Trespasses: Trailer, certificate and where to watch
Heartbreaking drama set in 1970s Northern Ireland
Year: 2025
Certificate: 15
A funny, moving and passionate love story set during the Troubles, in Belfast, 1975, this four-parter follows the forbidden romance between 24-year-old Catholic schoolteacher Cushla Lavery (Lola Petticrew) and middle-aged Protestant solicitor Michael Agnew (Tom Cullen).
Based on the prize-winning debut novel by Louise Kennedy, who grew up County Down, it's told from Cushla's point-of-view and is mostly about her awakening, both sexual and political. But as with the novel, it's the detail of what surrounds Cushla that gives the story its vibrancy and heart. That detail encompasses everything from seething tension and shocking violence to burning, clandestine passion and the sweet-natured innocence of children. It's a heady mix, brought beautifully from page to screen.
The cast are all outstanding. Petticrew made her name in another Troubles drama, the acclaimed Say Nothing, while Cullen (The Gold) gives Michael enough depth (and sex appeal) to make us fall in love with him just as Cushla does. Although she's not in many scenes, special mention goes to Gillian Anderson as Cushla's battle-weary drunk of a mother Gina - dishevelled and electrifying even when passed out in the kitchen. (Four episodes)
