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The Sixth Commandment (2023)

2023 · Crime,Drama,History · dramatized-true-crime, crime-procedural

The Sixth Commandment poster

A four-part BBC dramatisation of the real 2019 UK murders committed by Ben Field, who groomed and killed two elderly, lonely villagers — retired teacher Peter Farquhar and his neighbour Ann Moore-Martin. Written by Sarah Phelps and made with the victims' families' cooperation, it is a slow-burn psychological crime drama that prioritises the humanity of its victims over thriller mechanics. The show is anchored by career-defining performances from Timothy Spall and Anne Reid, with Eanna Hardwicke terrifying as the charismatic predator. Tone is restrained, mournful, and deeply uncomfortable — closer to a moral reckoning than a procedural. Reviewers consistently describe it as one of the finest British dramas of 2023.

From the reviewers

It is remarkable just how much Eanna Hardwicke looks like the real life Ben Field. His performance here was quite exceptional, and whilst I will rave about Timothy Spall and Anne Reid, Hardwicke made the whole thing come to life.
Timothy Spall should win an award for his performance, he was incredible, Anne Reid also phenomenal.
The three principals, Tim Spall, Anne Reid and Eanna Hardwicke all deliver big time with understated and nuanced performances.
The use of hand-held camera gave it a documentary feel at times.
The pacing is superb - a slow ratchet towards the climax of the jury's verdict.

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