The Rapture, a new BBC adaptation of Liz Jensen's 2010 novel, arrives at a moment when the UK is experiencing record-breaking heatwaves and a rise in extremism. The series explores physical and mental discomfort, following clinical psychotherapist Dr Gabrielle Fox (Ruth Madeley), who is recovering from a car accident that killed her husband and left her paralysed. She returns to work at a secure psychiatric unit for adolescents.
Plot and Characters
Her first case is Bethany Krall (India Amarteifio), a 17-year-old convicted of killing her mother Carys with a screwdriver. Bethany claims her drawings are visions that come true and has no memory of the attack. Her father Leonard (Sam Hazeldine) leads a sect called Faith Way, preaching 'Choose hope' and opposing environmental activists. The series also introduces an investigative journalist, a new love interest for Gabrielle, and a mystery woman who might know more about Carys's death.
Themes and Execution
The series tackles grief, guilt, madness versus sanity, and the line between rational belief and religious fervor. The overall effect is chaotic, with many threads, but some smaller scenes work well, such as Bethany's denial cracking, Gabrielle navigating a new relationship and her disability, and a journalist struggling with bitterness.
Verdict
The first two episodes available for review show promise but risk frustration unless the remaining three episodes become clearer. The Rapture aired on BBC One and is on iPlayer now.
