THE STAIRCASE

SKY ATLANTIC, 9pm

This is a gripping retelling of the real life story of Michael Peterson, who was accused of murdering his wife Kathleen in 2001.

Colin Firth, right, is excellent in the lead role as the writer and war veteran, who now finds himself banged up in prison after the guilty verdict in 2003. He’s also been beaten up and doesn’t fancy his chances if he stays inside.

The action so far has built up to this point, with flashbacks starring Toni Collette as Kathleen.

Now the blended North Carolina family, already at war over who to believe and what happened, having lost their mother and step-mother, find the 2004 verdict a struggle.

Peterson is determined to prove his innocence and fight for an appeal, but it’s going to be a long time coming.