6.8 / 10 (based on 157 reviews)
A workaholic with a messy personal life, Helen West juggles gruesome cases of domestic abuse, sexual molestation and murder alongside her rocky relationship with policeman Chief Superintendent Bailey.
Genre: Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Amanda Burton, Conor Mullen, Nicholas Woodeson, Martin Freeman
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 3 episodes, 289-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Helen West (2002)
Jack Irish (2016)
7.8 / 10 (based on 3032 reviews)
Jack is engaged to find a missing person, only to be later framed for his murder. Jack is quickly caught up in a complex web of powerful vested interests that stretches from his home town of Fitzroy to a remote village in the Philippines.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Guy Pearce, Aaron Pedersen, Roy Billing, Damien Garvey
Creators: Andrew Anastasios, Matt Cameron, Andrew Knight
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 16 episodes, 52.0-minute runtime
My Life Is Murder (2019)
7.6 / 10 (based on 4138 reviews)
My Life is Murder follows the adventures of fearless private investigator Alexa Crowe, who solves the most baffling crimes as well as coping with the frustrations of everyday life.
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Lucy Lawless, Ebony Vagulans, Bernard Curry, Rawiri Jobe
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 20 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Keeping Faith (2017)
7.1 / 10 (based on 5442 reviews)
Faith, a small-town Welsh lawyer, is forced to cut short her extended maternity leave when her husband and business partner, Evan, goes missing. As the truth of his actions surface, Faith must fight to protect her family and her sanity.
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Eve Myles, Bradley Freegard, Mark Lewis Jones, Hannah Daniel
Creators: Matthew Hall
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 20 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Blood (2018)
7.1 / 10 (based on 2686 reviews)
Cat Hogan returns to West Meath upon her mother’s sudden death – she has an accident at home and died (or was it an accident?). Blood is about old secrets, older betrayals, mind games and the lies family tell each other.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Adrian Dunbar, Grainne Keenan, Sean Duggan, Diarmuid Noyes
Creators: Sophie Petzal
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 12 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
In the realm of television, certain shows manage to carve out a niche for themselves, quietly amassing a loyal fanbase without necessarily dominating mainstream media headlines. “Helen West” is one such series. Premiering in 2002, it’s a British crime drama that might not have been on everyone’s radar but is undeniably worth a watch. This article takes a closer look at what makes “Helen West” stand out, without resorting to the usual cliches or flowery language. Let’s get to the point.
The Basics of “Helen West”
“Helen West” is a series that focuses on the life and work of the titular character, a Crown Prosecutor played by Amanda Burton. The show is set in London and explores the complexities of both Helen’s professional and personal life. It’s based on the books by Frances Fyfield, which already sets it apart from many crime dramas that often rely on original screenplays.
The series consists of three episodes, each about an hour and a half long. This format is somewhat typical for British TV, where quality often trumps quantity. Each episode deals with a different case, ranging from domestic violence to murder, showcasing Helen’s dedication to seeking justice.
Why It Stands Out
Realistic Portrayal of Legal Work
One of the first things that sets “Helen West” apart is its realistic portrayal of the legal system. Unlike many crime dramas that focus almost exclusively on the police or detectives, this series gives viewers a glimpse into the life of a prosecutor. It shows the challenges Helen faces, from gathering sufficient evidence to dealing with legal loopholes. It’s a refreshing perspective that adds a layer of complexity to the usual crime-solving narrative.
Strong Female Lead
In a genre often dominated by male protagonists, Helen West is a breath of fresh air. Amanda Burton delivers a powerful performance, portraying Helen as both formidable in her job and human, with her vulnerabilities. The series doesn’t shy away from exploring the toll her demanding career takes on her personal life, including her relationship with her partner, played by Conor Mullen. This nuanced character development is something that fans of the series appreciate deeply.
Focus on Social Issues
“Helen West” doesn’t just use its cases as a backdrop for dramatic storytelling; it delves into the social issues underlying these crimes. From exploring the dynamics of abusive relationships to the impact of crime on communities, the series prompts viewers to think critically about the world around them. It’s this aspect that often leaves a lasting impression, making the show more than just a source of entertainment.
Memorable Episodes
Each episode of “Helen West” is crafted with care, but there are moments that stand out for their storytelling and emotional impact. For instance, the first episode, “A Clear Conscience,” delves into the murky waters of domestic violence. It’s a powerful introduction to Helen’s world, showcasing her determination to bring justice to victims whose voices are often silenced. The episode doesn’t just aim to shock; it aims to shed light on a pervasive issue, making it a compelling watch.
Then there’s “Shadow Play,” an episode that combines the intrigue of a murder case with the exploration of mental health issues. It’s a prime example of how the series blends crime-solving with deeper social commentary, making viewers ponder long after the credits roll.
Behind the Scenes
The success of “Helen West” isn’t just due to its on-screen elements. The show’s behind-the-scenes team, from the writers to the directors, plays a crucial role in bringing the stories to life. The adaptation of Frances Fyfield’s books required a careful balance of staying true to the source material while also making the stories work for television. The series’ creators managed this with finesse, preserving the essence of Helen West’s character and the themes of the books.
Moreover, the choice of London as the setting adds another layer to the series. The city’s diverse landscape, from bustling streets to quiet neighborhoods, mirrors the complexity of the cases Helen tackles. It’s a character in its own right, contributing to the show’s atmosphere.
Legacy and Impact
Despite its relatively short run, “Helen West” has left a lasting impact on its viewers. It’s a series that challenges the norms of the crime drama genre, offering something that’s both thought-provoking and deeply human. Its focus on a strong female lead, combined with its exploration of social issues, makes it a standout show.
For fans of crime dramas looking for something a bit different, “Helen West” is a hidden gem. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most compelling stories are those that reflect the complexities of real life, rather than just the sensational aspects of crime.
In conclusion, “Helen West” is more than just another entry in the crowded field of crime dramas. It’s a series that manages to be both engaging and meaningful, thanks to its realistic portrayal of the legal system, strong character development, and willingness to tackle tough social issues. While it may not have the same level of recognition as some of its contemporaries, its quality and impact are undeniable. For those who haven’t yet discovered this series, it’s definitely worth a watch.