Channel 4 has launched its latest crime drama, titled Patience, which is set against the scenic and historical backdrop of the city of York. Premiering on Wednesday night, this series dives deep not only to unravel complex crimes but also to spotlight the unique experiences of its neurodiverse protagonist, Patience Evans, portrayed by Ella Maisy Purvis.
An autistic police archivist, Patience is noted for her exceptional ability to catalyze connections between seemingly unrelated cases, drawing the attention of Detective Inspector Bea Metcalf, played by Laura Fraser. This intersection of characters sets the stage for predictable but engaging tropes found within the crime-drama genre—strong characters, challenging puzzles, and the inevitable 'unlikely duo' dynamic.
According to scriptwriter Matt Baker, who hails from nearby Pocklington, Patience taps deeply roots of York’s heritage. He noted, "You've got this incredible iconic skyline, the minster, Clifford's Tower and the Shambles—all this extraordinary living heritage and living history.” Such sentiments reflect both the narrative's need for ambiance and the city's underappreciated beauty.
Filming for the series included numerous York landmarks, among them Clifford’s Tower and Shambles, and also ventured to Antwerp, Belgium, showcasing scenic spots like Minster Gates and King’s Staith. Baker expressed enthusiasm when the city was proposed as the setting, stating, "The honest truth is this is a show...that fits so well...into the setting of York. It’s like a puzzle, with all the snickets and tiny little cut-throughs—it’s like a maze.”
This six-part series draws inspiration from the French drama Astrid et Raphaëlle. Through Patience's character, the series aims to challenge traditional representations, particularly the often-stereotypical portrayals of neurodiversity. Purvis, diagnosed with autism herself, expressed her view on the importance of authentic representation, asserting, "Neurodivergent people experience the world in such a unique way...it's really important those voices are being heard.”
Critics have offered mixed responses to the show. Brandishing praise for Purvis's performance, Carol Midgley from The Times describes her as giving "a fresh and convincing performance"—one which resonates starkly against the crowded crime genre. Meanwhile, amid the backlash, Chris Bennion from The Telegraph contends, "York is cruelly mistreated, used as a tourist backdrop, with absolutely no sense of place or of its people.”
The opening episode, focusing on Patience’s distinctive abilities and her layered experiences, lingered on the theme of autism, often through flashbacks during her childhood. Isobel Lewis from The i shared, "The opening episode provides a nuanced portrayal of the autistic experience,” which reflects the nuanced storytelling method the creators aimed for. They sought to depict not merely the challenges but also the strengths and distinctive perspectives of neurodiverse individuals.
Critics, including Lucy Mangan from The Guardian, highlighted issues with predictability and lack of depth. Mangan critiqued the approach to Patience’s character, remarking, "Look in vain for any nuance, any new insight... All the boxes are ticked,” raising eyebrows about whether the show meets contemporary audience expectations.
Despite these criticisms, the initial exposure of the series appears promising. Social media buzz indicates viewers are intrigued by the concept and execution of Patience. Early reviews will shape audience perceptions, but it is clear the show strives to create discussions around representation within media landscapes.
Matt Baker envisions York not just as the set for crime-solving but as integral to the storytelling itself, establishing parallels between its maze-like structures and the puzzle-solving themes woven throughout the plots. He said, "At the heart of the crime drama are these very knotty and complex murders...the theme of puzzle-solving...just seemed very apt.”
With subsequent episodes set to air, audience anticipation remains high, particularly around how the show's integrity and themes might evolve. Viewers are encouraged to immerse themselves within this unique crime-drama experience where the setting glimmers as distinctly alive and relevant, enhancing the narrative.