The Trick on BBC One
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The Trick: Jason Watkins cast in new BBC thriller from Keeping Faith makers

The BBC film is expected to hit screens next year

The BBC has commissioned new thriller The Trick.

The one-off film is based on the story of climate change Professor Philip Jones.

Philip found himself at the centre of international media attention in 2009 when his email was hacked.

Leaked messages appeared to suggest that climate change was a “scam” made up by scientists.

As a result, it sparked major controversy among the scientific community.

However, not all was what it seemed.

Jason Watkins BBC The Trick
Jason will star in new BBC drama The Trick (Credit: Splash)

What is BBC thriller The Trick about?

The film will chart the persecution of Phil Jones as he fights for the exoneration of himself and science.

“The Trick looks at the potentially devastating consequences to humanity from climate change denial,” reads the synopsis.

However, it will also depict “how the media storm undermined public confidence in the science”.

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Life BBC
Victoria is playing Philip’s wife (Credit: BBC)

Who will star in The Trick?

Line of Duty star Jason Watkins will play Philip Jones.

Jason said: “It’s rare a drama marries the personal and the public in such a compelling way

“It is a privilege to play the brilliant scientist, Phil Jones. His efforts have been so vital globally in combating the effects of climate change.

“I’m delighted to be performing alongside Victoria and the whole exceptional cast. And Pip Broughton, whose singular and beautiful work I so admire.”

He’ll be joined by Doctor Foster and Life star Victoria Hamilton, who will play his wife, Ruth.

Victoria said: “This project is a call to arms in favour of the climate change cause. I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of it!”

Rounding out the star-studded cast are George MacKay, Richard Elfyn and Line of Duty’s Tara Divina.

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Piers Wenger, Director of BBC Drama, said: “This shocking true story speaks of the complexity of the challenges we face.”

Filming will take place in Cardiff, London and Norfolk.

However, a release date has yet to be confirmed by the BBC.

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