Top News

Netflix viewers have been drawn in by Responsible Child, a BBC drama dating back to 2019, which has not long been uploaded to the platform. The one-off film follows a young boy who is put on trial for murder. It explores the issue of at what age children ought to be responsible for their actions in a legal context.

The crime drama depicts the story of Ray (played by Billy Barratt), a seemingly kind-hearted 12-year-old boy facing a challenging home environment, who is put on trial for murder with his older brother, Nathan (played by James Tarpey); both find themselves in an adult court after being charged with the murder of their stepfather while he was asleep, and this isn't entirely a fictional story. In reality, it is thought to be based on the case of Jerome and Joshua Ellis, two brothers who fatally stabbed their stepfather in 2013.

The synopsis reads: "One night, when the boys hear that Scott has threatened to get the axe again, the brothers carry out an attack on Scott, brutally murdering him.

"After the murder, the brothers are arrested and charged with Scott's murder. Nathan and Ray are separated as they enter the judicial system and meet their respective legal teams."

Ray is placed in a foster home due to his age and status as a "looked after child" while he awaits trial in an adult court.

His defence team "argue that Ray lost control on the night of the attack and should be convicted of manslaughter rather than murder".

The synopsis adds: "As the trial begins, they discover that Nathan's defence team have decided that Nathan should not testify, leaving Ray alone to take the stand and give evidence in his own defence."

Billy Barratt became the youngest winner of an International Emmy for his performance, while the movie also won the TV Movie/Mini-Series award.

Highly rated on IMDb, viewers shared their opinions on this BBC crime drama. One wrote: "Firstly, fantastic acting by Billy Barrett, what an excellent portrayal of a difficult role. Makes you question your own beliefs and the law. Would recommend it."

A second commented: "BBC drama at its finest. Based on true events, the story shown here is likely to shock some viewers. Excellent performances from all involved, especially the incredible portrayal of Ray by Billy Barratt. This story will stay in your thoughts long after the credits have rolled."

A third said: "Great BBC drama. Gripping look at the justice system in England and Wales."

Another commented, "This is not an easy watch, but it is well worth the effort. I was left sobbing and in bits. Billy Barrett is a true actor with a bright future. A terrific BBC production of a tragic story so brilliantly told."