Pack of Lies writers explain abstract opening sequence
Penelope and Ginny Skinner spoke exclusively with RadioTimes.com about their new offbeat BBC thriller series.
New BBC thriller series The Following Events are Based on a Pack of Lies not only features a unique title, it also features an offbeat opening sequence.
When viewers start watching the series, which focuses on the stories of two women who at different times find their lives impacted by conman Rob, they will see that the first episode starts with a sequence in which Rob talks directly to the camera against a red background.
In the sequence, Rob explains himself to the audience, justifying the acts he commits, which they are about to witness, but without apologising.
Speaking exclusively with RadioTimes.com, the show's creators Penelope and Ginny Skinner explained this bold opening sequence and why they wanted this to kick off the series.
Penelope said: "I suppose the line that you're treading is always, you kind of know that it's going to be a show about a con artist, but you want the audience to go on the journey of investing in him too, so that we understand why it is that the characters find him alluring or appealing."
Read more:
- Daisy Jones & The Six producers tease a potential second season and live concerts
- Luther, Peaky Blinders stars in creepy The Woman in the Wall trailer
Meanwhile, Ginny said: "There's an element of, because so many cons also take place on social media, in our minds, he's quite happy to broadcast it - he's not hiding."
"And I suppose perhaps he's doing the new thing of sort of weaponising the apology," Penelope added.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
The five-part series stars Alistair Petrie (Sex Education) as Rob, while Rebekah Staton (Doctor Who) plays Alice, a victim of Rob's from years before and Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Broadchurch) plays Cheryl, Rob's latest target.
The series also features Sir Derek Jacobi, who plays the UK's second favourite natural historian and broadcaster.
The Following Events are Based on a Pack of Lies will launch with weekly episodes on BBC One from 29th August. All episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer.
Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight.
Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.
