Andrew Lincoln Returns to British TV in ITV’s Gripping Thriller “Coldwater”
The highly anticipated thriller series Coldwater premieres on ITV1 and the streaming service ITVX on October 29, 2023. Starring Andrew Lincoln, known for his role in The Walking Dead, the show explores the unsettling dynamics of a seemingly ordinary family man thrust into a troubling scenario. Created and written by playwright David Ireland, Coldwater also features talents such as Ewen Bremner, Indira Varma, and Eve Myles.
Set in a picturesque Scottish town, Coldwater unveils the darker side of rural life. Lincoln portrays John, a family man who relocates with his loved ones from London to the fictional town of Coldwater. Upon arrival, he befriends his charismatic neighbor Tommy, played by Bremner, while his wife Fiona, portrayed by Varma, harbors suspicions about Tommy’s true nature. As John’s relationship with Tommy intensifies, Fiona’s concerns grow, leading to a series of events that expose John’s deeply buried rage and the unsettling secrets that Tommy conceals.
A Unique Blend of Genres
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Lincoln expressed his initial reluctance to take on the role. “Sister Pictures sent it to me. I read it, and I immediately said: ‘Absolutely not. It terrifies me! It’s too frightening,’” he recalled. Despite his fears, he found himself drawn back to the script, eventually connecting with Ireland over a Zoom call. Lincoln noted that the story resonates deeply due to its exploration of a man in crisis.
David Ireland shared insights into his writing process, revealing that his inspiration often comes from a desire to depict modern individuals placed in precarious situations. He cited influences like Straw Dogs and The Wicker Man, emphasizing the urgency of presenting characters facing extreme challenges. “I wanted to write something that’s a bit like Deliverance,” Ireland explained, highlighting the thematic depth in Coldwater.
Balancing Darkness and Humor
Both Lincoln and Ireland acknowledge the challenges of blending tension and humor in Coldwater. Lincoln highlighted the unpredictable nature of Ireland’s writing, noting that it manages to elicit both laughter and discomfort. “David has a real knack for writing dark, dread-filled, fearful comedy,” he said. The series aims to keep viewers engaged through a mix of suspense and emotional complexity.
As the production unfolds, Lincoln faced the unique challenge of maintaining a serious demeanor while surrounded by comedic talent. “There was a lot of mischievous kind of energy on set,” he admitted, describing the difficulty of filming without breaking into laughter. Ireland, too, faced the daunting task of crafting a six-part drama-thriller that remains character-driven while delivering cliffhangers to captivate audiences.
The series is produced by Sister Pictures, with direction from Lee Haven Jones and Andrew Cumming. Along with Lincoln and Ireland, the show features a robust team of executive producers, including Jane Featherstone and Chris Fry. ITV Studios oversees international distribution, ensuring the series reaches a global audience.
As Coldwater prepares to debut, both Lincoln and Ireland seem eager to see how audiences will respond to this intriguing blend of genres. With its rich narrative and complex characters, the series promises to be a compelling addition to contemporary television.
