Torn is a British drama series that aired in 2007 on ITV. The series explores the intricate dynamics of a family who is trying to overcome a series of challenges and betrayals. It follows the lives of the Bradshaw family, focusing mainly on the mother, Cathy, who has recently returned home from a long absence.
The series opens with Cathy returning to her hometown of Brighton after 15 years. She is a recovering drug addict and has been in rehabilitation for the past year. Cathy tries to reconnect with her three daughters, Jess, Becky, and Hannah, who are all dealing with their own issues. Jess is an overachiever who is consumed by her career, Becky is a single mother who has had a difficult past, and Hannah is a rebellious teenager who is struggling to come to terms with her sexuality.
As Cathy attempts to rebuild her relationships with her children, she must also confront the secrets and lies that were buried during her absence. Her husband, Dave, is struggling to cope with her return, as it forces him to confront his own infidelity. Dave's affair with Becky's best friend, Anna, is a major plot point of the series and has far-reaching consequences for everyone involved.
The series also explores the relationship between the sisters. Jess is the eldest and has always been the responsible one, while Becky is the black sheep of the family. Hannah is caught in the middle, trying to navigate her own identity while dealing with the fallout from her family's dysfunction.
Torn is a gripping drama that deals with a range of complex issues, including addiction, infidelity, family dynamics, and sexuality. The series is driven by strong performances from its cast, particularly Holly Aird as Cathy and Jo Woodcock as Becky. Bradley Walsh also shines in his role as Dave, delivering a nuanced and sympathetic portrayal of a man who is struggling with the consequences of his actions.
One of the strengths of the series is its writing, which deftly weaves together multiple plot strands to create a complex and compelling narrative. The show's exploration of addiction is particularly well done, avoiding cliches and presenting a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by those in recovery.
Overall, Torn is an excellent drama that explores a range of complex themes with sensitivity and nuance. Its strong performances and excellent writing make it a must-see for fans of character-driven drama.
Torn is a series that ran for 2 seasons (7 episodes) between September 19, 2007 and on ITV
