This period drama brings to life the remarkable true story of a legal crusade led by the creator of Sherlock Holmes. Set in 1903, the narrative follows an aging Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, played by Martin Clunes, who finds himself stuck in a cycle of grief following the death of his wife. His spark returns when he encounters the plea of George Edalji, a young Parsi solicitor recently released from prison. George was convicted for a series of strange animal mutilations known as the Great Wyrley Rippings, a crime he insists he did not commit.
Believing the conviction was fueled by prejudice and flawed evidence, the author takes on the role of a real life detective. Accompanied by his loyal secretary Woodie Wood, the writer travels to Staffordshire to uncover the truth. The investigation forces him to deal with local hostility and police incompetence while he struggles with his personal feelings for Jean Leckie. Based on the novel by Julian Barnes, the series highlights a significant moment in British legal history that eventually led to the creation of the Court of Criminal Appeal.
Production Details
UK / ITV – Buffalo Pictures / 3×60 minute episodes / Broadcast 2015
Writer: Ed Whitmore
Novel: Julian Barnes
Producers: Philippa Braithwaite, Trevor Hopkins
Director: Stuart Orme
Main Cast
Martin Clunes as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Arsher Ali as George Edalji
Art Malik as Reverend Shapurji Edalji
Emma Fielding as Charlotte Edalji
Charles Edwards as Woodie Wood
Hattie Morahan as Jean Leckie
Sandra Voe as Mam
