Netflix has delivered an early Christmas gift for fans of gripping drama and rising star Paul Mescal, adding one of his lesser-known but critically acclaimed early roles to its UK library.
A Forgotten Gem from a Breakout Year
While 2020 will forever be synonymous with Paul Mescal's star-making turn in the romantic drama Normal People, the actor filmed another compelling project immediately afterwards. That series, the four-part Channel 5 mystery The Deceived, has now arrived on Netflix, offering subscribers a chance to see a different side to the Oscar-nominated actor.
Created by Lisa McGee, the mind behind the hit comedy Derry Girls, the show is a marked departure in tone. It follows university fresher Ophelia Marsh, played by Emily Reid, who becomes entangled with her charismatic English lecturer, Michael Callaghan (Emmett J Scanlan).
A Sinister Mystery Unfolds
The plot takes a dark turn when Michael vanishes from Cambridge. Ophelia's search leads her to a devastating discovery: Michael's wife, successful novelist Roisin (Catherine Walker), has died in a horrific house fire. Paul Mescal appears in a supporting role as Sean, a local builder and volunteer firefighter who discovers Roisin's body and forms a connection with the troubled Ophelia.
Described by The Guardian as a "cosy thriller", the series is being touted as ideal festive viewing for those seeking something with an edge without ruining the holiday mood. The publication noted, "There is nothing hugely innovative on show, but seeing old things done well is a pleasure all of its own. Cosy on down and enjoy."
Audience Acclaim for a Gripping Watch
Viewers who caught the series during its original broadcast have heaped praise on it, with many reviews highlighting its gripping nature. On IMDb, one fan awarded a 10/10 score, writing: "Great show with a brilliant modern take on Daphne Du Maurier! Stand out performance from Emily Reid... a gripping watch from start to finish!"
Another echoed the sentiment, stating, "This was a truly excellent four part drama. The Deceived is a smart, creepy, sinister series, which will have you gripped until its conclusion." A third review specifically praised the chemistry between the leads, saying, "I thought Paul Mescal and her together were so natural... All round good stuff."
With a strong cast that also includes Louisa Harland of Derry Girls fame, The Deceived represents a fascinating chapter in Paul Mescal's early career. For fans who have revisited Normal People multiple times or enjoyed his performances in Aftersun and Gladiator II, this 2020 thriller offers a compelling and darker alternative, now readily available to stream.
