Red Riding
Red Riding

Red Riding

2009TV ShowEnded1 SeasonEnglish

Red Riding is a British crime drama limited series written by Tony Grisoni, based on the book series of the same name by David Peace. Comprised of the novels 1974 (1999), 1977 (2000), 1980 (2001), and 1983 (2002), with the first, third, and fourth of these became three feature-length television episodes, Red Riding 1974, Red Riding 1980 and Red Riding 1983. Three epic tales of murder, corruption and obsession. Utilising recurring characters and events, the Red Riding Trilogy recounts three series of gruesome crimes over a turbulent decade in Northern England.

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IMDb7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes96%
Metacritic85/100
Google Users93%
Director: Julian Jarrold, Anand Tucker, James MarshGenres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

Red Riding is a three-part British television crime drama anthology that explores a series of horrific crimes in Yorkshire during the 1970s and 1980s. Each installment focuses on a different investigator grappling with corruption, police brutality, and a vast conspiracy that seems to extend to the highest levels of power. The series weaves together a complex narrative of flawed heroes, unpunished villains, and the devastating impact of systemic injustice on individuals and society.

Critical Reception

Red Riding received widespread critical acclaim for its compelling narrative, atmospheric tension, and powerful performances. Critics lauded its unflinching portrayal of police corruption and its intricate, gripping storyline that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The series was often praised for its dark, gritty realism and its successful adaptation of the source material.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gripping and complex plot, full of suspense and intrigue.
  • Lauded for its atmospheric and authentic depiction of 1970s/80s Yorkshire.
  • Commended for its strong performances, particularly from the lead actors.

Google audience: Google users highly appreciated the series' dark and compelling storyline, finding it suspenseful and well-acted. Many viewers highlighted the intense atmosphere and the intricate plot as major strengths, though some found the bleak subject matter challenging.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a BAFTA TV Award for Best Drama Serial.

Fun Fact

The three films were originally intended to be released theatrically in the UK but were instead broadcast sequentially on Channel 4 as a television event.

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