Sky Atlantic's new five-part drama, originally titled Inheritance and now presented as "Possession," is earning critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and atmospheric tension. Critic Christopher Stevens of the Daily Mail has awarded the series a perfect five stars, likening its chilling effect to classic Hollywood thrillers and the ominous tone of Daphne Du Maurier's novels.
The series unfolds against the backdrop of Jamaica, evoking a gothic atmosphere reminiscent of Du Maurier's Manderley, but with a distinct Caribbean setting. The drama delves into the island's violent history, exploring the complex emotions tied to mixed-race heritage stemming from both African slaves and European colonizers. Unlike typical portrayals of such sensitive subjects, "Possession" is noted for its nuanced characters and avoidance of a pious tone.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw stars as Claudia, a Bristol solicitor dispatched to Jamaica following the death of one of her firm's wealthy clients on his country estate. The estate, once a sugar plantation operated by slave labor, represents a fortune of £50 million. However, the deceased's son, Oliver Connaught (Jonny Lee Miller), is disinherited upon the reading of the will. Instead, the entire inheritance is designated for a mysterious individual calling himself Cudjoe East.
This premise sets the stage for a story that weaves together past and present. Screenwriter Karla Crome draws inspiration from classic cinema, creating a palpable sense of history overlapping with contemporary events. As the drama progresses, the narrative shifts back 200 years to explore the lives of Charlotte, the plantation owner's daughter, and Matthew, her illegitimate half-brother whose mother was a slave. Matthew, though educated, is caught between the roles of servant and pariah within his own family.
The arrival of Cudjoe East, who bears a striking resemblance to Matthew (both roles are portrayed by Sheldon Shepherd), introduces a new layer of conflict. East, described as wild-eyed and filled with anger, appears to be claiming his £50 million inheritance. Claudia, the pragmatic solicitor, finds herself deeply unsettled as she begins to recognize him and experiences recurring, disturbing dreams involving the estate, Matthew, and a locked box, suggesting a deep, personal connection to the unfolding events.
Stevens praises the series for its ability to materialize past horrors, citing a scene where a young woman's face slowly materializes at a window, signifying a descent into historical memory. The review suggests that the series successfully captures a feverish feeling, echoing the storytelling style of classic Hollywood and Du Maurier's ability to blend psychological suspense with historical intrigue.
