Mr Loverman review – magnificent TV that will tear your heart open

"Mr. Loverman," based on the novel by Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo, explores the complexities of living what appears to be a fulfilling life that is actually rooted in deception. It’s a life that feels complete, yet is only partially authentic. The story, penned by Nathaniel Price, features Lennie James as Barrington, the character known as Mr. Loverman, or Barry among his friends. Barry is a charismatic 75-year-old with a flair for fashion, and the production skillfully takes us through the years, showcasing impressive costume design. He is portrayed as a prosperous businessman, a devoted husband, and a cherished father and grandfather.

He has been the hidden partner of Morris De La Roux (Ariyon Bakare) for over 50 years now. Their friendship began in childhood in Antigua, and they became soulmates as soon as they understood the meaning of the term. Their connection is truly special, and when they are together, the joy they share is almost tangible.

The fifty wasted years are a tragedy, leaving behind damaging consequences. This is especially true for Barry's wife, Carmel, who is portrayed with remarkable depth and emotion by Sharon D Clarke—an actress deserving of numerous accolades. For a long time, Carmel has suspected her husband of infidelity, although she believes he has cheated with multiple women throughout the years. The excitement she once felt at being chosen by "the most popular man on the island," as her cousin fondly reflects decades later, has soured. In her search for solace, she has increasingly immersed herself in the church community, particularly after leaving her job and the various avenues for happiness it and her colleagues provided.

Only the church, along with her daughter Donna (Sharlene Whyte) and her grandchild, manage to keep feelings of hopelessness at bay. Deep down, however, she desperately longs for Barry's love and cannot understand why that hasn't materialized, even with the life they've created together. Barry's assertion during a night out with Morris that “nobody can stay depressed around me” is simply not accurate.

Barry has reached a critical moment in his life. At 75, he feels the pressure of time and regrets flooding in. He confides in Morris that he's finally ready to leave Carmel and be with him, even if it has to remain a secret. Morris gazes at him with a mix of exhaustion and affection; they’ve been in this position before. Memories begin to unfold, showing how often they've gone through this and the toll it has taken on Barry’s devoted and humble partner. Yet Barry insists that this time is different. He promises to talk to her when she returns from church. No, he changes it to tomorrow. No, he’ll say something while driving her to the airport as she heads to Antigua to take care of her abusive, dying father, whom she hasn't seen in three decades. He never finds the right moment, but there’s a poignant conversation in the car that tugs at your heartstrings.

During their time apart, Carmel and Barry experience a more genuine and fulfilling life. Carmel uncovers her own hidden truths and shares aspects of her inner thoughts, while Barry discovers in London that secrets cannot stay buried indefinitely.

I might make it seem like a complete downer, but it's not that at all. There's a good mix of both brightness and darkness, much of which comes from Barry and Carmel’s overly dramatic younger daughter, Maxine (portrayed by Tamara Lawrance, who has a knack for comedy). The fact that each episode runs a crisp 30 minutes instead of the usual hour for this kind of drama helps keep things lively. However, it doesn't shy away from serious issues, such as the homophobia present in the family's community, particularly among Carmel’s group of Christian friends.

The narrative doesn’t hold back from highlighting Barry’s numerous shortcomings. As we observe his behavior and hear his thoughts, we witness the world as he experiences it. He comes across as self-centered, resentful, and often devoid of empathy. However, Mr. Loverman raises an important question: how can someone escape these traits when they grew up in an environment that stifled self-expression and faced discrimination based on their sexuality and race?

This story presents a distinct, edgier, and bolder perspective on the Windrush generation, contrasting with what we typically see on screen. It weaves together intimacy, vividness, conflict, and grief, exploring different kinds of love and how they can either flourish or become distorted under stress. Rather than being a fast-paced drama, it focuses more on the emotions and nuances of everyday life, showcasing the profound struggles and joys experienced by its characters, brought to life by highly skilled actors.