Joan review – Sophie Turner sparkles in this wild true story of a rags-to-riches jewel thief
Joan Hannington’s life story really makes you reconsider how you’ve been spending your time. How does someone rise above a childhood without love, an abusive relationship, and the struggles of being a poor single parent to become a skilled jewel thief and a significant figure in the world of crime, earning the title of the Godmother? Meanwhile, I can barely find the motivation to take a shower three times a week.
Hannington shared her story in her autobiography, I Am What I Am (later reissued as Joan), which has been adapted into this six-part drama. At its core, the show is a thrilling crime tale, but it also delves into the main character's backstory, highlighting Joan's drive to care for her daughter, Kelly (played by Mia Millichamp-Long), which adds an emotional layer to the plot. The stolen jewelry featured in the story is stunning. Joan's escapades kick off in the 1980s, an era defined by a culture of extravagance and display.
The show begins with Joan, played by Sophie Turner from Game of Thrones, showcasing her talent in a compelling role and mastering several accents. She is at a lavish hotel room, getting ready at her vanity. Her back bears scars that hint at a troubled childhood, yet she focuses on adorning herself in high-end fashion, accessorizing with sparkling jewels, and stashing away bundles of cash in her makeup case. With a striking red wig and more fur than Sansa Stark would wear, she exudes confidence with every move. Then, we flash back four months, revealing just how far Joan has come in a brief period.
In a fast-paced sequence typical of an exciting story, Joan is seen escaping from her abusive boyfriend, Gary. She faces threats from dangerous men who want to harm her and her daughter as payback for Gary’s mistakes, as well as pressure from the police, who expect her to inform on everyone involved. For her daughter's safety, Joan decides to place Kelly in care, believing she'll be able to retrieve her once she secures a stable home and a job. Desperate, she turns to her sister, Nancy (played by Kirsty J Curtis), for help. Although Nancy is hesitant, she agrees to let Joan crash on her couch for a few nights and offers her a position at her hair salon, with one condition: “No more of your crazy drama.”
Things quickly spiral out of control, and Joan finds herself working at a jewelry store run by a sleazy guy named Bernard (played by Alex Blake, whose mere presence is enough to make you uneasy). His questionable method of doing inventory after closing time drives her to escape yet again, though not before she manages to grab a handful of loose diamonds as she makes her exit. Sometimes, I can't help but think about how many stories there would be if men actually knew how to act and respected personal boundaries.
After a meticulous sorting process, we find ourselves on a new path following an unexpected meeting in a pub with a dubious antiques dealer and ex-con named Boisie (Frank Dillane). What begins as "just one job" for Boisie quickly turns into much more, especially due to Joan's determination to receive her rightful share. Her boldness and cleverness, combined with the tendency of men and targets to overlook her, position her perfectly for a profitable career and the gradual earning of the respect she has long been denied by the so-called respectable society.
It's really enjoyable to explore the authentic sadness and fears behind Joan's bravery, all while balancing the thrilling excitement and irresistible allure of her heists and smuggling adventures. In the two episodes we've seen so far, Turner skillfully ensures that we always remember the worried mother within the criminal, as well as the deep sense of desperation that motivates her actions.
By the close of the second episode, tensions begin to surface when Joan announces her intention to fully commit to Boisie—both emotionally and in terms of hard work—aiming to earn enough money to “prove myself to society.” While this may come off as bold, it feels inconsistent with the impulsive yet shrewd character we've seen in the first couple of hours. I'm also curious if a clever woman from the 80s would rely on social services as a temporary childcare solution without anticipating that events would play out just like they do for Kelly, although that’s just a small point of contention.
The engaging script doesn't require too much from the talented cast, featuring Gershwyn Eustache Jr. as Albie, Boisie's comfortably ominous best friend and accomplice. However, they deliver an enjoyable performance that provides a touch of escapism and a hint of suspense. It's perfect for enjoying a cozy autumn evening or two.
