Visually stunning series blends crime, romance, trauma

Charlotte Regan's first major television project, "Mint," presents a visually sumptuous and auteur-driven series, drawing comparisons to "Twin Peaks" for its unique aesthetic. The show incorporates VHS-style footage, surreal dream sequences, and distinctive framing to create a striking visual experience, notably featuring a highly artistic self-pleasure scene in its initial episode.

The narrative centers on Shannon, a 22-year-old whose life is overshadowed by her powerful gangster father, Dylan. Her world shifts when she falls for Arran, only to discover he belongs to a rival family. This initial premise, reminiscent of "Romeo and Juliet," rapidly transforms.

"Mint" eschews a straightforward gangster plot, focusing instead on the psychological aftermath of trauma, power dynamics, loyalty, and betrayal within the characters' lives. It delves into the complex realities behind the superficial glamour of organized crime, with exceptional performances from Emma Laird as Shannon and Laura Fraser as her mother, Cat.

Despite its impressive visual style and exploration of complex themes, the series offers a less conventional experience than typical crime dramas. It deliberately avoids common tropes like detective chases or heists, opting for a more introspective study of its characters, culminating in a tense finale that revisits Shakespearean tragedy.