About It's a Sin

It's a Sin is a British television drama series that was released in 2021. This poignant drama presents the story of a group of friends living through the HIV/AIDS crisis in London during the 1980s. The series was created and written by Russell T. Davies and presents a touching exploration of the joy and heartbreak of this tumultuous period. The intense drama, coupled with the stunning performances of the actors, provides a sensitive, emotional and authentic representation of this tragic historical period.

Making / Production

The series was produced by Phil Collinson and directed by Peter Hoar. The brilliant script by Russell T. Davies, known for his work in "Years and Years" and "Doctor Who," lends a powerful depth to this heartrending series. The shooting of the show is set against the backdrop of London, with its architecture playing into the narrative and lending a distinct flavour to the series.

Actors

• Olly Alexander as Ritchie Tozer - Olly gave a stunning performance as Ritchie, a young gay man from the Isle of Wight, who moves to London and experiences the highs and lows of life.
• Lydia West as Jill Baxter - Lydia West rides the emotional roller coaster as Jill, a good friend of Ritchie and close confidante who becomes a crucial figure in the wake of the HIV/AIDS crisis.
• Nathaniel Curtis as Ash Mukherjee - Curtis brilliantly plays Ash, a friend of Ritchie who becomes involved in his narrative in a very deep way.
• Shaun Dooley as Clive Tozer - Shaun plays Ritchie's father, adding complexity and depth to the character's narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series was original known in its development stages as 'Boys'.
• It's a Sin marks singer-songwriter Olly Alexander's first major acting role in a TV series.
• The real-life Jill Nalder who inspired Lydia West's character is featured in the series as Jill's mother.

Quotes

• "The wards are full of men like me. You're going to have to get used to this."
• "The world's full of boys like you."
• "You're not unlucky, Roscoe. Your everything you wanted."

Music, Soundtrack

• The theme song for the series is “It’s a Sin” by the Pet Shop Boys.
• The series' background score was predominantly composed by Murray Gold, effectively capturing the mood of the period and the narrative.
• The series features a range of music popular in the 80s, further immersing viewers in the time period.