Falling review: Paapa Essiedu and Keeley Hawes are on top form in this unconventional love story

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A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Infidelity is a frequent plot point on TV dramas. But what happens when the one who’s been betrayed is God?

Although the premise – a nun and a priest falling in love – sounds like a simple joke, the series Falling is actually based on real events, and Jack Thorne skillfully explores the story’s emotional depth over six episodes. Unlike many TV dramas that quickly grab your attention, Falling takes a more patient approach, allowing the emotional impact to build gradually and ultimately feel more powerful.

David, played by Paapa Essiedu, is a relatable and humorous priest who recently arrived in Bristol. He’s proactive and wants to quickly improve the lives of those around him. This is shown through his past efforts, like starting needle exchange programs and installing a basketball court. However, his attempts to connect with Tina (Holly Rhys), a vulnerable teenager facing difficulties at home, are met with strong opposition from her controlling father (David Dawson), even escalating to violence when he suggests she consider joining a convent.

Anna, played by Keeley Hawes, is a calm, witty nun who has dedicated the past twenty years to her faith. She’s found a strong sense of family with the other sisters – especially a close, mother-daughter-like bond with a younger nun – and enjoys tending the convent’s garden. The current abbess, Niamh Cusack, is preparing her to take over the role. Neither Anna nor David is seeking a change in their lives, nor are they interested in finding romance.

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I was so captivated watching Anna! After just a little playful back-and-forth with David – the kind of thing you’d barely notice anywhere else – it clearly meant the world to her. She was incredibly brave to leave everything behind – her life in the convent – and just tell him how she felt. It was a huge risk, but seeing her follow her heart was amazing.

He’s unable to meet her halfway, to commit to the same level of dedication and trust she’s already shown – to let go of reason and follow his heart. This leaves Anna feeling deeply hurt and embarrassed. However, is their problem simply a matter of religious differences, or are there other issues they need to address if they hope to build a successful relationship?

The first episode establishes the show’s overall feel: it’s insightful, heartfelt, funny, layered, and features the close, personal conversations that Thorne is known for.

The success of this production largely depends on the performances of its actors, and both Hawes and Essiedu deliver brilliantly. They’ve both recently played complex roles – an assassin and a rebellious government official – proving their versatility. They skillfully balance strength with fragility, approachability with mystery, and seriousness with a playful sense of humor.

The characters in this story are complicated and have troubled pasts. At the beginning, Anna reveals she’s felt unsure of herself since becoming a nun, and David is staying with his sister and her children – a situation that will soon be explained.

Thorne’s writing, whether it’s ‘Help’ or ‘Adolescence,’ is marked by both kindness and honesty, but also acknowledges difficult emotions and harsh truths.

It would be simple to portray the Catholic Church as a rigid barrier to romance, or to make fun of its traditional practices. While the series does show some of that – like a conservative bishop, assigned prayers for a character seeking guidance, and a quiet dismissal of hesitation – it ultimately offers a respectful and understanding look at faith. It initially suggests that following your heart and following God are equally meaningful paths.

Falling is a celebration of community – the connections we have with others, and especially how important those connections are when we’re going through tough times. It’s a message that feels incredibly relevant today.

Authors

Gabriel Tate

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2026-05-20 00:34