The 2020 Irish-British psychological thriller The Deceived stars Paul Mescal before his rise to blockbuster fame. Now streaming on Channel 5, the six-part mini-series is perfect for fans of The Fall and Rebecca.
Plot and Setting
The story follows Ophelia Marsh, an English student at Cambridge University who becomes romantically involved with her married lecturer, Michael Callaghan. The affair takes a dark turn when a tragic death occurs, leaving Ophelia trapped in a web of deceit and gaslighting in the fictional village of Knockdara, County Donegal.
Created by the same writer behind the acclaimed Irish series Derry Girls, The Deceived offers a distinctly different tone but is equally binge-worthy. Critics have praised its creepy, sinister atmosphere while noting some flaws in the script.
Paul Mescal's Role
Paul Mescal, known for Normal People and later Gladiator II, Hamnet, and Aftersun, plays Sean McKeogh, a local builder and volunteer firefighter. He becomes Ophelia's confidant, helping her uncover the truth behind the death. One reviewer on The Age described the series as “creepy without being too disturbing... the viewing equivalent of comfort food.”
Critical Reception
Viewers have praised the mind games and performances. One review stated: “I thought the mind games played by Michael on his young student were carefully crafted, skillful and sinister.” Another added: “This was a truly excellent four-part drama... a smart, creepy, sinister series.”
The cast includes Emmett J Scanlan as the lecturer, Emily Reid as the student, along with Eleanor Methven, Catherine Walker, and Ciara Berkeley. While performances are widely praised, some criticism targets the script and storyline.
Streaming Availability
Released during the pandemic, The Deceived initially flew under the radar. All six episodes are now available to stream for free on Channel 5. For Paul Mescal fans, it offers a chance to see one of his earlier roles before his rise to stardom.
