TV fans cannot get enough of the crime anthology series Accused, which features an all-star cast and ever-changing storylines that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. However, only two seasons are currently available to watch.
Unique Storytelling Style
The 2010 series offers self-contained episodes with new storylines and characters each time, setting it apart from other British crime dramas. Each episode begins in a courtroom with no explanation of the defendant's crime, and as the story unfolds through flashbacks, viewers learn what led them there. Unnerving morals, bad decisions, and tragic circumstances are revealed, keeping audiences gripped.
Stellar Cast
The show features huge names in British TV and film, such as Sean Bean, Anne-Marie Duff, Olivia Colman, and Stephen Graham. Colman's performance earned her a BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress. Peter Capaldi also appears in the series.
Fan Reactions
A fan on IMDB said: "Each of these individual one-hour stories are captivating from start to finish. Jimmy McGovern excels in tight scripts which gripped me with their realism and pace." Another viewer expressed a desire for more seasons, noting: "This series is not light, it's heavy... The acting is excellent, the story lines are often gut-wrenching."
One person described Accused as full of "gut-wrenching stories beautifully acted." Another shared: "Can't recommend this series highly enough. Each episode bar one is a separate story and every one is outstanding and brilliantly acted and scripted."
Creator's Vision
The show was created by Jimmy McGovern for the BBC, known for creating Cracker in the 1990s. Explaining the concept, McGovern said: "In the time it takes to climb the steps to the court we tell the story of how the accused came to be here. We see the crime and we see the punishment. Nothing else."
Where to Watch
Both seasons of Accused are available to stream on ITV and Netflix.
