BBC’s new drama from Adolescence producers is also devastating, but in a completely different way

Building on the phenomenal success of Netflix’s standout series “Adolescence,” which was our pick for the best new show of the year, its production company Warp Films has once more hit the mark with a compelling viewing experience – the BBC’s latest drama “Reunion.

In a different turn of phrase, this revenge thriller narrates the story of former convict Daniel Brennan, who is deaf (played by Matthew Gurney). He’s on a mission not just for absolution but also to bring justice to the past hurts that contributed to his incarceration.

As a devoted admirer, I must say that “Reunion” transcends the realm of mere exceptional storytelling, elevated by a remarkable ensemble cast including Gurney, Laura Peake, Anne-Marie Duff, Rose Ayling-Ellis, and Eddie Marsan. It’s more than just a drama; it’s a profound exploration of human connections, emotions, and experiences that resonates deeply, making it a vital piece in the realm of dramatic art.

What to Read Next

Viewed from the standpoint of the deaf community, this bilingual show, using both British Sign Language (BSL) and spoken English, sheds light on various shortcomings society has towards the deaf community. Each incident builds upon the last, creating a path of intense hardship.

Among all the characters, it’s evident that Brennan has faced the most challenges. His isolation within the deaf community and his struggles to adapt in the general population, often referred to as the hearing world, reveal the profound psychological and emotional toll this experience has had on him.

In his solitude, due to lack of interaction, he experiences a deeply sad state, as Gurney conveyed to Digital Spy.

Consider a situation where someone removed your ability to speak. How would it feel if you couldn’t express yourself verbally? The same sentiment applies to those who rely on sign language. Their lack of easy access to this method of communication is comparable to losing their voice.

“How can I survive if my language is gone? I think that’s really important to be reflected.”

Gurney delivers a performance so poetic it’s captivating. As Brennan, he skillfully balances the character’s contrasting emotions, making them seem authentic. He embodies a mix of anger, volatility, care, wound, vulnerability, love, and lovability in a single moment. Watching Gurney bring such complexity to life is nothing short of beautiful.

Brennan’s bond with his daughter Carly (Peake) is similarly expressive, and it’s important to note that Gurney isn’t solely responsible for how it’s portrayed on screen. Peake equally delivers a stunning performance.

Subtly flawed yet nurturing, Carly has a deep need for comfort and protection that clashes with her outbursts. However, when you understand her past struggles, the contradiction becomes clear.

Carly may seem rough and prone to anger, but underneath it all, she yearns for affection and care. This duality makes sense once you learn about her hardships.

In their relationship, there’s a sprinkling of humor that adds depth to their bond as father and daughter. This humor can be transient and fragile, sometimes even a bit crude, but it serves as a testament to the love they harbor for each other and their desire for reconciliation, despite any issues they may face.

In a role reversal, the characters Christine and Miri, portrayed by Anne-Marie Duff from “Bad Sisters” and Rose Ayling-Ellis from “EastEnders”, find themselves in stark contrast due to the influence of Brennan. Their lives have suffered greatly because of his actions.

They constantly bear a hurt; Christine yearns for clarity, while Miri finds it challenging to comprehend what’s happening. Both women exhibit a blend of compassion and suffering, but the manner in which Duff and Ayling-Ellis portray these emotions differs. Christine is resolute and courageous, whereas her daughter Miri appears hesitant and disoriented. This contrast in their performances creates a harmonious dynamic on screen.

In this production, the outstanding acting of the lead characters receives additional support from a group of talented deaf performers, who are often given more substantial roles beyond the usual stereotypical or single-character portrayals they’ve encountered in past stories.

In Reunion, they become completely engrossed in the narrative, just as they do in real life; they’re merely husbands, wives, friends, parents, and colleagues in the story.

Gurney expressed that this chance was rare and significant for him as a deaf actor. He isn’t sure when another opportunity like this will come along. It held great value for him personally, and it’s particularly meaningful to the deaf acting community because it signals greater visibility for us.

2025 seems like an odd time for this to happen, yet here we are. I can’t help but wonder why it took so long, but I’m just grateful that it’s happening now. I hope and pray that the directors, filmmakers, and production companies catch wind of this program and recognize its potential. Let’s not let fear hold us back. That’s my fervent wish, but what follows remains uncertain…

One of the outstanding aspects of Reunion might be its authenticity, stemming from the fact that the actors’ deafness naturally contributes to their portrayal. This isn’t a token effort to meet diversity requirements, but rather an organic part of the cast composition.

Though it carries a strong, politically charged narrative, it essentially represents a powerful and skillfully acted drama in the end. Instead of sermonizing, it manages to tug at your heartstrings, inviting you to reconsider things from a fresh angle.

The four-part drama Reunion truly shines as a testament to its gifted creator William Mager, whose life experiences as a deaf individual resonate throughout every scene. By the conclusion of this powerful piece, you will be deeply moved by the poignant phrases that echo through it: “no one to sign my name.

Reunion is available to watch on BBC 1 and BBC iPlayer.

Read More

2025-04-07 14:20