Watch The Silence

The Silence is a four-part psychological thriller created by Fiona Seres and directed by Dearbhla Walsh. The show premiered in July 2010 on BBC One and has since been released internationally. The show centers around Amelia Edwards, played by Genevieve Barr, a 16-year-old deaf girl who witnesses the murder of her foster mother, Sarah, played by Dervla Kirwan. The investigation is headed by Detective Jim Edwards, played by Douglas Henshall, a family friend who is dealing with his own personal issues. Hugh Bonneville also stars as Ralph Mitchell, a successful architect and Sarah's partner, who becomes a prime suspect.

As the investigation progresses, secrets and lies are exposed, and the evidence begins to point in unexpected directions. The show explores the challenges faced by Amelia navigating a world that doesn't always accommodate her needs, as well as the ways in which her disability impacts the investigation.

One of the strengths of the show is its portrayal of Amelia and her experiences. While deaf characters have been featured in other shows before, The Silence offers a nuanced and authentic portrayal of living with deafness. The show was praised for its use of sign language, as well as its incorporation of sound design to allow non-deaf viewers to understand the experience of being deaf.

The Silence also delves into the characters' personal lives, examining the impact of trauma and grief. Detective Jim is haunted by the death of his own daughter, while Ralph struggles with his own secrets and the pressure of being a suspect. The show offers complex and layered characters, making it more than just a typical crime drama.

The production values are also noteworthy, with beautiful cinematography and a haunting score. The show's pacing is deliberate, allowing for the tension to build gradually over the course of the four episodes. The final episode offers a satisfying conclusion, although it also leaves some lingering questions.

Overall, The Silence is a well-crafted and gripping thriller that also offers thought-provoking commentary on disability and grief. The show's strong performances and attention to detail make it a standout from other crime dramas.

The Silence is a series that ran for 2 seasons (12 episodes) between July 12, 2010 and on BBC