Ruth Ellis, a tragic figure in British history, holds the ignominious distinction of being the last woman hanged in the United Kingdom, following the fatal shooting of her abusive lover in 1955. Three decades later, Mike Newell's 1985 cinematic rendition, "Dance With a Stranger," starring Miranda Richardson and Rupert Everett, recounted her harrowing tale. Now, Lucy Boynton, renowned for her roles in "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Murder on the Orient Express," and "The Politician," embodies Ellis in the newly minted four-part drama series, "A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story." Premiering on Monday in the United States on the streaming platform BritBox, this series endeavors to narrate Ellis' narrative through her own eyes.
Produced by ITV Studios' Silverprint Pictures exclusively for ITVX, where it is slated for March release, "A Cruel Love" is grounded in Carol Ann Lee's biography, "A Fine Day for a Hanging: The Real Ruth Ellis Story." The ensemble cast boasts Toby Jones as Ellis' lawyer, alongside Laurie Davidson, Mark Stanley, Joe Armstrong, Arthur Darvill, Juliet Stevenson, Toby Stephens, Amanda Drew, and Bessie Carter. Kelly Jones penned the captivating script, with Angie Daniell serving as producer and Lee Haven Jones directing all four episodes with meticulous care.
Unfamiliar with Ellis initially, Boynton was instantly captivated by the prospect of bringing her story to life. "Upon inquiring among my elders, including my parents, I discovered that not only was Ellis a household name, but her tale evoked deep emotions," she shared with The Hollywood Reporter. "My ignorance about her astounded me, considering the profound impact her case had, particularly on the British judicial system. She is an indispensable fragment of our socio-political chronicles."
Describing her research endeavor as a "profound educational journey," Boynton reminisced about "grasping the 1950s' milieu and how it shaped her identity as a woman, thereby influencing her personality and interpersonal dynamics." Lee's biography, she noted, "became my beacon of truth."
Given Ellis' multifaceted nature and the complexity of her narrative, Boynton lauded Kelly Jones' "exceptional writing." She revealed, "Upon reading the script, I was struck by its balanced portrayal of Ruth. It refrained from favoring her in any manner, prioritizing her humanization and correcting the media's past misrepresentations." This approach paved the way for Boynton to "illuminate Ruth Ellis' decisions, encompassing both their light and darkness, and the myriad contrasts within."
She emphasized, "Ellis was a paradoxical and intricate individual, which makes my role all the more fascinating. Honesty prevails when one embraces, rather than shies away from, a character whose actions contradict perceived notions. This depth enhances the intrigue."
Boynton's methodology for immersing herself in a character reveals her analytical bent: "I strive to amass as many facts as possible, working outward from the character's exterior before delving into their interior. This dual approach allows me to uncover the psychological core, quirks, and operational patterns of the individual."
In the narrative of Ellis, "there was an abundance of empathy to muster," the leading actress confides to THR. "Her unique circumstances and the myriad trials she endured were overwhelming. Once you grasp the intricate dynamics of her family, the abuse she suffered at her father's hands, and the trauma she endured, comprehension dawns. Furthermore, her childhood and the financial hardships she grew up amidst paint a stark, vivid picture of her character. Empathizing with her, therefore, came somewhat naturally to me."
Boynton expresses no astonishment that BritBox acquired the series for American audiences. "It's a profoundly human tale—encompassing political undercurrents, gender dynamics, and class hierarchies. These are universal themes, making it easily relatable," she elaborates. "The British setting is particular to this case, yet Ellis's emotions, her personality, and the relationship dynamics strike a chord universally, feeling both familiar and accessible."
Given Ellis's prominent role in numerous scenes and the multitude of tragedies she endures, filming the drama must have been a daunting task for Boynton. "The scenes depicting domestic violence were particularly arduous," she reveals to THR. "Although rationally aware of their fictional nature and personal safety, the body reacts chemically nonetheless. The hardest part was acknowledging its basis in a true story—a story that remains true for countless individuals, highlighting a colossal, global issue. Thus, I was deeply appreciative of working with such a sensitive team, particularly our intimacy coordinator, Sophie Cooch, who was a beacon of solace throughout this project."
Boynton praises the entire team behind the series for their collective understanding of the story's significance and their commitment to bringing it to a broader audience, including those unfamiliar with the case. Davidson, portraying Ellis's lover David Blakely, "excelled in confronting the moments of genuine darkness and cruelty in Blakely's character, infusing the role with magnetism and charisma," Boynton adds. "Hence, one can fathom why people are drawn to Blakely and empathize with why Ruth felt secure and trusted him. Yet, there are fleeting moments, intimate to Ruth and the audience, where his demeanor shifts. These subtle flashes of cruelty provide insight into what it feels like when others overlook such behavior, fostering a profound sense of isolation."
Collaborating with the esteemed Toby Jones was another highlight for Boynton. "I hold his work and decisions in the highest esteem," she tells THR. "He serves as a true benchmark of quality. When dissecting scenes and deciding how to engage the audience, working alongside someone I trust implicitly is truly remarkable."
Above all, Boynton is grateful for the opportunity to bring Ruth Ellis's crucial and multifaceted story to the world. "I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be part of an industry that delves into women's narratives," the actress concludes. "Especially now, it's imperative to scrutinize how our judicial systems treat women, as they continue to be let down."
