The Victim, a critically acclaimed thriller described as "outstanding" and "a masterpiece", is now available to stream for free on ITVX. The four-part series, set within Scotland's legal system, stars Kelly Macdonald and John Hannah and centres on a mother accused of exposing the new identity of her son's killer online.
Plot Overview
According to an official synopsis, "Hard working family man Craig Myers is the victim of a vicious attack, after being identified online as a notorious child murderer. Is he simply the tragic victim of mistaken identity; or the dangerous killer he is suspected of being?" The series opens on day one of a criminal trial in Edinburgh's High Court, following the legal proceedings while also covering the events leading up to the trial.
Kelly Macdonald portrays Anna Dean, whose son was murdered 15 years ago, while James Harkness appears as Craig. John Hannah plays DI Steven Grover, who is embroiled in the criminal investigation, as reported by the Daily Record.
Critical and Audience Reception
The series, shot across Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the Inverclyde area, first wowed audiences when it was released in 2019. One viewer on IMDb.com posted: "This is an absolutely superb four part drama, that will have you moved, gripped and definitely captivated," adding that it was "not to be missed." Another called it "A masterpiece that can never get the praise that it deserves." A third exclaimed: "This was outstanding! Really gripping and relevant story line. Acting was great as was the camera work... Absolutely loved it!"
Other viewers described it as "one of the most heartbreaking stories I have watched of late," with "outstanding script with superb acting! Gripping, holding in suspense with many twists. Just brilliant story telling. Story that will stay with me for a long time." One fan commented: "A shocking and moving experience for the viewer with a last episode demonstrating the very best in television drama."
More Viewer Praise
On Rotten Tomatoes, one person said: "This is soooo good! Great fantastic acting just blew me away! Kelly Macdonald is brilliant.. they all are ! It's also very poignant!" They added it was "the best I've seen in a long time." Another called the series "riveting" and "intense." A different viewer remarked: "Whoah, this was heavy. Terrific cast of actors and an amazingly original story. It was emotional and just wow."
Another fan stated: "One of the best mini-series out there. Terrific performances, unique plot, amazing character development, all crowned by a memorable finale." One viewer said the series was "gripping and emotional" from beginning to end, praising "an extraordinary group of actors."
The Victim is available to watch on ITVX.
