Mint: First Look at BBC’s New Romantic Crime Drama

The BBC is poised to launch this spring‘s most intriguing new drama, Mint, a darkly comic crime series that delves into the complex inner life of a criminal family. The eight-part series, already generating buzz for its unconventional approach and compelling characters, promises a blend of soaring romance and crushing heartbreak, all set against the backdrop of a world where everyone outside the family lives in fear.

Created, written, and directed by Charlotte Regan, the filmmaker behind the critically acclaimed Scrapper, Mint marks Regan’s debut in television. The series was filmed in Glasgow and wrapped production earlier this year. The show is a co-production between House Productions (known for Sherwood and Conclave) and Fearless Minds, and will be available on both BBC iPlayer and BBC One.

At the heart of Mint are Shannon, played by Emma Laird (The Brutalist, Mayor of Kingstown), and Arran, portrayed by Ben Coyle-Larner, also known as the musician Loyle Carner. The narrative centers on their burgeoning romance, a connection that blossoms despite the inherent dangers and complexities of their respective families’ criminal enterprises. The series explores what love feels like when surrounded by a world that fears your lineage.

The cast also includes a strong ensemble of established and rising talent. Sam Riley (Control, Firebrand), Laura Fraser (Breaking Bad, Patience), Lewis Gribben (Somewhere Boy, Black Mirror), and Lindsay Duncan (TrueLove, Birdman) all feature in supporting roles, adding depth and nuance to the story’s intricate web of relationships. Neil Leiper, Dylan (Sam Riley), Liangelo (Connor Newall) and Arran (Ben Coyle-Larner) round out the key players.

The BBC has released first-look images offering a glimpse into the series’ visual style and the characters’ emotional landscapes. Laird is pictured staring intensely into a mirror, hinting at the internal struggles Shannon faces, while Coyle-Larner’s Arran is captured in a moment of quiet contemplation. These images, alongside the series’ billing as a “deranged” romance, suggest a tone that is both captivating and unsettling.

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, commissioned the series. Angus Lamont produces, with Tessa Ross, Juliette Howell, and Theo Barrowclough executive producing for House Productions, and Jolyon Symonds for Fearless Minds. Rebecca Ferguson serves as the executive producer for the BBC. BBC Studios will handle global sales, presenting the series at MIPCOM Cannes, a major international television market.

The project’s development reflects a growing trend within the BBC towards commissioning bold, character-driven dramas that explore complex themes. Regan’s previous work, Scrapper, demonstrated a unique voice and a talent for blending humor with emotional depth – qualities that clearly resonated with the BBC’s commissioning team. The choice to cast a musician, Loyle Carner, in a leading role also signals a willingness to embrace fresh talent and unconventional casting choices.

Mint’s exploration of a crime family’s internal dynamics sets it apart from more conventional crime dramas. Rather than focusing solely on the external conflicts and violent acts associated with organized crime, the series promises to delve into the emotional toll it takes on those involved, particularly within the context of romantic relationships. This focus on the human element, combined with Regan’s darkly comic sensibility, positions Mint as a potentially groundbreaking addition to the genre.

The series’ arrival on BBC iPlayer and BBC One is strategically timed to capitalize on the growing demand for high-quality British drama. The BBC’s commitment to investing in original content, coupled with the increasing popularity of its streaming platform, iPlayer, suggests a strong platform for Mint to reach a wide audience. The involvement of House Productions and Fearless Minds, both established players in the UK television industry, further underscores the series’ potential for success.

The anticipation surrounding Mint is fueled not only by its intriguing premise and talented cast but also by the reputation of those involved. Charlotte Regan’s directorial vision, combined with the production expertise of House Productions and Fearless Minds, suggests a series that is both creatively ambitious and commercially viable. As the release date approaches, Mint is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about dramas of the spring season.