This TV mini series follows an Agatha Christie murder mystery tale. When Rachel Argyll is murdered at her family estate, one of her adoptive sons is arrested for her death. However 18 months later, it seems that the original arrest was not the entire truth, but it’s too late for Jack, the son accused.
The Argyll parents, Rachel and Leo, have five adoptive children; all of whom have many secrets. As we watch, we mostly witness 18 months after the murder of the mother. Although, we are constantly thrown back into flashbacks. These flashbacks are used for a multitude of reasons. Sometimes they are flickers of the now grown adoptive kids’ hidden worries. Or they’re throwing back to a year and a half prior filling in gaps or generating more intrigue. Occasionally, we even witness when the children were young remembering times with their mother. Even though we are constantly jumping round in time, it’s not confusing but extremely clever to either add more to the story or develop more puzzling tension.
Set in 1954 on a wealthy estate in the countryside of England, this era is brought to life incredibly well onto screen. The entire aesthetic is superbly done. Combined with excellent costume and grand landscapes, the cinematography is stunning. We are repeatedly graced with beautiful lakes and clever close up shots to endorse this period in history.
The actors are exceptionally well chosen. The actor who plays Jack, Anthony Boyle, is particularly outstanding in his role. There are also many recognisable British actors, such as Bill Nighy and Matthew Goode. Moreover, Christian Cooke from ‘Love, Rosie’, ‘Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging’ Eleanor Tomlinson, Ella Purnell from ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’, amongst others. Every actor is played superbly well.
‘Ordeal by Innocence’ is a fantastic murder mystery. Every single character seems just as guilty as the next and this family definitely contains it’s fair share of secrets. With only three episodes, this mini series is one easy to binge and uncover the many private matters of the Argyll family. I do love an adaptation of an Agatha Christie novel. They always follow a similar pattern with many curiosities along the way but they will always keep me guessing and this one was no different.
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