ITV has unveiled the first trailer for its upcoming five-part thriller The Party, starring Luke Evans, Tom Cullen, and Joanna Scanlan. The series chronicles the story of Martin Glimour (Luke Evans), a journalist whose lifelong friendship with wealthy politician Ben Fitzmaurice began at an exclusive boarding school where Martin had secured a scholarship. As Ben and his family provide Martin with a sense of belonging, Martin stands by Ben through difficult moments. However, three decades later, when Martin receives an invitation to Ben's party, events take an unexpected turn.
Synopsis and Plot
A synopsis reads: "The news of the Conservative leader's resignation threatens to derail Ben's Party, as he considers announcing his intention to stand. Martin fears the publicity that Ben's bid would bring, dredging up the secrets of their past with tragic consequences." The drama moves between the shocking events of the Party and the police investigation that follows, with flashbacks to Martin and Ben's lives at school, university, and London party days. It is described as "a gripping exploration of identity, privilege and devotion, combined with a tender ode to anyone who has fought to live authentically."
Trailer Highlights
This week, ITV unveiled a trailer for the forthcoming series, opening with Martin being escorted into a police interview room with his shirt drenched in blood. When questioned about his presence at Denby Hall, he simply replied: "It was a party." A flashback sequence depicts a lavish circus-themed evening, with a woman heard saying: "Just terrible people, doing terrible things." Martin is subsequently shown crouching behind a tree, visibly distressed and striking his head, before a montage of scenes unfolds, featuring a car careering off the road, a woman screaming, and a gun being aimed directly at the camera. The trailer concludes with Martin confined to a holding cell, accompanied by a voiceover declaring, "Tell them everything."
Fan Reactions
Viewers were swift to react to the trailer on ITV's Instagram page, expressing their enthusiasm. One person said: "I loved this book so much, can't wait to see it." Another commented: "Looks amazing. So excited to see Luke in this show." A third wrote: "Ooh, looking forward to this!!!!" A fourth fan added: "Ahhhhhh SO EXCITED." While another shared: "Can't wait, looks thrilling."
Luke Evans on His Role
Star Luke Evans opened up about his dual role as lead actor and executive producer, teasing that audiences are in for a thoroughly 'gripping' experience. He said: "From the moment I read Elizabeth Day's novel, I knew it had the makings of something truly special for television. To now be bringing The Party to life - both as an actor and as an executive producer through Stoic Productions - is incredibly rewarding. Sarah Solemani's adaptation captures the emotional depth and tension of the story perfectly, and to collaborate once again with World Productions and ITV, alongside such an extraordinary cast, is a real privilege. The Party is a gripping exploration of loyalty, class, and the truths we hide, and I can't wait for audiences to experience it."
The Party is available to watch on ITV soon.
