Matthew Rhys just made history at the Emmys, becoming the first actor to win two lead acting awards in the same year, for his roles in The Beast in Me and Widow's Bay. But while everyone rushes to catch those celebrated shows, there's another Rhys project that slipped under the radar—and it's a gem.
Released on BritBox in April 2025, Towards Zero is an Agatha Christie adaptation that didn't get the buzz it deserved. With a stellar cast and a classic whodunit plot, it's the perfect pick for a weekend binge. Here's why you should add it to your watchlist.
What's 'Towards Zero' About?
Based on Christie's 1944 novel, the series centers on tennis star Neville Strange (Oliver Jackson-Cohen), whose affair with the alluring Kay Elliott (Mimi Keene) leads to a scandalous divorce from his wife Audrey (Ella Lily Hyland). After the public trial, the trio ends up at Gull's Point, the seaside home of Neville's aunt, Lady Tresselian (Anjelica Huston).
But this isn't just a family gathering. The house is filled with secrets: Lady Tresselian's companion Mary (Anjana Vasan) is secretly writing to the disgraced nephew Thomas (Jack Farthing), Neville's valet (Adam Hugill) has his own hidden agenda, and there's a lawyer (Clarke Peters), a kleptomaniac ward (Grace Doherty), and a local 'fun procurer' (Khalil Ben Gharbia) all in the mix. Naturally, a murder occurs, and Inspector Leach (Rhys) is on the case.
The story unfolds over three episodes, building to what Christie called 'point zero'—the moment before the murder that's just as crucial as the crime itself. It's a clever structure that keeps you guessing until the end.
A Cast That Shines
What really elevates Towards Zero is its ensemble. Anjelica Huston is a delight as the imperious Lady Tresselian, commanding every scene she's in. Oliver Jackson-Cohen and Ella Lily Hyland have great chemistry, selling the Stranges' icy dynamic. And Rhys brings a magnetic, quirky energy to Inspector Leach, even if we wish he had more screen time.
Critics have praised the cast, with Collider calling it 'the best thing' about the series. If you're a fan of Christie's mysteries or just love a good whodunit, this is a must-watch. And if you're new to the genre, check out our top whodunit movies for beginners to get started.
While Towards Zero may not have the hype of Rhys's Emmy-winning shows, it's a tightly crafted mystery that's perfect for a lazy weekend. So grab some tea, settle in, and let this forgotten gem surprise you.
