ITV’s ‘Gone’ Signals a Rise in Psychological Thrillers Inspired by Real Crime
ITV’s upcoming psychological drama, Gone, starring David Morrissey and Eve Myles, isn’t just another crime thriller. It represents a growing trend in television: meticulously crafted mysteries drawing inspiration directly from real-life police work and criminal investigations. The series, created by George Kay, is partly inspired by the book “To Hunt A Killer” and the experiences of former Detective Superintendent Julie Mackay and ITV Crime Correspondent Robert Murphy.
The Convergence of True Crime and Scripted Drama
The line between true crime documentaries and scripted dramas is blurring. Audiences have demonstrated a voracious appetite for true crime content, fueled by podcasts like “Serial” and documentaries like “Making a Murderer.” This demand is now influencing the types of dramas being greenlit. Gone taps into this fascination by grounding its fictional narrative in the realities of criminal investigation. This approach offers a sense of authenticity that resonates with viewers.
This isn’t an isolated case. The success of shows like “Unbelievable” (Netflix), based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning article about a series of rapes, demonstrates the power of adapting true stories. Similarly, the popularity of “The Long Shadow,” which previously featured David Morrissey, highlights the public’s interest in revisiting historical crime events with dramatic license.
The Appeal of Complex Characters and ‘Cat and Mouse’ Dynamics
Gone centers on a compelling dynamic: a local headmaster, Michael Polly (Morrissey), becomes the prime suspect in his wife’s disappearance, and is investigated by Detective Annie Cassidy (Myles). This “cat and mouse” scenario is a classic thriller trope, but the series promises to delve deeper into the psychological complexities of both characters. The description of Polly as “inscrutable” and Cassidy as “gutsy” suggests a nuanced exploration of power, suspicion, and the search for truth.
This focus on character psychology is a key element of the current thriller landscape. Viewers are no longer satisfied with simple whodunits; they want to understand why someone committed a crime, and the emotional toll it takes on all involved. The involvement of real-life experts like Mackay and Murphy as consultants further enhances this psychological realism.
The Production Powerhouse Behind the Scenes
The series is a collaboration between Observatory Pictures and New Pictures, both backed by All3Media. George Kay, the creator, also co-created the popular series Lupin, demonstrating his ability to craft compelling narratives. The direction by BAFTA-winning Richard Laxton adds another layer of prestige to the production. This combination of established talent and production companies suggests a high-quality series with broad appeal.
Kay’s previous collaborations with both Morrissey (The Long Shadow) and Myles (Apple TV’s Hijack) indicate a strong working relationship and a shared creative vision. This pre-existing rapport likely contributes to the on-screen chemistry and the overall quality of the production.
The Bristol Setting: A Shift in Location for British Crime Drama
While many British crime dramas are set in London, Gone utilizes the backdrop of Bristol, a prestigious private school, and a foreboding forest. This shift in location offers a fresh perspective and allows for a different kind of atmosphere. The contrast between the seemingly idyllic setting and the dark events unfolding within it adds to the suspense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gone about? Gone is a psychological thriller about a headmaster who becomes the prime suspect in his wife’s disappearance.
Who stars in Gone? David Morrissey and Eve Myles are the lead actors.
Is Gone based on a true story? The series is partly inspired by a book about real criminal investigations and the experiences of police professionals.
When will Gone be released? The show launches next month.
Where can I watch Gone? Gone will air on ITV1 and ITVX.
Did you know? George Kay also co-created the popular series Lupin.
Pro Tip: If you enjoy psychological thrillers with complex characters, be sure to check out Gone when it premieres.
Stay tuned for more updates on Gone and other exciting new releases. Explore our other articles on the latest trends in television and true crime for more in-depth analysis.
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