I May Destroy You (HBO)

About I May Destroy You (HBO)

"I May Destroy You" is a critically acclaimed British television series created, written, co-directed, and executive produced by Michaela Coel for BBC One and HBO. The series, released in 2020, is a brave and unflinching exploration of consent, sexual assault, and personal navigation through trauma. The story is based on Coel's own experience of sexual assault. It is a complex narrative that skillfully weaves together elements of drama, examination of social issues, and dark humor.

Making / Production

The series was co-directed by Sam Miller and Michaela Coel. It was filmed across different locations in London. Coel spent three years working on the project, drawing heavily from her personal experiences in creating the storyline. Unique in its genre and depiction, the show takes a raw look at the aftermath of sexual assault, which has been praised for starting important conversations about consent and trauma.

Actors

• Michaela Coel as Arabella: Coel, who is also the series creator, gives a riveting performance as Arabella, a writer attempting to piece her life back together after a sexual assault.
• Weruche Opia as Terry Pratchard: Opia excellently plays Arabella's loyal best friend who is navigating her own struggles.
• Paapa Essiedu as Kwame: Essiedu plays an open-hearted fitness instructor dealing with sexual assault and coming to terms with his identity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series is partly based on Michaela Coel’s real life experience of being sexually assaulted.
• Michaela Coel turned down a million dollar deal from Netflix to maintain ownership over her work. She later made a deal with BBC and HBO.
• The series has been praised for its honest and nuanced depiction of consent and trauma.

Awards

"I May Destroy You" has been awarded several prestigious awards and nominations, notably the British Academy Television Award for Best Mini-Series. Michaela Coel won the British Academy Television Award for Best Actress and the Royal Television Society Programme Award for Actor - Female.

Quotes

• "The problem is, when someone's good at something, they can get away with anything." - Arabella
• "The truth is a priceless commodity." - Kwame

Music, Soundtrack

• "Don't Forget About Me" by Cloves
• "Obsessed" by Hatchie
• "It's Okay to Cry" by SOPHIE