This week, I had the opportunity to watch a new TV drama called “The Sixth Commandment” on BBC One. As is the case with most TV dramas these days, it was based on a true story. Specifically, it revolved around a horrific murder that took place in England in 2015. The victim, Peter Farquhar, was a 69-year-old novelist and retired schoolteacher who lived a lonely life. The culprit, Ben Field, was a former student of Peter’s who deceived and ultimately killed him. Ben is currently serving a life sentence for his crimes.
One might wonder why a four-part TV drama was made about such a wicked individual. The creators of “The Sixth Commandment” may argue that it serves as a way to honor the victims of this monster. Some have even suggested that the show is a powerful plea for society to give more attention and respect to the elderly, who often suffer from loneliness that is frequently ignored. One character in the drama, Sheila Hancock, even expresses her belief that the elderly are being controlled by the world, which considers them nothing more than an inconvenience. However, it becomes chillingly obvious that this sentiment foreshadows what will happen to Peter Farquhar.
Critics have compared “The Sixth Commandment” to the works of Alfred Hitchcock, deeming it as outstanding television. But let’s be honest, the only reason this story is being told is because it ends with a gruesome murder and a sensational trial. After all, TV loves stories of this nature. While the show may touch upon social issues, it ultimately prioritizes entertainment value.
What about the victim’s family? Peter Farquhar’s brother has expressed reservations about the drama, stating that it turns their real-life trauma into mere entertainment. Even if the dramatists handle the sensitive aspects of this real-life tragedy with caution, exploitation is always a concern.
The actor Timothy Spall delivered a heartbreakingly vulnerable performance as Peter Farquhar, and it’s likely that he will receive accolades for his portrayal. But this only exacerbates the issue at hand. Should we really need the involvement of a talented actor and imaginative dramatists to care about a genuine tragedy? Does it take watching these characters wander through a church or engage in imagined conversations with their killer to spark our empathy?
Moving on to a different subject, Irish neutrality has become a contentious topic since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While many still support Ireland’s constitutional ban on joining military alliances and involving itself in foreign conflicts, the war has prompted a reconsideration of our responsibilities as a member state of the EU to protect Europe’s security.
These complex questions were explored in the final episode of “Iniúchadh TG4” on TG4. The journalist Kevin Magee interviewed people on both sides of the debate, including protesters monitoring US warplanes at Shannon and former Defense Minister Willie O’Dea, who saw no issue with providing military assistance to Ukrainian forces. It’s difficult to ascertain if the program itself was journalistically neutral. Magee’s interviews were fair and balanced, but the program seemed to lean towards those who believe Irish neutrality is under threat. The use of tense, dramatic music during certain scenes or the imagery chosen to represent military activities may have influenced viewers’ reactions.
I personally support Irish neutrality and understand concerns about the EU’s expanding military ambitions. However, for a proper debate on this matter, it is important to hear from both sides. Unfortunately, the program did not provide sufficient space for those advocating for greater involvement in international security.
On a lighter note, the return of “Only Connect” on BBC Two is a treat for Monday evenings. This quiz show, although incredibly challenging, is addictive and entertaining. Contestants must identify the connections between seemingly unrelated things. It’s a great opportunity to feel both baffled and amused. Kudos to presenter Victoria Coren Mitchell for starting the final “Missing Vowels” round with ABBA songs. Those are perhaps the only questions I stand a chance of answering correctly throughout the entire season!
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