Joan bosses describe “huge responsibility” to stay true to true story

As a lifelong connoisseur of captivating dramas, I can’t help but be utterly thrilled about the upcoming ITV series, Joan. Having spent countless hours immersed in the intricate world of heists and diamonds, I’ve come to appreciate the artistry that goes into crafting such a riveting tale.

This weekend, the stage is set for captivating theater under the stars, and ITV brings you “Joan,” a highly-anticipated six-part series starring Sophie Turner from Game of Thrones, portraying the infamous jewel thief, Joan Hannington.

Indeed, given the context of capers, diamonds, and love affairs, it’s understandable to assume that Joan could simply be a character from fiction.

However, it should be noted that the narrative draws its basis from the real-life account of Hannington, whose adventures are chronicled in the 2002 autobiography titled “I Am What I Am: The True Tale of Britain’s Most Infamous Jewel Thief.

The screen adaptation of her story was a challenge that the team approached with utmost gravity.

During a press event for the series, producer Ruth Kenley-Letts (Stonehouse) expressed, “I truly aimed to ensure that Joan found satisfaction in our written scripts. I’ve always carried a heavy burden of responsibility to portray her story authentically.

Joan bosses describe “huge responsibility” to stay true to true story

As a dedicated cinephile, I found it absolutely crucial for my own satisfaction that she was content with the work we’d produced. Our approach was simple: Joan delved into our scripts.

We enjoyed ourselves immensely while reading the scripts since Joan’s agent and I frequently visited Joan’s apartment whenever a new one arrived. The three of us would then take turns in reading it aloud: Joan played Joan, I assumed all other roles, and Lucy, her agent, read the stage directions.

In my opinion, when working on someone’s story, it should be their narrative. I would find it heartbreaking if, upon completion, Joan felt that our work did not accurately reflect her memoir.

Similarly, Anna Symon, the creator and writer of “The Essex Serpent”, expressed that she aimed to portray the authentic intricacy within her character’s truth, yet she desired the freedom to deviate from the sequential order of her actions.

“We agreed it would be effective to draw inspiration from the book, selecting some truly astonishing passages that would seem implausible if they were part of a fictional storyline. For example, Boisie ironing his banknotes or Joan swallowing diamonds during inventory—these are scenarios I’d write in a script, only for someone to respond, ‘That’s preposterous; nobody could possibly do that.’

“I drew many anecdotes from the book, and I believe I managed to convey the emotional essence of the character, as suggested by Joan’s response upon seeing my work. This emotional truth and the spirit of Joan serve as the foundation for what I aim to create – a captivating, engaging television series.

In the latest installment, Turner steps into the role of Joan, with Frank Dillane (Renegade Nell), Kirsty J Curtis (Harlots), Gershwyn Eustache Jnr (A Spy Among Friends), and Laura Aikman (Archie) joining her as part of the ensemble cast.

“After Gary, her partner, flees, Joan sees an opportunity to begin a fresh chapter in life with her six-year-old daughter, Kelly. As she delves deeper into the world of crime, Joan encounters Boisie, a mysterious antiques dealer whose charm exposes her to higher risks and intense emotions.

Joan’s voyage is an intriguing tale of adaptation and endurance, marked by her keen intellect, magnetic personality, and extraordinary ability to mimic. It’s a risky, transformative adventure where she must constantly outwit and adapt.

Each time she’s involved in a heist or steals a diamond, it’s all part of her one goal – ensuring a safe and secure future for her child.

Joan will premiere on ITV and ITVX on Sunday 29th September at 9pm.

2024-09-26 15:35

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