Ray played by Billy Barratt 

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Netflix showing award-winning gripping crime film that’s a ‘BBC drama at its finest’

Netflix subscribers have been captivated by Responsible Child, a BBC drama from 2019, which has recently arrived on the platform. The standalone film follows a young lad who stands trial for murder.

It examines the question of at what age children should be held responsible for their actions within a legal framework.

The drama portrays the story of Ray (played by Billy Barratt), an apparently good-natured 12 year old boy facing a difficult home situation, who is tried for murder alongside his elder brother, Nathan (played by James Tarpey); both end up in an adult court after being charged with killing their stepfather whilst he slept, and this isn’t purely a fictional tale.

In actuality, it is believed to be based on the case of Jerome and Joshua Ellis, two brothers who fatally stabbed their stepfather in 2013.

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Responsible Child 

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Responsible Child follows a young boy who is put on trial for murder

The synopsis states: “One night, when the boys hear that Scott has threatened to get the axe again, the brothers carry out an attack on Scott, brutally murdering him.”

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It continues: “After the murder, the brothers are arrested and charged with Scott’s murder. Nathan and Ray are separated as they enter the judicial system and meet their respective legal teams.”

Ray is housed in a foster home owing to his age and designation as a “looked after child” whilst awaiting trial in an adult court.

His defence team “argue that Ray lost control on the night of the attack and should be convicted of manslaughter rather than murder”.

The synopsis continues: “As the trial begins, they discover that Nathan’s defence team have decided that Nathan should not testify, leaving Ray alone to take the stand and give evidence in his own defence.”

Billy Barratt became the youngest recipient of an International Emmy for his performance, whilst the film also secured the TV Movie/Mini-Series award.

Receiving high marks on IMDb, viewers expressed their views on this BBC crime drama. One stated: “Firstly, fantastic acting by Billy Barrett, what an excellent portrayal of a difficult role. Makes you question your own beliefs and the law. Would recommend it.”

A second remarked, “BBC drama at its finest. Based on true events, the story shown here is likely to shock some viewers. Excellent performances from all involved, especially the incredible portrayal of Ray by Billy Barratt. This story will stay in your thoughts long after the credits have rolled.”

A third declared: “Great BBC drama. Gripping look at the justice system in England and Wales.”

Another viewer noted: “This is not an easy watch, but it is well worth the effort. I was left sobbing and in bits. Billy Barrett is a true actor with a bright future. A terrific BBC production of a tragic story so brilliantly told.”