The art of crafting a decent TV murder mystery may seem daunting, but with modest choices, producers can create a compelling series that keeps viewers guessing. Gone, now streaming on BritBox, is a prime example of this approach.
The show stars David Morrissey, a classically trained actor who excels in his role as Michael Polly, an English headmaster suspected of murdering his wife, Sarah. Morrissey's performance is nuanced, revealing a complex character with a deep emotional well that is slowly unraveled by Detective Sergeant Annie Cassidy, played by Eve Myles.
As the investigation unfolds, Annie is reassigned to the case, taking on a dual role as both detective and family liaison officer. This unusual arrangement allows for a deeper exploration of Michael's character, as he opens up to Annie about his past and his complicated relationship with his daughter, Alana. The show's pacing is expertly handled, with a logical conclusion that is both surprising and satisfying.
Gone's production design is also noteworthy, with beautiful interiors and stunning drone shots of Bristol's Clifton Suspension Bridge. The show's cast is uniformly strong, with standout performances from Emma Appleton as Alana and David Morrissey as the enigmatic Michael.
At its core, Gone is a well-made, agenda-free exercise in genre storytelling. It eschews the need for complex moralizing or ideological posturing, instead focusing on the intricate web of relationships and motivations that drive its characters. The show's greatest strength lies in its ability to keep viewers engaged, without resorting to cheap tricks or sensationalism.
With Gone, streaming giants have a valuable lesson to learn: simplicity and quality can be just as compelling as complex, high-concept storytelling. Gone is a must-watch for fans of the genre, and a reminder that sometimes, less is more.
