Stephen Poliakoff’s “Joe’s Palace” on BBC One
This was a fascinating drama for a Sunday night in front of the box. Award winning writer and director Stephen Poliakoff brought together a fantastic cast including the incredible Michael Gambon and the impossibly handsome Rupert Penry Jones. The story from seen through the eyes of Joe - a simple, naive boy recruited to man the door of a massive, unused Mayfair house.
Its billionaire owner, Elliot Graham, played by Michael Gambon, had inherited the house and his wealth from his father, but was paralysed by not knowing how his father had made his money. Richard (Rupert Penry Jones) - a charming government minister - ingratiates himself with Joe and begins to use the luxurious house to conduct an affair. The visits from Richard and his mistress, played by the beautiful Kelly Reilly, become the highlights of Joe’s time at the house and he increasingly looks forward to their visits, but is confused when Richard brings another mistress.
Honestly, it wasn’t entirely clear what the point of the story was, but it almost didn’t need a point. The characters themselves made compelling viewing without the need of any over bearing narrative. One theme was certainly loneliness. The loneliness for Joe in looking after an empty house was evident. Elliot Graham’s loneliness came from being a reclusive figure, awkward around others and with the nagging doubts he had about all the origins of his wealth.
Elliot eventually discovers the source of the riches left to him, and Joe plays an important part in the dramatic conclusion. I definitely enjoyed this and am looking forward to seeing the sister production, Capturing Mary, starring Maggie Smith and also centering around the eerie Mayfair house where Joe works.