Trespasses, a British period drama starring Gillian Anderson, is now streaming on Channel 4 and has been hailed as one of the "best" by Red magazine. The series is based on Louise Kennedy's 2022 novel of the same name, set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles in the 1970s.
Cast and Setting
Alongside Anderson, the cast includes Lola Petticrew, Tom Cullen, Martin McCann, and Gerard McCarthy. The story follows Cushla, a Catholic schoolteacher, who works in her family's pub and begins a dangerous affair with Michael, an older Protestant married man who defends IRA suspects.
Plot Synopsis
Channel 4's synopsis reads: "1975, in a town outside Belfast. Whilst working one night behind the bar of her family pub, serving a mixed crowd including the locally stationed soldiers, Catholic schoolteacher Cushla meets Michael, an older Protestant married man, who often defends IRA suspects and is friends with cultured Bohemians who enrage and intrigue Cushla." It continues: "Worlds apart, Cushla knows a relationship like this spells all kinds of trouble, but they are irresistibly drawn to one another. In a place where loose lips cost lives and danger lurks in the shadows, amidst the fear and paranoia, this illicit affair between Cushla and Michael ignites and burns bright..."
Critical Acclaim
Fans of the book, which was shortlisted for the Women's Prize 2023, have praised it as "moving" and "exceptionally well-written." One reviewer noted: "The prose is direct and at times brutally honest while describing the societal distinctions, violence, divisiveness, bigotry and politics in Northern Ireland during the early years of the Troubles." Another added: "This is an extremely well-written book that presents both political and emotional complexities in the most straightforward of plots."
Trespasses is now available to stream on Channel 4.
