15 Days

15 Days is a nail-biting crime drama series from 2019 produced by the world-renowned, British television network, ITV. Based on the successful Welsh drama 35 Diwrnod, the show has been reimagined and brought to life in English, delivering a high-intensity viewing experience full of suspense and surprise. The series boasts 4 riveting episodes, each one culminating in an unexpected turn of events, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

The show begins with a shocking event - a brutal murder - and then dramatically rewinds to 15 days before the incident, immediately pulling the audience in with a mystery that begs to unfold. This reverse storytelling structure is instrumental in building the suspense and drama, letting the audience experience everything in retrospect. Every moment captured on screen becomes a potential clue, subtly layered within the narrative.

Set in the breathtaking rural landscapes of Wales, the scenery adds a hauntingly beautiful background to the grim storyline. Alongside stunning visuals, the show brings together a talented ensemble cast, whose perpetually complex and evolving relationships with each other form the soul of the drama. The cast performs convincingly, aiding in the creation of a tense atmosphere that complements the storytelling.

The plot revolves around the complexities of family dynamics and showcases how love and loyalty can sometimes blur the lines of right and wrong, truth and lie. The central characters, four adopted siblings, reunite in their family home after the sudden death of their mother. The reunion, however, is strained, revealing numerous tensions and conflicts between the siblings. As they grapple with their loss and confront their strained relationships, their fraught interactions lead to a shocking act of violence - the very event that the series opened with.

The narrative cleverly explores the darker underpinnings of human nature and the secrets people keep from their loved ones. Latent resentments, buried secrets, and repressed truths all bubble to the surface during the course of the 15 days. Along with the central murder mystery, the show also subtly weaves in various secondary plotlines that delve into other aspects of the characters’ lives, enhancing the audience's understanding of their motivations and actions.

The setting, decor, and camera work skillfully enhance the ambiance of the plot, making the onscreen events feel more immediate and intense. The dimly lit rooms and shadowy corners mimic the protagonists' murky pasts, while close-ups are utilised to highlight their inner turmoil, fear, and panic. Night scenes and stormy weather conditions further contribute to the moody and striking visual palette of the series.

However, it's not just about the dark and intense. The show also subtly incorporates lighter moments to relieve tension now and then. Familial bonds, loyalty, love, and affection are certainly represented within the story, offering a sense of hope amidst chaos. Moreover, the dialogue in the show is sharp and poignant, cutting through the tension and often providing essential insights into the characters and their dilemmas.

The series stands out for its attention to detail, the unexpected twists and turns of its storyline, and the emotional depth of its characters. Its compelling narrative, combined with high-end production values, brilliant performances, and stunning cinematography is what sets it a notch above other crime dramas.

In conclusion, 15 Days is a compelling psychological crime drama that meticulously blends suspense, emotion, and mystery. Grounded in its exploration of human emotion and familial relationships, the show offers rich characterisation and a plotline that constantly keeps the audience guessing. For lovers of suspense-filled narratives, gripping drama, and high-stakes crime investigation, 15 Days is a must-watch series that packs a powerful punch in its short run time.