In this psychological thriller, a novelist’s affair with a married woman ensnares him in a manipulative plot of seduction and murder.
Novelist Gray (Stephen Dillon) begins an intense affair with the married Drusilla (Amanda Donohoe). She claims her husband, Tiny (Richard Hammatt), is abusive and soon proposes that she and Gray murder him to start a new life together. Horrified, Gray distances himself and travels to France to care for his dying mother. Upon his return to the UK, he discovers that a murder has taken place in his flat. With Drusilla having disappeared, Gray finds himself the prime suspect for Detective Inspector Brodd (Matthew Marsh) and realises he has been the victim of an elaborate and cruel deception.
Adapted from a Ruth Rendell novel, this teleplay captures the author’s signature blend of psychological suspense and domestic cruelty. The production preceded the long-running ITV series of Rendell adaptations, establishing a template for bringing her particular brand of thriller to television. The drama is a classic noir construction, following the ensnarement of an unsuspecting novelist by the duplicitous Drusilla. Amanda Donohoe’s performance is a masterclass in manipulation, as the story’s focus shifts from illicit passion to cold-blooded conspiracy.
Broadcast: BBC One, 1 Episode, 5 January 1988
Adapted by: Michael Baker from the novel by Ruth Rendell
Director: Colin Luke
Producer: Jacky Stoller
Music: Nigel Hess
Main Cast: Stephen Dillon (Gray), Amanda Donohoe (Dru), Matthew Marsh (Detective Inspector Brodd), Kay Stonham (Isobel), Hilary Mason (Miss Platt), Richard Hammatt (Tiny), Anne Lambton (Woman At Party), Mark Lambert (Francis)
