The BBC's 2014 crime film Common has left viewers 'heartbroken,' according to recent reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. The 90-minute drama, written by Jimmy McGovern and directed by David Blair, focuses on a teenager charged as an accessory to murder under the controversial joint enterprise legal doctrine.
Plot and Inspiration
The film stars Nico Mirallegro as 17-year-old Johnjo O'Shea, who is asked to give his older brother's friends a lift in his brother's car to a pizza takeaway. Unbeknownst to Johnjo, one passenger intends to confront a rival there. A fight erupts, leading to the fatal stabbing of Tommy Ward. Johnjo is then prosecuted as an accessory to murder under common purpose, a component of joint enterprise law.
McGovern drew inspiration from the real case of 16-year-old Jordan Cunliffe, who received a minimum 12-year sentence for the murder of Garry Newlove in 2007, despite reportedly playing no active role in the assault. The film explores the legal proceedings and the tensions between families caught in the tragedy.
Cast and Reception
The cast includes Michelle Fairley and Harry Potter alumnus Michael Gambon. On Rotten Tomatoes, one viewer called it 'a gritty British drama that brings a new area of crime and punishment to light,' while another said it was 'so heartbreaking I never want to see it again.' The Guardian described it as 'a brutal and devastating drama' that is 'bleak, powerful' and 'thick with political intent.'
Where to Watch
Common is available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Fans of crime dramas like Broadchurch have praised its emotional depth and powerful performances.
