Mrs Wilson

Mrs Wilson is a captivating 2018 mini-series that aired on PBS and was coproduced by the BBC. Inspired by true events, the story is an engaging drama teeming with compelling performances, pervasive secrets, betrayal, and enduring love. Its intricate plot keeps viewers on the edge of their seats that will have you questioning the concept of truth by the end of each episode.

The series stars Ruth Wilson, a respected British actress known for her roles in Luther and The Affair. What sets Mrs. Wilson apart from other shows is that Ruth is telling her own family’s incredible story. The central figure that propels the narrative is her own grandmother, Alison Wilson.

The story takes place in 1963 London when Alison Wilson, a loyal, resilient, and humble woman, suddenly becomes a widow after the death of her husband, Alexander "Alec" Wilson. Alec, played flawefully by Iain Glen of Game of Thrones, was a complex character – a novelist, a war hero, and a former spy during World War II. However, his passing leaves behind a trail of unsettling secrets that completely upends Alison Wilson's world.

The shock begins when a woman named Gladys (played by Elizabeth Rider) knocks on Alison’s door, introducing herself as Alec's 'other' wife. Despite the initial denial and shock, Alison becomes compelled to untangle the intricate knot of her husband's mysterious double life. It becomes a cryptic puzzle for her to solve, as her late husband left nothing behind that reveals his secrets.

As the series unfolds, the viewer is taken on a gripping journey through different periods of history. Throughout the three-part series, we are presented with flashbacks to 1940s and 1950s London and India. These vividly portrayed times of war and peace, love and deceit are married together flawlessly to create an enthralling story-line. The constant shifts between the present and the past add to the curiosity, intensity, and allure of the storyline.

Ruth Wilson's captivating portrayal of her grandmother takes audiences through an evocative illumination of a woman whose love story turns into a mystery investigation. Through her outstanding performance, Ruth Wilson brings depth and tenacity to the character of Alison, showing her grappling with the reality of her husband's secret life while demonstrating her strength and resourcefulness.

Meanwhile, Iain Glen delivers a charming and manipulative performance as Alec. His character is often seen in flashbacks, deceitfully carrying on multiple lives simultaneously. The persona he exhibits in his relationships with different women shows his chameleon-like mastery, maintaining starkly contrasting characters for each life. Glen’s performance paints a picture of a fascinating yet elusive man, simultaneously invoking sympathy, confusion, and intrigue.

The supporting cast members also lend credence to the storyline with their compelling performances. Anupam Kher as Shahbaz Karim, Kearley Ainsworth as Dennis Wilson, and Fiona Shaw as Coleman add a distinctive texture to the narrative, making the viewers question along with Alison about who to believe.

One of the key features of Mrs. Wilson that deserves acclamation is its production design. The period details are strikingly authentic, whether it's the depiction of wartime London or postcolonial India, providing the perfect backdrop to this real-life-based drama. The direction and cinematography beautifully encase the rich world that has been created and contribute significantly to the overall success of the series.

In addition to being a thrilling drama, Mrs. Wilson is a profound exploration of emotional resilience and the human capacity to maintain faith in the face of overwhelming betrayal. It prompts viewers to question how well we really know the people we love and the degree to which faith, love, and family can be challenged by unexpected truths.

With three hour-long episodes, Mrs. Wilson packs a punch. Within its short span, it delivers a dramatic ride high on emotions, surprises, mystery, and exceptional performances. Its poignant portrayal of one woman's struggle for resolution, clarity, and closure is compelling and leaves a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Mrs. Wilson is more than an engaging drama. It is an exploration of the enduring strength of the human spirit and the profound complexities of love, providing a masterclass in mystery-drama storytelling. Furthermore, it stands as a unique narrative wherein an actress tells her own family’s history - intricately interwoven with love, betrayal, and deception - through her own compelling personal journey. The personal significance of this story to Ruth Wilson only adds to the gripping nature of this mini-series.