Disturbing 2006 True-Crime Drama 'See No Evil: The Moors Murders' Finds New Life on Netflix
Key Insights
Subject Matter:: The drama recounts the horrific Moors Murders committed by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley between 1963 and 1965, responsible for the deaths of five children and young people.
Unique Perspective:: The story is told primarily through the eyes of Myra Hindley's sister, Maureen Smith (played by Joanne Froggatt), and her husband David Smith.
Stellar Cast:: Features acclaimed actors Maxine Peake as Myra Hindley and Sean Harris as Ian Brady, alongside Joanne Froggatt (*Downton Abbey*) and Matthew McNulty.
Renewed Popularity:: Since its addition to Netflix UK in late March 2025, the series rapidly climbed into the top tier of the most-watched list, demonstrating the power of streaming platforms to revive older content.
Original Context:: First broadcast on ITV in 2006 to mark the 40th anniversary of the killers' trial, created after extensive research and consultation with victims' families.
Why this matters:: This trend highlights how quality television programming, even from nearly two decades ago, can find a significant new audience through streaming platforms. It also underscores the continued audience appetite for well-made, sensitively handled true-crime narratives.
In-Depth Analysis
Background: The Moors Murders
Between July 1963 and October 1965, Ian Brady and Myra Hindley murdered five victims aged between 10 and 17: Pauline Reade, John Kilbride, Keith Bennett, Lesley Ann Downey, and Edward Evans. The discovery of bodies buried on Saddleworth Moor horrified the nation. Both Brady and Hindley received life sentences; Hindley died in prison in 2002, and Brady in 2017.
A Sensitive Portrayal
*See No Evil*, directed by Christopher Menaul and written by Neil McKay, garnered praise for its approach. Rather than focusing solely on the killers or sensationalizing the crimes, it centres the narrative on Maureen Smith (Joanne Froggatt) and her husband David Smith (Matthew McNulty), whose testimony was crucial in bringing the killers to justice. This perspective allows the drama to explore the events and their impact without dwelling excessively on the perpetrators' brutality.
Critics and viewers over the years have lauded the performances, particularly Maxine Peake's portrayal of Hindley and Sean Harris's chilling depiction of Brady. Reviews often describe the series as 'disturbing' yet 'powerful' and 'sensitive', commending its avoidance of 'morbid sensationalism'.
Streaming Success and Accessibility
The drama's arrival on Netflix has proven highly successful, quickly reaching the #2 spot on the UK's most-watched list shortly after its release. This mirrors a pattern where older, well-regarded series from terrestrial channels gain renewed traction on streaming services (similar to the BBC's *The Replacement*, also found in Netflix's UK top 10).
Viewers can watch *See No Evil: The Moors Murders* on Netflix (subscriptions start at £5.99/month for the ad-supported tier in the UK). It is also available to stream on ITVX (free with ads, or £5.99/month for ad-free ITVX Premium).
FAQs
What is *See No Evil: The Moors Murders* about?
It's a 2006 two-part British TV drama depicting the Moors Murders committed by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley in the 1960s, told from the perspective of Hindley's sister, Maureen Smith.
Who are the main actors?
Joanne Froggatt stars as Maureen Smith, with Maxine Peake as Myra Hindley, Sean Harris as Ian Brady, and Matthew McNulty as David Smith.
Where can I watch *See No Evil*?
In the UK, it's currently available on Netflix and ITVX.
Key Takeaways
A compelling and critically noted true-crime drama from 2006 is now easily accessible on major streaming platforms.
The series offers a different perspective on the infamous Moors Murders, focusing on family members impacted by the crimes and the subsequent investigation.
Its resurgence highlights how streaming services can introduce powerful older dramas to a completely new generation of viewers.
Discussion
Have you watched *See No Evil*? What did you think of its approach to the sensitive subject matter? Let us know!
*Share this article with others interested in true-crime dramas or notable British television!*
Sources & References
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