Joan Hannington's journey raises a powerful question: how does one rise from a troubled upbringing, an abusive marriage, and the struggles of single parenthood to become a renowned jewel thief and influential figure in the criminal world? Her life story serves as a backdrop for the six-part drama inspired by her 2002 autobiography, I Am What I Am (reissued as Joan). While the adaptation leans into the crime caper genre, it intricately weaves in Joan's backstory, including her determination to provide for her daughter, Kelly (Mia Millichamp-Long), keeping viewers emotionally engaged.
Set in the glitzy 1980s, the series opens with Joan (played by Sophie Turner of Game of Thrones) in an opulent hotel room. Despite the scars of her past, she adorns herself in luxurious clothing and dazzling jewelry, embodying confidence and resilience. The narrative then flashes back four months, revealing her tumultuous journey to this moment.
The story unfolds quickly, showcasing Joan's escape from her abusive boyfriend, Gary, and the threats against her and Kelly. To protect her daughter, she makes the heart-wrenching decision to place Kelly in care, vowing to reunite once she secures a new job and home. Seeking refuge, Joan turns to her sister Nancy (Kirsty J Curtis), who reluctantly offers her a temporary sofa and a position at her hair salon, setting the stage for the chaos that follows.
Chaos arrives when Joan finds work at a jeweler's shop owned by the unsettling Bernard (Alex Blake). After a harrowing encounter with him, she escapes, taking loose diamonds as she goes. This moment leads her to cross paths with Boisie (Frank Dillane), a dubious antiques dealer, igniting a chain of events that pulls her deeper into the criminal underworld.
As the story progresses, Joan's determination and intelligence enable her to thrive, challenging the societal norms that have long dismissed her. The series skillfully balances the darker aspects of Joan's life with the exhilarating rush of heists and smuggling escapades. Turner's performance captures both the anxious mother and the desperate woman determined to carve her own path.
By the end of the second episode, tensions surface as Joan commits to Boisie, declaring her intention to go "all in" for financial success. This shift raises questions about her character's consistency and whether a savvy woman of the era would rely on social services without foreseeing potential pitfalls for Kelly.
The script effectively utilizes a strong cast, including Gershwyn Eustache Jr. as Albie, Boisie's affable yet dangerous associate, to create a solid entertainment experience. Joan offers a mix of escapism and suspense, perfect for cozy autumn evenings.