Watch Without Motive
- TV-14
- 2000
- 2 Seasons
-
7.2 (275)
Without Motive, a gripping crime drama series from the UK, premiered on ITV in 2000. It starred Ross Kemp, Kenneth Cranham, and Jamie Foreman in lead roles. The series revolves around the murders of several women in the fictional town of Ravenseat, East Anglia. Detective Chief Inspector Jack Mowbray (played by Ross Kemp), an ambitious and diligent investigator, leads the police team investigating the killings. Meanwhile, his troubled boss, Detective Superintendent Boyd (Kenneth Cranham), seems more preoccupied with his personal demons than with solving the case.
As the investigation progresses, Detective Mowbray and his team encounter a range of suspects and witnesses, each with their own secrets and motives. There is the ex-convict Terry Flynn (Jamie Foreman), whose rugged charm and criminal past make him a prime suspect in the eyes of the police. But as Terryâs relationship with one of the victims is revealed, Mowbray begins to see him in a more sympathetic light, even as the evidence against him mounts.
Other suspects include the victims' husbands and boyfriends, a sleazy nightclub owner, and a mysterious stranger who seems to be watching Mowbray's every move. As the investigation becomes more complex and dangerous, Mowbray must navigate a web of lies and deceit to uncover the truth behind the murders.
One of the strengths of Without Motive is its focus on character development. The show delves into the personal lives and motivations of its main characters, giving us a sense of their flaws, fears, and desires. The portrayal of Mowbray as a driven yet flawed detective, struggling to balance his work with his family life, is particularly effective. Kemp brings a raw intensity and authenticity to the role, making Mowbray both compelling and relatable.
Likewise, Cranham is excellent as the troubled and unpredictable Detective Superintendent Boyd, whose alcoholism and personal demons threaten to derail the investigation at every turn. Foreman also shines as Terry Flynn, a charming yet dangerous ex-con who is both sympathetic and unpredictable.
The show's writing is also strong, with well-plotted story arcs that keep the audience guessing until the final episode. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way, and the show doesn't shy away from tackling difficult and controversial themes such as domestic abuse, prostitution, and drug addiction.
Overall, Without Motive is a tense and engaging crime drama that is well worth a watch. Its strong performances, compelling characters, and intricate plot make it a standout entry in the genre. Fans of shows like Broadchurch, Line of Duty, and Luther will find plenty to enjoy here.
Without Motive is a series that ran for 2 seasons (12 episodes) between October 2, 2000 and on ITV