'Joan' Review: Sophie Turner Like You've Never Seen Her Before
Based on Joan Hannington’s memoir, I Am What I Am: The True Story of Britain’s Most Notorious Jewel Thief, Joan is a captivating crime series adapted for television by Anna Symon. The show artfully explores themes of opportunity, motherhood, and the lengths one will go to achieve their dreams. Sophie Turner shines in the titular role as Joan, a young mother determined to take control of her life and attain the social status she desires.
Set in 1985 on the Kent Coast, the series opens with Joan celebrating her birthday in her modest flat above a Chinese takeout restaurant, enjoying a sweet moment with her young daughter, Kelly (played by the delightful Mia Millichamp-Long). However, their joyful celebration is abruptly interrupted when gangsters arrive in the middle of the night looking for her boyfriend, Gary. In a panic, Joan snatches Kelly and flees, setting off a chain of events that will challenge her in unexpected ways.
The series promises a blend of sharp storytelling and slick production, drawing viewers into Joan's world as she navigates danger and strives to redefine her future.
Over the course of six fast-paced episodes, Joan delves deeper into Joan's background and motivations, painting a vivid picture of her struggles. After relying on Gary for too long, she resolves to take control of her destiny. With no stable job or housing, she makes the difficult decision to place Kelly in foster care for her safety, prioritizing her daughter's well-being as she embarks on a new path.
Joan moves to London to work at her sister Nancy’s hair salon, portrayed by Kirsty J. Curtis. However, the job doesn’t provide the financial stability she desperately needs. The tension between Joan and Nancy, rooted in their shared traumatic childhood under an abusive father, adds another layer of complexity to the story.
As their strained relationship escalates, Joan’s dissatisfaction drives her to seek opportunities elsewhere, setting the stage for her transformation into the notorious jewel thief she becomes.
The series effectively blends emotional depth with thrilling plot twists, keeping viewers engaged as Joan navigates the challenges of motherhood, sisterhood, and her quest for a better life.
Joan’s fixation on wealth, combined with her talent for accents, ultimately steers her into the jewelry business. Initially working as a jeweler’s assistant for the overly familiar Bernard (Alex Blake), she quickly finds herself captivated by the allure of diamonds and precious gems. This environment ignites her ambition, prompting her to seek greater opportunities.
Her path takes a pivotal turn when she meets Boisie (Frank Dillane), an antique dealer known for his cunning methods of acquiring unique items. Their connection evolves into both a romantic and professional partnership, with Turner and Dillane’s chemistry strikingly portrayed on screen. Their relationship is complex, characterized by an intense bond underpinned by a layer of distrust, which adds depth to their interactions.
As Joan becomes increasingly entwined in this world of luxury and deceit, the stakes rise, setting the stage for her transformation into a skilled thief. The series deftly captures the duality of her character, exploring her motivations and the risks she’s willing to take to achieve the life she dreams of.
Joan excels in its storytelling, embodying the best traits of British drama with a focus on efficiency and engagement. The limited series avoids the clutter often found in American television, honing in on Joan’s fierce determination to reclaim her daughter, Kelly. Her singular drive keeps the narrative tightly woven, free from unnecessary subplots and characters.
Despite the looming dangers posed by volatile figures like Albie (Gershwyn Eustache Jr.), an associate of Boisie’s, Joan stands her ground, fiercely protecting her carefully crafted schemes. Her resolve and tenacity are compelling, making her a formidable protagonist.
The 1980s aesthetic is richly realized, enhancing the show's authenticity. Hair and makeup artist Kaleena Jordan, along with costume designer Richard Cook, contribute significantly to this immersive experience. Sophie Turner’s transformation throughout the series not only captures the era's essence but also reflects Joan’s evolution, adding a layer of realism that deepens the viewer's connection to her journey. The meticulous attention to detail in both visuals and character development ensures that Joan is both a gripping and visually striking series.
Joan's initial scams are relatively low-stakes, but as the series progresses, the risks escalate dramatically for both her and Boisie. While Joan initially presents her life of crime as glamorous, a pivotal deal in Episode 4 strips away the romantic veneer, exposing the harsh realities of her choices and the toll they take on her life.
The contrast between her euphoric successes and catastrophic failures adds depth to her character and raises the stakes significantly.
What makes Joan particularly compelling is Sophie Turner’s ability to convey the emotional complexity of her character. She invites the audience into Joan’s mind, revealing her natural talent for hustling and her sharp intellect. Viewers witness her transformation as she adeptly assumes various identities, from a sophisticated
British socialite to a frumpy American reporter. This versatility highlights her cunning and resourcefulness, creating a thrilling narrative filled with tension.
However, it's the relationship between Joan and Kelly that resonates most powerfully throughout the series. Their interactions are heartfelt and authentic, showcasing the deep bond between mother and daughter. This emotional connection makes Joan’s shocking decisions all the more impactful—while her choices are often morally questionable, the motivations behind them are relatable, leaving viewers both horrified and empathetic. The series masterfully balances the excitement of Joan's criminal escapades with the profound emotional stakes of her role as a mother.
At its heart, Joan is a compelling exploration of a mother’s relentless determination to secure a better future for her child. Joan’s drive to provide for Kelly serves as the backbone of the narrative, showcasing the lengths she’s willing to go to ensure her daughter’s safety and happiness. Yet, as the series unfolds, it becomes clear that Joan's motivations are layered; her desire for stability is intertwined with an increasing obsession for the power that wealth and deception offer.
As she navigates the dangerous world of crime, Joan finds herself captivated by the allure of the life she's building, often blurring the lines between her noble intentions and her growing ambition. This duality creates a gripping tension throughout the series, as viewers witness her transformation from a desperate mother to a savvy thief enthralled by the thrill of her newfound status.
Ultimately, the stakes rise, and Joan discovers that extricating herself from the tangled web she’s woven will come at a far greater cost than she initially anticipated. The series poignantly highlights the moral complexities of her choices, leaving viewers to ponder the true price of ambition and the sacrifices made in the name of love.
What did you think? Vote in our poll and drop a comment.
What did you think of the series premiere?
Loved it
Hated it
Comments