly brilliant. Olivia Colman delivers a chillingly understated performance, while Peter Capaldi’s portrayal of Frank Ryland is both unsettling and strangely compelling. Don’t overlook John Bishop’s surprisingly nuanced work, or the sheer intensity brought by Andy Serkis. The sheer breadth of talent assembled is remarkable – a veritable who’s who of British acting. Consider the chilling presence of Christopher Eccleston as Willy Houlihan, or the quietly devastating Naomie Harris as Alison Wade. This isn’t just a series; it’s a showcase of exceptional acting talent.

Where to watch: easy access

Fortunately, catching up on ‘Accused’ is remarkably simple. All ten episodes are currently streaming on ITVX. It’s a perfect weekend distraction – bite-sized episodes, no need for intricate plot connections. Forget binge-watching; this series is best enjoyed in measured doses.

Critical reception: a mixed bag

Initial reception in 2010 was… complicated. The Guardian described it as “a compelling dissection of the fragility of ordinary lives, but you did long for just a little light and shade.” While praised for its performances, the sheer darkness of the material – a wall-to-wall misery, relentlessly pressing in from every side – didn’t translate into massive ratings. Metro noted that despite positive reviews and awards, the first six episodes struggled to capture a wide audience, highlighting McGovern’s deliberately uncomfortable approach to character drama. However, the acting remains undeniably strong.

The verdict: still worth your time

‘Accused’ isn’t comfortable viewing, and it’s certainly not a feel-good series. But it’s a remarkably well-crafted anthology that offers a potent, and often disturbing, exploration of human behavior. If you’re looking for a dose of intelligent, unsettling television, this is it. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most compelling stories are the ones that leave you profoundly uneasy.