The Sixth Commandment- Review

In a gripping new BBC series, 'The Sixth Commandment,' the story of unconventional love and an intricate web of manipulation is brought to life. This harrowing true-crime drama sheds light on the chilling case of murderer Ben Field and the gas-lighting abuse he inflicted upon his vulnerable neighbors. With insights from the cast and creators, including renowned actors Timothy Spall and Anne Reid, this series takes viewers on a journey through the disturbing realities of this shocking case.

Uncovering a Disturbing Love Story:

'The Sixth Commandment' explores the perplexing tale of cherished teacher Peter Farquhar (played by Timothy Spall) and the enigmatic student, Ben Field (played by Éanna Hardwicke). Set against the backdrop of their unlikely encounter, the drama delves into the strange and unsettling criminal events that unfolded. Field, a churchwarden, embarked on a campaign of harassment disguised as love, targeting Farquhar, a devoted Christian four decades his senior. Through manipulation, exploitation, and the pursuit of personal gain, Field ensnared Farquhar in a toxic relationship, ultimately leading to his tragic demise.

The Web of Manipulation:

Field's malevolent intentions did not end with Farquhar's murder. He then turned his attention to Ann Moore-Martin (played by Anne Reid), Farquhar's elderly neighbor. Under the guise of love and with a twisted form of gaslighting, Field deceived Moore-Martin and manipulated her into altering her will in his favor. Their relationship took a disturbing turn as Field scribbled biblical messages on her mirrors, pushing her to relinquish her home. Though Moore-Martin eventually passed away from natural causes, her revelations about divine commands alerted her niece to the ongoing manipulation. Field's fraudulent actions were exposed, leading to his conviction for defrauding Farquhar and Moore-Martin, as well as his minimum jail term of 36 years for Farquhar's murder.

A Story of Love and Deception:

Beyond the chilling crimes, 'The Sixth Commandment' explores the complex theme of love. Series writer Sarah Phelps emphasizes the contrasting notions of false love and genuine, profound connections. Farquhar's struggle to reconcile his desires with his faith resonates deeply, as he experiences both denial and the overwhelming fulfillment of finding a love he believed to be true. Actor Timothy Spall finds this internal battle to be the heart of Farquhar's character, highlighting the tragedy of a man who had resigned himself to a life devoid of love, only to find it in his final years.

A Different Approach:

Unlike typical true-crime dramas, 'The Sixth Commandment veers away from the usual focus on police investigations. Instead, the series prioritizes the lives and experiences of Farquhar and Moore-Martin, delving into their final years. Creator Sarah Phelps wanted to avoid glorifying the perpetrator and chose to highlight the victims and their families. By centering the narrative around their stories, the drama offers a poignant perspective on their lives, ensuring that they remain the central figures in this chilling tale.

Authenticity from the Source:

The authenticity of 'The Sixth Commandment' is rooted in extensive research and source material. Phelps delved into Farquhar's diaries, Field's workbooks, and a wealth of police transcripts to craft the series. Remarkably, Farquhar unknowingly narrated the unfolding events through his meticulous documentation. His diary formed the core foundation for the police investigation and subsequent prosecution, lending an incredible level of authenticity to the series.

A Cautionary Tale:

With 'The Sixth Commandment,' Phelps aims to raise awareness and caution viewers about the subtle manipulation and boundary transgressions depicted in the series. It serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and be wary of such trespasses in real life. The drama sheds light on the power of manipulation and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones.

'The Sixth Commandment' is a testament to the extraordinary storytelling that exposes the dark underbelly of human nature, leaving viewers with a haunting reminder of the profound consequences that arise from manipulation and abuse.