Fans of dark, compelling and emotionally charged crime dramas are set for a real discovery, as an under appreciated treasure available free on BBC iPlayer is being praised as an ‘outstanding’ production featuring ‘some of the best acting’ witnessed on the small screen.

Combining powerful character development with disturbing criminal cases at its core – much like the critically acclaimed Broadchurch – this true crime series has captivated audiences.

The three-episode true crime series has gripped viewers, with countless reviews celebrating the cast’s portrayals and the sensitive handling of these real-life events.

Rillington Place is a biographical crime drama – ideal for devotees of hard-hitting programmes such as Broadchurch – which examines the authentic case of John Christie, one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers, and the miscarriage of justice that led to Timothy Evans’ wrongful execution.

The crime drama Rillington Place explores the domestic existence of John Christie and his wife Ethel, while John carried out multiple murders supposedly without his wife’s knowledge.

The programme’s three instalments each present events through the perspective of its three central figures – John Christie, Ethel Christie, and Timothy Evans – the couple’s upstairs tenant who was wrongfully put to death for John’s crimes. Helmed by Craig Viveiros, Rillington Place debuted on BBC One in November 2016.

The production features an outstanding Tim Roth as John Christie, with his chilling performance earning widespread acclaim. Samantha Morton portrays Ethel Christie, Nico Mirallegro takes on Timothy Evans, and Jodie Comer appears as Beryl Evans – all receiving recognition for their exceptional work.

View 4 Images

The ‘outstanding’ crime drama is streaming free on BBC iPlayer(Image: BBC/Des Willie)

The true crime drama secured a BAFTA for Best Photography and Lighting: Fiction and received a nomination for Best Production Design.

As 10 Rillington Place – the property where John carried out murders and concealed several victims – was torn down in the early 1970s, the home’s interior spaces were reconstructed at BBC Scotland’s Dumbarton Studios near Glasgow. External street scenes were shot in the car park of the same facility, while several additional Scottish locations stood in for London.

The true crime production has attracted acclaim across the board, with one reviewer writing: “All very grim and ominous, but the first part of Rillington Place is a slow burn that’s never anything short of completely captivating.”

A second reviewer said: “Rillington Place is a solid miniseries that is worth watching.”

While another critic added: “The story is as grisly and horrific as you might expect.”

View 4 Images

The entire cast has been lauded for their stellar performances(Image: BBC/Des Willie)

One IMDB user review of the series said: “Excellent Creepy Drama. Well… this was an outstanding retelling of the murders committed by the extremely creepy soft spoken Mr Christie who was brilliantly played by Tim Roth. It was a very dark, superbly written three part drama. The cast did a stellar job in bringing the characters to life. I highly recommend this series especially if you like true life crime dramas.”

Another fan praised the performances: “The acting, done by all, is hands down some of the best I’ve seen. Tim and Samantha did not miss a beat. I, also, couldn’t be more pleased with every single person’s amazing performances. I’m disappointed this did not receive the credit it deserves in the awards arena. It draws you in and doesn’t let go. If you love dark, slow, and terrifying then this is for you!”.

While one audience review reads: “Three episodes, each a compelling and enthralling watch. The acting is flawless and even the minor-part actors were genuine. So good, I watched them all twice within the same week. You won’t be disappointed.”

One fan shared: “Good to the last drop. They don’t make many well acted murder series from the perspective of the killer. This series is certainly interesting and well made. It makes a difference when you have actors who are at the top of their craft.”

Rillington Place is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.