Watch Apple Tree Yard

Apple Tree Yard is an intense British television show that premiered in 2017, starring Emily Watson, Ben Chaplin, and Mark Bonnar. Based on the novel of the same name by Louise Doughty, the show depicts the story of Yvonne Carmichael, a successful scientist and mother of two who is married to Gary, an academic in her field.

The show starts with Yvonne’s encounter with a stranger, Mark Costley (Chaplin), in the Houses of Parliament, an event that leads her life to a catastrophic turn. Yvonne and Mark begin an affair that becomes obsessive and leads to disastrous consequences.

The show primarily revolves around Yvonne’s life, both before and after the affair. It explores her psyche and how her decisions and actions have affected her and those around her. Yvonne is depicted as a strong, independent woman who has always had a thirst for knowledge and success. She is a brilliant scientist, a loving wife and mother, and a loyal friend. Watson’s portrayal of Yvonne is raw and emotionally charged, and she brings out the character's inner turmoil and confusion effectively.

Chaplin’s portrayal of Mark is equally strong, and he is convincing as the charming, enigmatic stranger who takes Yvonne down a dangerous path. Mark’s character is intriguing, and the viewers are left guessing his true intentions until the very end.

The show explores several themes, including sexuality, power dynamics, and consent. Yvonne’s affair with Mark questions societal norms and challenges gender roles, with Yvonne taking sexual agency over her own life.

The show also depicts how power dynamics can spiral out of control, as Yvonne finds herself powerless in the face of her affair. In addition, it raises questions about consent and control, both within romantic relationships and society as a whole, and how easily they can be abused.

Apart from the central romance, the show also deals with several subplots that add depth to the story. Yvonne’s relationship with her husband Gary (Bonnar), her children, her colleagues at work, and her friends are all explored. The supporting cast, including Adeel Akhtar, Lydia Leonard, and Kezia Burrows, provide strong performances that add to the overall appeal of the show.

The show’s narrative style is non-linear, with the use of flashbacks and foreshadowing to keep the viewers hooked. The suspense and tension are maintained throughout the duration of the show, and the plot twists keep the viewers guessing until the very end.

The direction and cinematography are top-notch, with some breathtaking shots of London that add to the atmosphere of the show. The use of music and sound effects is minimal but effective.

In conclusion, Apple Tree Yard is a gripping, thought-provoking drama that explores complex themes through strong performances and an intricate plot. The show is not for the faint-hearted, and its mature content may not be suitable for all viewers. Nonetheless, it is an excellent example of British television at its best and a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Apple Tree Yard is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between January 22, 2017 and on Arrow Films