After Pilkington (BBC-2 1987, Bob Peck, Miranda Richardson)

In the comedy thriller After Pilkington University lecturer James (Bob Peck) meets up with the mysterious Penelope aka Patch (Miranda Richardson), whom he first met when he was ten, she was a key figure in his early life and could make him do anything she wanted. Now she calls upon his help once again when she reveals that the mysterious Pilkington who is missing has in fact been murdered by Penny after making a pass at her. As James gets himself deeper and deeper involved he realises that Patch is in fact completely crazy and he could just be the next victim on her list.

Some fabulous acting on display in this enigmatic mystery, a clever script by Simon Gray, which mixes mystery and humour to excellent effect.

The Trout Quintet by Schubert was played by members of the Oxford Pro Musica.

Series: Screen Two  Season 3 Episode 4

Cast:
BOB PECK as James; MIRANDA RICHARDSON as Penny; BARRY FOSTER as Derek; GARY WALDHORN as Boris; MARY MILLER as Deidre Pilkington; REINA JAMES as Amanda; SARAH BUTLER as Young Penny; RICHARD GRANT as Young James; DEREK WARE as Pilkington; NIGEL NEVINSON as Doctor; JOHN GILL as Pottsy

Writer: Simon Gray / Script Editor: Sarah Curtis / Costumes: Catriona Tomalin / Music: Stephen Oliver / Production Design: Graeme Thomson / Producer: Kenith Trodd / Director: Christopher Morahan

UK / BBC-2 / 1×85 minute episode / Broadcast 25 January 1987

Head of film reviews at The Viewers Guide with an erudite, insightful, slightly sardonic, deep appreciation for classic cinema. Has a habit of quoting obscure lines from old films in everyday conversation. He keeps a meticulously organized film logbook. He's a bit of a tea snob.