Penance is a 2020 British psychological thriller television miniseries created by Kate O’Riordan and starring Julie Graham, Neil Morrissey, Tallulah Greive, Nico Mirallegro, and Art Malik. Originally airing on Channel 5 in the United Kingdom from 17 to 19 March 2020, it is finally available to stream on Netflix.

The series follows Rosalie Douglas (Graham), a grieving mother, after her and husband Luke’s (Morrissey) son Rob is found dead in Thailand. Rosalie and Luke eventually separate and Rosalie, known as Rosie, and her daughter, Maddie (Greive), attend a grief counselling support group where they meet Jed Cousins (Mirallegro), a handsome young stranger. His story resonates with them, and relationships soon develop. But is Jed all that he seems at first?

Penance is a dark and twisty thriller that explores themes of grief, loss, and revenge. It has generally been praised for its performances, direction, and writing. 76% of Google viewers like this TV series and it also has a 71% rating on rotten tomatoes.

Here are additional details about the show:

• Firstly, it was filmed in Ireland, primarily in Dublin.
• Secondly, Maurice Sweeney (Khorfakkan, Saving the Titanic) directed the series.
• Thirdy, the script was written by Kate O’Riordan (The Bad Mother’s Handbook) and Ben Morris (Mr Selfridge).
• Lastly, the series is 3 episodes long, each episode running for 44 minutes.

Penance came to the streaming service Netflix in the UK on the 16^th of July 2023 meaning that more people now have access to the series and the show has been praised by critics and viewers alike.

Finally, the show deals with themes of grief and loss. These are topics that people undeniably struggled with in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the show also explores the concept of the religious practice of penance.

Overall

Penance is a well-made, thought-provoking show that is sure to keep viewers entertained and engaged. It is resonating, in particular, with viewers who are looking for a mystery to solve. If you haven’t seen it yet and are presently looking for a good thriller to watch, I recommend checking it out.

• Genre: True crime drama

• Number of episodes: 4

• Air date: July 17, 2023
• Cast: Timothy Spall, Anne Reid, Sheila Hancock, Éanna Hardwicke, Annabel Scholey, Ben Bailey Smith (Doc Brown)
• Writer: Sarah Phelps
• Director: Saul Dibb
• Network: BBC One

The series is based on the true story of Peter Farquhar, a retired teacher who was murdered by Ben Field, a younger man who had become obsessed with him. Field had also targeted another woman in her 80s, Ann Moore-Martin, but she survived.

The Sixth Commandment has been met with positive reviews from critics, who have praised the performances of the cast, the writing, and the direction. Viewers have also responded well to the series, with many calling it “gripping” and “unnerving.”

Here are some reviews from critics:

• “Even if you hate true crime, you should watch The Sixth Commandment.”, “As immaculate a piece of TV as you will ever see.” – The Guardian
• “This was a confident, well-written, deliciously moreish, sourly cool show.” – The Times
• “An unflinching portrait of evil.” – The Telegraph

If you’re a fan of true crime dramas, then check out The Sixth Commandment. It is highly recommended. It’s a well-made and engrossing series that will stay with you long after you’ve finished watching it.