BBC Announces New Drama 'Two Weeks in August' with Stellar Cast
The BBC has unveiled first-look images and details for its upcoming eight-part drama series, Two Weeks in August, featuring a star-studded ensemble led by Jessica Raine from Call the Midwife and Damien Molony from Bergerac. The series, described as a "witty and painfully relatable" programme, promises to deliver a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of a Greek holiday gone awry.
Plot and Setting: A Holiday Turned Nightmare
Two Weeks in August is set in Greece and follows the story of Zoe, portrayed by Jessica Raine, who embarks on a vacation with her family and friends in an attempt to rediscover joy in her life. However, what begins as an idyllic retreat quickly spirals into chaos. The synopsis reveals that an illicit kiss sets off a chain of events, transforming the dream vacation into a nightmare. As the characters become trapped on the island and face life-or-death situations, tensions rise, and the group turns on each other to assign blame.
The drama explores themes of desire, reckoning, and the refusal to grow up, with the ancient Greek setting adding a layer of mythological intrigue. The series poses the question: Is Zoe responsible for the unfolding drama, or are larger forces at play in this paradise-turned-hell?
Cast and Crew: A Talented Ensemble
Jessica Raine takes on the lead role of Zoe, while Damien Molony plays her husband, Dan. The cast also includes:
- Antonia Thomas as Jess, Solomon's recent bride
- Nicholas Pinnock as Solomon, a long-standing friend
- Leila Farzad and Hugh Skinner as university pals Nat and Jacob
- Additional cast members: Dolly Wells, Dylan Brady, Maria Almeida, Khalil Gharbia, Florence Banks, Sonny Poon Tip, and Cassius Hackforth
- New additions: Eliza and Anthony Lambon as Zoe's children, Eve and Theo, and Joe Dixon as Henry, son of Solomon and Jess
- Tom Goodman-Hill, who is married to Jessica Raine in real life, also features in the lineup
The series is written by Catherine Shepherd, known for her work on The Buccaneers and The Shrink Next Door, and directed by Tom George, the director behind the BBC comedy hit This Country. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, praised the cast and described the programme as "irresistible," noting that while viewers might not want to be on holiday with these characters, watching their reunion unfold will be captivating.
First-Look Images and Promotional Teasers
The released sneak-peek photographs offer a glimpse into the sun-soaked drama, showcasing scenes such as Zoe and Dan strolling in warm weather and Jess relaxing by the swimming pool. A teaser image depicts the circle of friends heading to a party they will never forget, hinting at the turmoil to come. The visuals emphasize the contrast between the serene Greek setting and the impending chaos, building anticipation for the series.
Release Details and Anticipation
Two Weeks in August is scheduled to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, though a specific release date has not yet been announced. The BBC's announcement has generated significant buzz, with fans eagerly awaiting more details about this ensemble drama that blends holiday escapism with intense interpersonal conflict. As the series prepares to debut, it aims to deliver a compelling watch that explores the complexities of human relationships under pressure.
