Ruth Ellis was the final woman executed in the United Kingdom, having been hanged in 1955 following the tragic shooting of her abusive partner. Three decades later, Mike Newell directed the film Dance With a Stranger, featuring Miranda Richardson and Rupert Everett to narrate her story. This year, Lucy Boynton, known for her roles in Bohemian Rhapsody, Murder on the Orient Express, and The Politician, takes on the role of Ellis in the new four-part drama series A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story. The series is set to premiere in the U.S. on streaming platform BritBox on Monday, with an intention to convey Ellis’ experiences from her own perspective.
Produced by ITV Studios’ Silverprint Pictures for ITVX, where it will debut in March, the drama is based on Carol Ann Lee’s biography A Fine Day for a Hanging: The Real Ruth Ellis Story. The cast includes Toby Jones as Ellis’ attorney, alongside Laurie Davidson, Mark Stanley, Joe Armstrong, Arthur Darvill, Juliet Stevenson, Toby Stephens, Amanda Drew, and Bessie Carter.
The script was penned by Kelly Jones, with Angie Daniell as producer and Lee Haven Jones directing all four episodes.
Initially unfamiliar with Ellis’ history, Boynton expressed her fascination with the opportunity to bring her story to light. "When I asked those around me, particularly older individuals, everyone had a strong emotional response," she shared with THR. "I was surprised that I hadn’t learned about her considering the significant impact of her case on the U.K. judicial system. She is a key figure in our socio-political history."
Boynton referred to her research into the era as “an immense education,” emphasizing how understanding the societal context of the 1950s shed light on Ellis as a person: “My research helped clarify both her identity and the dynamics she navigated." She regarded Lee’s biography as her guiding source for portraying Ellis authentically.
Given the intricacies of Ellis’s character and story, Boynton praised Kelly Jones’ writing for offering a nuanced portrayal of Ruth. “What struck me was the balanced representation of her character, avoiding favoritism and instead focusing on humanizing her after a history of media misrepresentation," she remarked. "This balanced approach helped convey the complexities of her actions as she navigated both darkness and light in her decisions."
Boynton typically employs an analytical approach to character development, stating, “I collect as many facts as possible and start understanding their psychological makeup and unique traits.” In Ellis’s case, she found a deep level of empathy, revealing, “Her fierce circumstances and the trauma she experienced made it easier to connect with her essence.”
Boynton believes that BritBox was right to bring the series to a U.S. audience. “This story transcends borders – it incorporates themes of gender dynamics, class issues, and political undertones, making it relatable on a global scale,” she explained. While rooted in the British context, the emotional and relational dynamics within the narrative resonate universally.
Filming intense scenes depicting domestic violence was challenging for Boynton. “Even though I knew it was fictional, my body reacted to performing such scenes. The hardest part was the knowledge that this was a true narrative, one that still reflects the struggles faced by many today." She expressed gratitude for her collaborative team, especially intimacy coordinator Sophie Cooch, who supported her throughout the emotionally taxing filming process.
Boynton also commended her co-star Davidson, who portrayed Ellis’ partner David Blakely, highlighting his ability to portray the darker nuances of his character effectively, allowing the audience to grasp the emotional hazards inherent in their relationship.
Additionally, she cherished the opportunity to work alongside the esteemed Toby Jones, saying, “I have immense respect for his artistry and choices. Collaborating with someone of his caliber enriches the process.”
Ultimately, Boynton feels privileged to bring Ruth Ellis’s compelling story to a wider audience, stating, “I am fortunate to be part of an industry that is increasingly committed to exploring women’s narratives. It’s a crucial time to reevaluate how judicial systems respond to women, as many still experience shortcomings today.”
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Lucy Boynton on Ruth Ellis Series on Last Woman Hanged in Britain
