As the first original series from SundanceTV, Rectify was something of a gamble on the part of the network. Premiering on April 22 2013 with six episodes, however, the drama quickly established itself as a critical success, winning loyal fans and avid followers. Season two followed on June 19 2014, and is about to wrap after 10 episodes. Fans need not worry, though, as the show has now been renewed for a third season.
The premise of the series is simple, but with endless possibility for exploration. The story focuses on Daniel Holden who, as a teenager, was convicted and imprisoned for the rape and murder of his 16 year old girlfriend, Hanna. 19 years later, new DNA evidence proves his innocence and he is freed. His attempts to adjust, and the attempts of those around him to do the same, form a character study within a Southern Gothic tale.
Starring Aden Young (I, Frankenstein), Abigail Spencer (Suits), Clayne Crawford (Justified), and J. Smith-Cameron (Man On A Ledge) – and created by Ray McKinnon (Mud) – the show’s third season will comprise six episodes. SundanceTV President, Sarah Barnett explained:
“Rectify has evolved into a show much loved by critics and fans. As SundanceTV’s first scripted series, it’s gratifying to see such distinctive and unusual storytelling embraced with such passion.”
It could be argued that the success of Rectify is due, in part, to the willingness of SundanceTV to throw its weight behind something that is neither post-apocalyptic, nor hung on a murder-of-the-week structure. The refreshing move to include something different in the TV schedules has won the network many fans seeking an alternative narrative. While SundanceTV has begun to include some reality shows in its schedules since its 1996 launch as a channel dedicated to independent film, world cinema, short films, documentaries and original programs, its continued commitment to its flagship drama is testament to the quality of production on display. Audiences can continue to enjoy that quality when Rectify returns in 2015.
