The long shadow: morrissey delivers a harrowing look at the yorkshire ripper
David Morrissey anchors a fiercely intelligent and deeply unsettling crime drama, The Long Shadow, that eschews sensationalism in favor of a nuanced exploration of the victims and the agonizing toll of the Yorkshire Ripper investigation.
A requiem for forgotten lives
Set against the backdrop of 1975-1980, the series isn’t a gruesome rehash of the Ripper’s crimes – a deliberate choice, according to ITV – but rather a powerful examination of the women whose lives were irrevocably shattered and the relentless police efforts to bring a killer to justice. It’s a profoundly unsettling experience, forcing viewers to confront the systemic failings and the enduring trauma of a national nightmare.
A stellar cast, driven by morrissey
Morrissey delivers a masterclass in understated performance as DCS George Oldfield, a detective grappling with the pressure and the moral weight of the case. Alongside him, a remarkable ensemble – Toby Jones as DCS Dennis Hoban, Lee Ingleby as DCS Jim Hobson, Jack Deam and Katherine Kelly – bring a palpable sense of urgency and despair to their roles. The supporting cast is uniformly excellent, each character meticulously drawn and adding layers of complexity to this already intricate narrative.
Beyond the headlines
The Long Shadow moves beyond the tabloid headlines that dominated the original investigation, choosing instead to center the experiences of the victims, survivors, and their families. The series bravely tackles the emotional fallout, avoiding simplistic depictions of good versus evil and instead presenting a complex portrait of a community grappling with unimaginable loss. It’s a crucial distinction, and one that elevates the drama beyond mere procedural fare.
Critical acclaim and a measured response
Critics have praised the series’ meticulous research and sensitive handling of a difficult subject matter. Radio Times lauded its “gripping” narrative, noting the impressive depth of its investigation, while The Telegraph highlighted the “considered, unsensational” approach to a story steeped in notoriety. Despite a slightly reserved assessment from The Guardian, emphasizing lingering “victim” motifs, the overall reception suggests a powerful and important contribution to the true crime genre.
Where to watch
All seven episodes of The Long Shadow are available to stream completely free on ITVX, offering immediate access to this vital piece of British television history. Don’t miss it.