Gugu Mbatha-Raw Unearths Colonial Darkness in Possession

Gugu Mbatha-Raw stars in the gripping new supernatural thriller, 'Possession,' which confronts the haunting legacy of slavery. The series centers on Claudia, a Bristol lawyer sent to Jamaica for an inheritance case that unravels the dark history of Britain's colonial past.

Mbatha-Raw portrays Claudia, a career-driven lawyer disconnected from her heritage, who becomes increasingly entangled with the literal and metaphorical ghosts of slavery. The narrative shifts between contemporary Jamaica and the brutal realities of the past.

The show, filmed in Jamaica, utilizes its vibrant culture and historical sites to explore themes of colonial wealth and reparations. It draws parallels to racially conscious horror like Jordan Peele's 'Get Out.'

Mbatha-Raw reflects on how 'Belle,' her 2013 period drama about Dido Elizabeth Belle, helped pave the way for greater representation in historical dramas, citing 'Bridgerton' as an example.

'Possession' began airing on Sky Atlantic on August 6th, prompting discussions on confronting historical truths and their ongoing impact.