Jimmy McGovern child abuse drama Unforgivable leaves more questions than answers

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This article discusses child sexual abuse, which some readers may find upsetting.

Contains plot details that you may not want to know before watching Unforgivable.

A significant number of children who have experienced sexual abuse often suffer at the hands of someone they’re familiar with – a troubling fact that is explored in Jimmy McGovern‘s recent production, Unforgivable.

Renowned screenwriter has a long-standing fascination with stories of common folks, from his early days at Brookside to the gripping prison drama Time. Yet again, he sheds light on an average family residing in Liverpool, who are grappling with the aftermath of a disturbingly common transgression – it’s been estimated that about half a million children experience sexual abuse annually – perpetrated by someone within their circle.

Joe (Bobby Schofield), who was convicted for grooming and sexually abusing his 12-year-old nephew Tom (Austin Haynes), will be free after serving about half of his sentence once released.

Afterward, he transitions into a transitional home supervised by ex-nun Katherine (Anna Maxwell Martin). Katherine dedicates her life to tackling the root issues leading to criminal behavior, aiming to minimize potential harm to others in the future, as many prisons often fail to do.

But Katherine is also driven by a desire to help Joe change so he might begin to heal himself.

He pleads with her, ‘Can you help me?’ His eyes fill with tears as the weight of unanswerable questions hangs heavy in their brief 90-minute drama.

The title, Unforgivable, is one big question.

Will Joe ever be capable of change if he can’t learn to discard his self-loathing?

Will Joe’s family ever view him as anything other than an anathema?

In that pivotal scene, when Joe inquires from Katherine if there’s a cure for his condition – portrayed here as an affliction due to his attraction towards boys – it’s hard not to empathize with him, even in the slightest. I find myself contemplating what it might be like to carry such a heavy burden, a sin that he seems to flee only when sleep eventually comes.

Expressing anything other than revulsion and disdain towards perpetrators of such crimes might seem unnatural or difficult for most people. However, it’s something that filmmaker McGovern, motivated by a letter he received from a woman working with sex offenders, felt “compelled” to address in his film Unforgivable. His aim is for viewers to leave the movie having gained insights about child abuse.

Despite discussing individuals who have committed heinous acts of child abuse, it is essential that we maintain empathy towards them, he stated. Strict caution, appropriate punishment, and pursuit of justice are necessary, but compassion should not be forgotten. These are grave offenses that demand a stern response, and imprisonment may be required in such cases.

“But alongside all that, an element of compassion. To understand a bit more and equally condemn.”

The topic is thought-provoking, yet it’s handled in a non-confrontational manner, which is a skill that McGovern excels at, as he consistently chooses realistic and authentic writing over dramatic or sensational approaches.

In the course of time, it becomes clear that Joe had experienced sexual abuse as a child, with Paul (Mark Womack) – his football coach and a familiar figure in his family – being the perpetrator.

According to McGovern, this movie does not show any leniency towards child abusers. He clarifies that this information is not used to justify Joe’s actions or manipulate the audience’s sympathy. However, it could potentially change the way viewers see Joe.

Additionally, it transpires that Sammy, previously a teammate of Joe (Paddy Rowan), experienced abuse at the hands of Paul. Fortunately, there’s no record of him passing on such mistreatment to others.

In his analysis, McGovern, who tackled the complex and contentious matter with honesty and a desire for productive discussion, deemed it essential to incorporate this particular variable.

He shared with the BBC that as he interacts with individuals and finds them intriguing, he becomes deeply engrossed in the tales he spends his professional life narrating.

“I always say to people, ‘Why write about things that do not matter?'”

It’s clear that everyone acknowledges its significance, despite the fact that it’s often an uncomfortable topic to discuss. Seldom will there be instances in Unforgivable where you won’t find yourself feeling deeply saddened, nauseous, or completely drained of emotions.

It’s crucial that we discuss this significant and complex issue given its magnitude, and an author like McGovern, who has a unique ability to handle something so difficult with care, can encourage us to step out of our silent dismay and actively participate in addressing it, despite its challenging nature.

As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that “Unforgivable” surpasses expectations in every way. Yet, it’s not just the gripping plotlines that captivate; there’s a profoundly human element to McGovern’s writing that makes you feel secure, leading us gently towards the uncomfortable and compelling us to linger when we’d rather look away.

The text leaves a lasting impression, with particular scenes standing out prominently. One such instance is when Tom inquires about a cup of tea for his mother, marking the first extended conversation they’ve had since his uncle committed sexual assault against him.

The brilliance of McGovern’s writing has always been in the smallest of details.

You’ll also be left with more questions.

How many other boys has Paul abused? And will he ever face justice for what he’s done?

How many other Pauls are there?

How many other Toms are there?

In numerous aspects, “Unforgivable” fails to deliver as a satisfying viewing experience, not due to any faults by McGovern, but rather because it delves into chaos, pain, and a multitude of unanswered questions which it does not provide solutions for.

Despite all this, its impact remains undiminished. In fact, it might resonate even more profoundly, a testament to the enduring power of McGovern’s work, one of our most significant cultural assets.

And that is the mark of truly great storytelling.

For those who are impacted by this narrative, assistance is available through the NSPCC’s website. Additionally, you may reach out to them via their helpline at 0808 800 5000.

Unforgivable is now available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

“Don’t forget to add ‘Unforgivable’ to your list on TopMob’s ‘What to Watch’ app – grab it today for personalized TV suggestions, features, and much more!

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2025-07-24 16:34