Jenna Coleman Takes on Crime in BBC's "The Jetty"
Jenna Coleman, known for her role in "Doctor Who," trades the TARDIS for a police station in the BBC's latest crime drama, "The Jetty." This gripping four-part series plunges viewers into the tumultuous world of a lakeside town in northern England, where a chilling connection emerges between a string of mysterious cold cases.
A Town Wrapped in Mystery
The story unfolds with a devastating fire engulfing a home in the seemingly idyllic town. What initially appears to be arson quickly takes on a darker dimension as the investigation reveals a link to the disappearance of several teenagers. Detective Ember Manning (Coleman), haunted by her own personal demons and the loss of her husband, finds herself at the heart of this complex puzzle. Her search for the truth unearths shocking revelations that shake the foundation of everything she believes.
Adding another layer to the intrigue, a podcast journalist arrives in town determined to explore the town's history of unsolved crimes. However, her investigative zeal could threaten the police's own efforts to uncover the truth. "The Jetty" offers viewers a tantalizing blend of procedural drama and psychological thriller, delving into themes of sexual morality, identity, and the lengths to which families will go to protect their own.
A Stellar Cast
Joining Jenna Coleman in this gripping ensemble is Ruby Stokes, known for her role in "Bridgerton," who portrays Ember's daughter. Their relationship is fraught with tension as they navigate the challenges of a broken family. "House of the Dragon" actor Tom Glynn-Carney lends his talents to the role of Ember's deceased husband, appearing in flashbacks.
Adding depth to the investigative team is Archie Renaux, who viewers might recognize from "Shadow & Bone," as Hitch, another detective with a personal connection to the victim's family. Ralph Ineson, renowned for his roles in "The Office" and "The Witch," leads the department as DI Morgan. Rounding out the cast is Weruche Opia, known for her performance in "I May Destroy You," who portrays Riz, the determined podcaster seeking answers in the town's past.
Filmed in Picturesque Yorkshire
While "The Jetty" is set in Lancashire, the series was actually filmed primarily in nearby Yorkshire, with additional locations around Manchester. The picturesque region's natural beauty provides a stark contrast to the unsettling mysteries at the heart of the story.
Hollingworth Lake, a Setting of Mystery and Beauty
Hollingworth Lake, spanning 118 acres, serves as the central location for "The Jetty." Originally the primary water source for the Rochdale Canal, the lake has a rich history and a captivating aura of mystery. Executive producer Elizabeth Kilgarriff described the lake as the perfect setting, noting its cold and deep waters, the mist that hangs over it, and the majestic swans that grace its surface. The lake's allure is undeniable, serving as a backdrop for the unfolding drama.
The Rowing Club and the Police Station
The Hollingworth Lake Rowing Club, with its stunning view of the lake, was chosen for scenes where DC Manning confronts suspects at a local pub. The rowing club's unique perspective allows the lake to be ever-present, adding to the tension and suspense of the characters' interactions.
The police station in the series was not a pre-existing building. The crew meticulously constructed a set within a building in Manchester, just a stone's throw from the childhood home of the show's creator, Cat Jones.
Critical Acclaim
"The Jetty" has garnered significant praise from critics, who have lauded its consistent stream of unexpected twists and captivating cliffhangers. In a review for "The I," the series was hailed as "the most gripping crime drama in months," with Jenna Coleman's performance praised as "the glue that holds the series together."
"The Evening Standard" highlighted the clever use of location, calling the setting a "stroke of genius" and noting how the picturesque lake seamlessly transitions from a serene beauty to an ominous presence.
Catch the Mystery
"The Jetty" lands on BBC iPlayer on Monday, July 15, with all four episodes available for streaming. Episodes will air weekly on BBC One at 9pm on Monday evenings. Don't miss the official trailer for a glimpse into the chilling mysteries awaiting viewers.
