What is Charlotte Ritchie's Experience Filming ‘Code of Silence’?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Charlotte Ritchie takes on a compelling role as DS Ashleigh Francis.
- The series offers a unique perspective on crime and communication.
- It challenges stereotypes surrounding Deaf individuals.
- Ritchie emphasizes the importance of eye contact and attentive communication.
- It features a strong narrative about personal versus professional challenges.
Mumbai, July 31 (NationPress) English actress Charlotte Ritchie makes her debut in detective mode as DS Ashleigh Francis in the captivating new British crime drama Code of Silence. She expressed that her character is not only skilled but also quite intuitive, making her a joy to portray.
Discussing her role, Ritchie shared, “She has been a detective sergeant with Kent Canterbury police for quite some time, exuding confidence in her job. While she is very instinctive and operates slightly outside the strictest guidelines, she isn't a maverick.”
“She's proficient in her role and has a keen intuition, making her a delightful character to play. Yet, her professional excellence starkly contrasts with the turmoil in her personal life.”
Ritchie revealed that her attraction to the project wasn't solely based on the character but also stemmed from the story's unique viewpoint. She commented, “I found it fascinating how the narrative is told from Alison's perspective. Many crime dramas are excellent, but this one offers a refreshing take on the themes it explores.”
“It highlights how we communicate and how the world perceives and interacts with Deaf individuals, often underestimating them and keeping them at a distance.”
Ritchie noted that the series unfolds against a robust narrative about a young woman who finds herself in over her head.
“I was also aware that Rose Ayling-Ellis was portraying Alison, and she is exceptional—so engaged and vibrant in her performances. There’s something captivating about her attentiveness.”
Reflecting on the experience of working on a set rich in diversity, she added, “It’s wonderful to have a range of perspectives and experiences both on set and in life. I started to observe subtle differences: hearing individuals often don’t look directly at one another when speaking, but everyone was learning together on set.”
The actress explained that this meant people were more inclined to make eye contact, consider each other more, and take a moment to ensure that their points were understood.
She remarked, “You begin to think more about those around you and how they might be experiencing the day, becoming more aware of your behavior in relation to others. It forges a stronger connection between everyone.”
The series emphasizes the often-overlooked strength of silence, centering on Alison Brooks, a clever but struggling Deaf canteen worker with a remarkable ability for lip-reading.
Suddenly thrust into a high-stakes undercover operation with the police, Alison must navigate criminal plots, dual identities, and a deeply emotional bond with the main suspect, Liam Barlow.
The British crime drama premieres exclusively on Lionsgate Play on August 1.