Episode 1
Two-part drama based on Agatha Christie's novel. A dashing young chancer is accused of murdering a rich widow for her money. Can his wife's alibi prove his innocence?
1920s London. A murder, brutal and bloodthirsty, has stained the plush carpets of a handsome London townhouse - the victim is the beautiful widow Emily French. All evidence points to Leonard, a dashing young chancer who seduced the older woman into leaving him her vast fortune before ruthlessly taking her life. At least, this is the story that Emily's distraught, devoted housekeeper Janet stands by in court. Mayhew, a penniless solicitor, is put in charge of Leonard's case.
Initially treating the suspect with indifference, Mayhew is gradually moved by the young man's case. Leonard is certain that his innocence can be proved by his wife, the enigmatic chorus girl Romaine. The entire case rests on her alibi, and Mayhew is reassured to learn that she witnessed Leonard return at 9.30pm, the time when he supposedly murdered Emily. Will she testify and save her husband, or will his infidelity make her vengeful?
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Clip
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"How do you plead?"
Duration: 00:55
Music Played
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Bessie Smith
It Won't Be You
Credits
Role | Contributor |
---|---|
John Mayhew | Toby Jones |
Romaine Heilger | Andrea Riseborough |
Emily French | Kim Cattrall |
Sir Charles Carter | David Haig |
Janet McIntyre | Monica Dolan |
Leonard Vole | Billy Howle |
Tripp | Paul Ready |
Sir Hugo Meredith | Tim McMullan |
Alice Mayhew | Hayley Carmichael |
Detective Breem | Dorian Lough |
Christine Moffat | Miranda Nolan |
Stage Manager | Paul Dallison |
Bernie | Ted Robbins |
Dora | Carla Langley |
Deveraux | Charles De'Ath |
Dame’s Husband | Robert Harper |
Justice Greville Parris | Robert East |
Clerk | Adam Jowett |
Writer | Sarah Phelps |
Producer | Colin Wrattan |
Director | Julian Jarrold |
Production Company | Mammoth Screen |
Broadcasts
- Boxing Day 2016 21:00
- Thu 29 Mar 2018 03:00
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