A gripping BBC period drama, adapted from a classic Agatha Christie novel, is being celebrated by critics and audiences alike as a television masterpiece and potentially the finest Christie adaptation in recent memory.
A Stellar Cast Brings a Classic Mystery to Life
The series in question is the 2018 three-part adaptation of Agatha Christie's 'Ordeal by Innocence'. It boasts an impressive A-list cast including Bill Nighy as the patriarch Leo Argyll, Anna Chancellor as the murdered Rachel Argyll, Christian Cooke as Mickey Argyll, and Anthony Boyle as the tragic Jack Argyll.
The story unfolds at the Sunny Point estate, where the wealthy Argyll family is reeling from Rachel's brutal murder. Her adopted son Jack, a troubled young offender, is convicted and dies in prison. The family's fragile peace is shattered when a scientist, Arthur Calgary, arrives with proof of Jack's innocence, forcing the chilling realisation that the real killer is still among them.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Praise
The series has earned a remarkable 94% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its quality. Fans have flooded reviews with praise, with many declaring it superior to long-standing favourites like 'Poirot'.
One reviewer noted the perfect pacing of the three-episode format, saying it "will keep you guessing until the end." Another called it "further proof that when it comes to mysteries the Brits do it best." A particularly glowing review stated: "This three-part series is the best-adapted Agatha Christie mystery in recent memory. A well-casted character study of a family full of secrets, the series will have you fooled until the shocking reveal."
Insights into a Troubled Marriage
In discussions about the series, Bill Nighy shed light on his character's complex and strained marriage to Rachel. He suggested to the BBC that the relationship had corroded over time, partly due to Rachel's secretive habit of adopting children and her financial control over the household.
"Leo and Rachel's relationship is not sunny!" Nighy revealed. "The fact that she controls everything, because it is all her money, I suppose, in those days would have emasculated Leo. Paired with him being an unsuccessful writer, he doesn't really have a leg to stand on." This dynamic adds a rich layer of psychological tension to the central whodunit plot.
First airing on BBC One in 2018, the miniseries continues to find new audiences. For those eager to experience this acclaimed mystery, 'Ordeal by Innocence' is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
