The BBC has produced a number of critically acclaimed films and TV shows, but one gritty crime drama may have slipped under the radar for many fans. The 2014 made-for-television film Common, written by Jimmy McGovern and directed by David Blair, has left viewers 'heartbroken' with its unflinching portrayal of the UK's joint enterprise legal doctrine.
Plot and Inspiration
The film follows 17-year-old Johnjo O'Shea (Nico Mirallegro), who gives his older brother's friends a lift to a pizza takeaway. Unbeknownst to him, one passenger intends to confront a rival, leading to a fatal stabbing. Johnjo is charged as an accessory to murder under the doctrine of common purpose, which allows multiple people to be prosecuted for the same offence regardless of their individual roles.
McGovern drew inspiration from the real case of 16-year-old Jordan Cunliffe, who was sentenced to a minimum of 12 years for the murder of Garry Newlove in 2007. Newlove was beaten to death after challenging a group of youths outside his home; Cunliffe was understood to have played no active role in the assault.
Cast and Reception
The film stars Nico Mirallegro, Michelle Fairley, and Harry Potter actor Michael Gambon. On Rotten Tomatoes, one viewer called it 'actor and storyline driven, this gritty British drama brings a new area of crime and punishment to light.' Another added, 'Very well made and acted, but 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,' though it noted this 'occasionally robs it of its quality.'
Streaming Availability
Common is currently streaming on BBC iPlayer.
