Review: ‘Joan’ Gives Sophie Turner the Chance to Shine
Sophie Turner delivers a captivating performance in Joan, a new drama that marks a turning point in her career. Known primarily for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, Turner steps into a completely different persona in this series, showcasing her range and depth as an actress.
Plot Overview
Set in 1980s Britain, Joan follows the story of Joan Hannington, a notorious British criminal known for her cunning and audacity. The series is inspired by real events, chronicling Joan's rise from a struggling single mother to a master thief and one of the most infamous figures in the British criminal underworld. Her journey is filled with twists and turns, as she navigates the dark alleys of crime while trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy for her daughter.
Sophie Turner's Performance
Sophie Turner delivers a powerhouse performance as Joan. The character demands a complex portrayal—she’s both tough and vulnerable, fiercely protective of her daughter while unapologetically pursuing a life of crime. Turner brings an authenticity to the role, making Joan a sympathetic figure despite her illegal activities. She captures the tension between Joan’s maternal instincts and her dangerous choices, embodying a woman who’s both desperate and fearless.
Turner’s nuanced portrayal allows the audience to see Joan not merely as a criminal but as a product of her circumstances—a woman pushed to the edge by society, who finds power in defiance. Her performance oscillates between charm and ruthlessness, making Joan both likable and unpredictable.
Direction and Writing
The series, directed by Richard Laxton, balances intense action with intimate character moments, giving Turner ample space to explore Joan’s psyche. The writing provides a layered narrative, where Joan's criminal endeavors are set against the backdrop of 1980s Britain, a time of economic hardship and social upheaval. The script does an excellent job of humanizing Joan, showing her motivations and the pressures she faces as a mother in a challenging world.
Cinematography and Style
Visually, Joan transports viewers back to the gritty streets of 1980s London. The cinematography mirrors the chaotic and high-stakes life Joan leads, with fast-paced scenes intercut with more contemplative, emotional moments. The period details—the fashion, cars, and music—add an extra layer of immersion, making the setting as compelling as the characters.
Themes
At its core, Joan is a story of survival and rebellion. It explores themes of motherhood, class struggle, and the lengths to which people will go to protect those they love. Joan’s story is one of empowerment, but it also raises questions about morality and the cost of living outside the law. The show doesn’t shy away from showing the darker sides of Joan’s decisions, but it does offer a compassionate look at why she makes them.
Final Thoughts
Joan gives Sophie Turner a well-deserved spotlight, allowing her to shine in a role that pushes her beyond the fantasy world of Game of Thrones. The series is a gritty, emotional, and thrilling exploration of one woman’s fight for survival, and Turner’s performance is undoubtedly the heart of it. With strong direction, a compelling narrative, and an exceptional lead actress, Joan stands out as a must-watch crime drama.