Capaldi, Jumbo Tackle Truth in New ‘Criminal Record’ Season

New Series Explores Truth and Trust in a Fractured World

The second season of the Apple TV+ series ‘Criminal Record’ brings back stars Peter Capaldi and Cush Jumbo, not only as actors but also as producers. The show digs into a complex investigation that forces two detectives from vastly different backgrounds to work together. This season, their uneasy alliance is tested as they confront a city-wide plot and a shocking murder during a protest.

Capaldi, who plays a seasoned, perhaps old-fashioned detective, described his character as a ‘dinosaur’ compared to Jumbo’s ‘go-get young thing.’ Their characters, Detective Chief Inspector Tony McLean and Detective June Miller, ended the first season on bad terms. However, a new, urgent case in London brings them back together, requiring McLean to rely on Miller’s sharp investigative skills.

A Murder Ignites a Dangerous Investigation

The season kicks off with a violent incident at a large public demonstration. A young person is tragically murdered amidst the chaos, a shocking event that happens very quickly. This crime serves as the catalyst for McLean and Miller’s reluctant reunion.

Miller, played by Jumbo, initially wants nothing to do with McLean, whom she views as one of the most corrupt officers she’s encountered. Yet, the gravity of the murder and McLean’s clear need for her expertise offer her the only compelling reason to join the case. She knows McLean is always several steps ahead and rarely reveals his full hand, making any partnership fraught with suspicion.

Examining Truth today

Beyond the central crime, ‘Criminal Record’ tackles the broader theme of truth in today’s society. Capaldi highlighted how the show examines the devaluing of truth and the real-world impact of online influencers and social media. He stated, “If truth is no longer sacred, I don’t know how police officers are supposed to conduct their investigations.”

The series aims to show that despite the challenges, there are still individuals dedicated to defending the truth. The show’s writers worked on the scripts long before filming, yet the storylines, particularly the protest scene, felt incredibly topical due to the prevalence of public demonstrations in London. This focus on character-driven narratives allows the show to connect with timely issues organically.

Navigating Political Divides and Character Arcs

The public protest depicted in the series highlights the current ‘culture wars,’ featuring a clash between pro-Palestine and English nationalist demonstrators. Jumbo explained that the show doesn’t aim to dictate themes but rather to explore them through its characters. She noted that the character of Cosmo Thompson, a powerful social media influencer, would only work if the audience could understand his appeal, even within controversial online circles.

The series emphasizes finding the charm and humanity in characters, even those who might seem problematic. This approach allows the show to become deeply political and topical without feeling forced. The writers focus on creating believable characters whose struggles resonate, making the show’s exploration of societal issues more impactful.

A Unique Detective Dynamic

Unlike typical cop dramas where partners often learn to respect each other, McLean and Miller’s relationship is defined by their mutual distrust. Capaldi mentioned that his character is less interested in seeing the good in Miller and more focused on recognizing her struggles as her own worldview is challenged. “What we want to see, what he wants to see is the dark in her,” Capaldi said.

Jumbo added that her character doesn’t necessarily become more idealistic but rather faces the harsh realities that force her to question her values. The characters are not written to change fundamentally but to endure and adapt.

This approach offers a more realistic portrayal of individuals facing difficult circumstances. Their drive is simply to get through the day, a relatable goal amidst high-stakes police work.

Global Appeal and London’s Enduring Charm

‘Criminal Record’ has found unexpected success on Apple TV+, becoming a global hit. Capaldi expressed surprise at its popularity, especially outside the UK. He noted that while London has a unique atmosphere perfect for thrillers, he didn’t anticipate it would travel so well internationally.

Viewers have commented on the authentic portrayal of London, distinguishing it from more idealized depictions. The show’s gritty, realistic feel, combined with its exploration of generational conflict and the behavior of authority figures, seems to resonate widely. The city’s deep history and its role as a melting pot of cultures provide a rich backdrop for the series’ crime narratives.

From Stage to Global Stardom

Jumbo reflected on her journey from writing her own play, ‘Josephine and I,’ to becoming an executive producer on an international Apple series. She described the experience as surreal, especially working alongside Capaldi. Her path highlights the importance of taking initiative and creating opportunities, starting with self-produced work in small theaters.

She recalled using her last funds to stage her play above a pub, a far cry from her current success. Jumbo emphasized the need for aspiring artists to actively pursue their ideas. Her career trajectory, including a significant role on ‘The Good Wife,’ demonstrates how pursuing personal projects can lead to unexpected opportunities and international recognition.

A Nod to Classic Thrillers and Realism

Capaldi drew parallels between ‘Criminal Record’ and classic London-set thrillers like ‘The Long Good Friday’ and ‘Mona Lisa.’ He admires how those films used the city’s noirish atmosphere to enhance their stories. He believes London’s historical layers and constant influx of people create a perfect setting for crime dramas.

The series’ producers, including Capaldi’s wife, Ela Collins, and writer Paul Rutman, have a history with successful crime dramas, having worked on ‘Vera.’ This established creative team contributes to the show’s compelling storytelling and authentic feel. The focus remains on creating strong scripts that resonate with audiences, whether through intense character drama or thrilling action sequences.

Looking Ahead

The success of ‘Criminal Record’ season two suggests a bright future for the series. With its blend of compelling characters, timely themes, and authentic depiction of London, the show is well-positioned to continue exploring the complexities of truth, justice, and human connection. Fans are eager to see how the uneasy alliance between McLean and Miller evolves in potential future seasons.

Source: 'The World Is Quite A Frightening Place At The Moment’ | Peter Capaldi & Cush Jumbo (YouTube)