We don't like to admit it out loud, but we often have dark thoughts towards others. Praying that the manspreader on the tube would step on Lego, or maybe even wishing that a particularly unsavoury character would meet a grisly end. For the quiet, unconfident Rhiannon Lewis (Ella Purnell), she actually acts on those violent thoughts.
Adapted from the novel of the same name, Sweetpea is a darkly comedic thriller that'll have audiences in a frenzy over the many twists and turns throughout its six episodes, but also over their feelings towards wallflower-turned-killer Rhiannon. A receptionist for the local paper, she's either ignored or cast aside by colleagues, lovers, family, and just about everybody else. After a particularly horrendous day, Rhiannon snaps during an encounter with a drunk and makes her first kill.
With newfound confidence, Rhiannon fights her way into promotions at work, garners the attention of old flame Craig (Jon Pointing) and sweet new colleague AJ (Calam Lynch), becoming a twisted vigilante along the way. Murdering abusers and plotting to kill childhood bully Julia (Nicôle Lecky) is righteous work for Ella; cleansing the world of people who harm others. Creator Kirstie Swain cleverly keeps audiences on their toes about whether to side with Rhiannon right up until the final moments in episode six. The victims are truly dastardly, but the real-world effects of violent murder are rendered in gruesome and heart-breaking detail.
The beating heart of Sweetpea is, unsurprisingly, Purnell. Her expressive eyes and face get a full workout; from a powerfully empathetic frown that rivals Florence Pugh's, to a chillingly sinister grin when utilising Rhiannon's dark power. This is an anti-hero that will push the limits of how empathetic audiences will be towards her, but will no doubt cause feverish conversation and debate. The rest of the cast are excellent too; including Lecky's mean girl estate agent who is much more than a one-note villain, and Leah Harvey as Marina, a rookie police officer who's suspicion of Rhiannon is offset by similar feelings of under appreciation.
Sweetpea can feel like a lot at times, with so many different threads and plot-lines. Rhiannon becomes a junior reporter at work and uses it for career progression. Her father's house is being sold by her nemesis Julia and ex Craig wants to buy her dad's construction business. That's all on top of hiding her bloody secrets whilst the police are on her case. And that's just covers Rhiannon. But the writing and editing lets the narrative flow naturally, whilst keeping things manageable and engaging. Some big beats are made predictable for comedy and suspense, but others genuinely come out of nowhere without betraying the story.
All the intrigue, murder, and questionable ethics culminate in a truly devastating finale that successfully sets up a second season. With killer performances, a thoughtful narrative and thrilling turns, let's hope cast and crew get to continue Rhiannon's savage story.
Sweetpea premieres on Sky Atlantic and NOW on October 10.