An acclaimed period drama that has captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of 18th Century Yorkshire is currently available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, with viewers enthusiastically calling for a second series to be commissioned.
A Modern Take on Historical Crime
Directed by the celebrated television auteur Shane Meadows, The Gallows Pole: This Valley Will Rise offers a contemporary interpretation of the remarkable true story surrounding David Hartley and the infamous Cragg Vale Coiners. The series is adapted from Benjamin Myers' critically acclaimed novel, with Meadows bringing his distinctive cinematic vision to this fascinating chapter of British history.
Stellar Cast Brings Characters to Life
The drama features an impressive ensemble cast, including Michael Socha, known for his powerful performance in Chernobyl, who takes on the central role of the enigmatic David Hartley. Thomas Turgoose, familiar to audiences from Somers Town, joins the production alongside Sophie McShera of Downton Abbey fame, who portrays the pivotal character Grace with compelling depth.
Meadows has also introduced several talented newcomers to television audiences through this project, including Stevie Binns, Jennifer Reid, Soraya Jane Nabipour, Olivia Pentelow, Charlotte Ockelton, and Dave Perkins, all of whom deliver memorable performances that enhance the series' authentic atmosphere.
The Story Behind the Coiners
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Yorkshire's moorland hills during the eighteenth century, the narrative follows Hartley as he organizes a group of weavers and agricultural workers to undertake an audacious criminal operation. This enterprise would ultimately evolve into what historians recognize as one of the most significant frauds in British history, threatening to destabilize the national economy through their sophisticated counterfeiting activities.
Director's Vision and Historical Context
In an interview with Radio Times, Shane Meadows revealed his motivation for exploring this historical narrative, explaining: "I really wanted to delve into the history of this story and the circumstances that lead to an entire West Yorkshire community risking their lives to put food in their children's bellies."
Meadows further elaborated on his creative approach, noting that during workshops with the cast, he recognized an opportunity to expand upon Myers' original work. "A prequel that not only allowed us to understand 'why' the Cragg Vale Coiners did what they did, but maybe fall in love with them a smidge while they did it," the director remarked, highlighting the human dimension behind the criminal enterprise.
The director emphasized the relatable aspects of the story, adding: "It may have turned into one of the biggest crimes in British history, but it was pulled off by a bunch of destitute farmers and weavers doing what they had to do to survive, and I think people will resonate with that."
Critical Acclaim and Audience Response
The series has garnered substantial praise since its initial broadcast in 2023, currently holding an impressive 82 percent rating on the review aggregation website Rotten Tomatoes. One enthusiastic viewer commented: "Not what I expected from Shane Meadows, but loved it as much as the rest of his work. Michael Socha is a star!"
Another review highlighted the series' evolving quality, stating: "Another great series from Shane Meadows that gets better and better with each episode. Can't wait for season 2."
Recognition of Directorial Excellence
On discussion platforms like Reddit, viewers have particularly praised Meadows' distinctive directorial style. One observer noted: "I started watching it without knowing it was Shane Meadows, and within 20 minutes of the first episode, I knew it was Shane Meadows. The natural dialogue approach he takes is superb; conversations feel like real conversations with people talking over each other, etc."
This sentiment was echoed by another fan who declared: "I'll give anything that Shane Meadows makes a go. The guy is a genius," underscoring the director's reputation for creating compelling, authentic television.
With its compelling narrative, strong performances, and distinctive directorial vision, The Gallows Pole: This Valley Will Rise represents a significant addition to the period drama genre. The series is now fully available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, offering viewers the opportunity to immerse themselves in this fascinating story of survival, community, and historical crime.
