Unforgiven

This is an excellent drama about a young woman, Ruth Slater, who is released from prison after serving a 15 year sentence for a double murder. However, she is far from the hardened criminal many falsely assume. Suranne James gives a first class performance as the wounded soul who possessed an enormous heart despite her treatment by the justice system. Her first mission was to find her sister who she loved beyond measure. In her quest, she was helped by lawyer Peter Davison. Siobhan Finnerty, as his high strung spouse, had far less sympathy but came over to the Ruth's side once she learned her story. Ruth was fighting an uphill battle to win acceptance, even while still using her own name. As a result, her record became known to the community. She was also very naive and far too honest about her past. This lack of awareness about how to navigate her way back also made me sympathetic to her character. It was easy to stay with this series with all its twists and turns. Thanks to Britbox for bringing ITV (and BBC) shows to Canada.

First of all, never pass up an opportunity to watch a series from the pen of Sally Wainwright. Secondly, be similarly alert to watch performances by Suranne Jones. Now, add a stellar cast of the likes of Peter Davison, Gemma Redgrave and Siobhan Finneran and you've struck gold. This has a story with heart and depth with performances by the best. I give this series a 9 (superb) out of 10. {Crime Drama}

Suranne Jones shows what she can do in this TV drama. A little predictable in plotting but Suranne's performance is excellent. You are always involved in her character and she makes Ruth believable. To go from a soap like Corrie (which must have been a marvellous learning situation for a young actor) to proper drama like Unforgiven is a leap which many do not manage. Suranne chose fairly wisely, with the exception of Harley Street, and was always watchable and credible. The supporting cast are pretty good too, some playing against their usual type. The three part series is one that appeals to me if one cannot watch it in its entirety.Itv seem to do this format well and in these more austere times they are still championing good intelligent drama when the mood takes them. The BBC still do period stuff better but credit where credit is due.

Kudos to Sally Wainwright, to Suranne Jones, and to Britbox for bringing this series to the US. It's only three episodes, but it's all meat and no filler as we get to know the characters. Suranne and cast are in top form, the dialogue is on point, and the story is compelling. I've never seen the Sandra Bullock remake, but it would have to go a ways to top the original. Worth a watch!

Absolutely outstanding drama mine series. Best piece of TV I have seen for quite a long time. Really shows what can be done as long as the story is good enough and the actors are up for the job - there are several incredibly good performances here. Suranne Jones is fantastic in the lead role and Matthew McNulty also really stands out - but generally everyone puts in top drawer performances. The last episode has a bit more action in it than the first two but it continues to build on the story and doesn't let anything else get in the way. The ending is very, very touching as well and it is a brilliant way to conclude the series. Overall 10 out of 10 and a huge thumbs up to British ITV.