Series 1, Episode 1.
Jack Thorne’s brand new series stars Keeley Hawes as Anna, a nun who falls for priest Father David (Paapa Essiedu). This notion of renouncing religion for desire has of course been covered many times: think of classic film ‘Black Narcissus ‘ ; the TV series ‘The Thorn Birds’ , or more recently in the dire ‘Fleabag’ with the inclusion of “the hot priest”. So what does Thorne add to this well-trodden path? A rather strange narrative, to be frank.
Anna, blissfully happy in her convent at first, falls desperately in love/lust when Father David runs her hand over a cold tap when she burns it cooking for him. This, apparently is enough for her to leave the convent altogether, and go and declare her unwavering devotion for him.
Where to start here? This is limerance: she hardly knows him, yet is convinced she loves him. After twenty years in a convent, she’s decided to try her luck with a stranger. This feels like wish fulfillment.
Secondly…Are nuns meant to carry money? I thought they had no money, except for in the general fund. So how did she get on a bus into town?
There’s no sense of real character development here, let alone a true, slow- burning love affair. Love takes time to grow. Red flags are all over the place. It’s like cosplay kiss-chase. Still, the acting is good, even though the plot is pretty ridiculous. Maybe it’s a roleplay kink thing?! Time will tell.
Watch on Channel 4.
Hit The North 