The loss of a young child is a harrowing experience. Imagine, then, what it must be like if that said child was murdered... and his murderer had been let free from prison early with a new identity.
This is the basis for The Victim. A four-part dark thriller about a mother's hunt for her son's killer. Considering the subject matter I knew this was going to be a bleak undertaking. I'm an avid viewer and I find series like this, that have only one story to tell, are best watched in one sitting. Unfortunately, doing so with this series was a little tough to endure as there are absolutely no happy times shown. Four hours of colour diffused scenes and jagged jittering camera work is about one hour too much. It would have been nice to have a couple of "nicer" scenes. They didn't have to be happy and joyous; just a little less dire. It would have made a nice contrast.
I will have to warn viewers thinking of watching the series that the first episode is the worst. Right from the start, the story is confusing and jumpy, this could have been handled so much better. Stay with it though, as it does smoothen out as the story progresses... except for the flashbacks - sometimes it's difficult to realise you've gone back in the timeline. If you don't like flashbacks, and I know there are people out there who don't, this could be a "Hit the off button" event for you.
Even though the direction isn't brilliant and just hits average the rest of the production is top-notch. The acting, by all the cast members, is superb and engrossing. Put this together with a story that will keep you wondering just who the killer is - I got it before the predictable twist at the end, though I had my ideas from the second episode - then you have a great viewing experience.
I have to admit that I loved to hate John Hannah's character, Detective Steven Grover. He's definitely not the loveable and huggable type of copper. Then when Anna gives her heartfelt outburst in court, Kelly Mcdonald is exquisite as she puts everything but the kitchen sink into her performance and the same can be said of James Harkness as Craig Myers.
Even though the characters, and the actors' and actresses' portrayals of them, lifted the weak directing it wouldn't have been enough had the story not been as good as it was. Right up to the very end you are unsure of the facts... though you may have guessed the outcome it literally could have a few different reveals.
All in all, this is a series to watch and I would recommend it to all. So if you like your thrillers and dramas a little darker and grimmer this is the one to watch.
