The TV series “Trespasses” is an adaptation of Louise Kennedy’s novel, written by Ailbhe Keogan, and it tells the story of Cushla, a Catholic primary-school teacher in her mid-20s living in a small town outside Belfast in 1975. The show is set against the backdrop of the Troubles, with rancour, suspicion, and grief shadowing every moment of Cushla’s life. She takes an interest in a Protestant boy and his family, and her actions put her at risk of violence from both sides. Meanwhile, she works shifts in her brother’s pub, where British soldiers frequent and tensions run high.
Cushla’s life becomes even more complicated when she meets Michael Agnew, a Protestant barrister who defends young Catholics and is a target for violence from both sides. Despite being married and significantly older, Michael is charismatic and charming, and Cushla finds herself drawn to him. As they begin an affair, Cushla must navigate the dangers of their relationship, all while dealing with her own family’s struggles, including her widowed mother’s loneliness and addiction.
The show explores the tragedy of sweethearts caught up in conflict, and how their love is overcome by others’ hate. The narrative is constructed with skill, with small moments and minor characters turning out to be crucial to the story. The show’s politics are nuanced, avoiding a simplistic “both sides are as bad as each other” approach, instead focusing on the human cost of the conflict and the pain of individuals caught in the midst of it.
The cast, including Lola Petticrew as Cushla and Tom Cullen as Michael, deliver strong performances, with Petticrew bringing a sense of care and nuance to her portrayal of Cushla. The show’s use of the Troubles as a backdrop adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more than just a collection of familiar melodramas. As the series progresses, the strands of the narrative come together, revealing agonizing ironies and a devastating conclusion. Overall, “Trespasses” is a powerful and moving drama that explores the human cost of conflict and the power of love and relationships to transcend even the most difficult circumstances.