Beyond Fear is a British television crime drama film, first broadcast on March 30, 1997, the opening night of Channel 5, that details the kidnap of estate agent Stephanie Slater by convicted murderer Michael Sams.
Production The drama was adapted from Slater's acclaimed book of the same name by screenwriter Don Shaw, with Jenny Wilkes assigned to direct. Beyond Fear starred Gina McKee as Slater and Sylvester McCoy as Sams, with Judith Anthony, Kitty McGeever, Sally Rogers and Iain Rogerson also appearing in key roles. Slater was heavily involved in the film's production.
Reception Gerard Gilbert of The Independent gave praise to Beyond Fear, writing: "The undoubted jewel in Channel 5's rather wobbly opening-night crown. This is a fine, unsalacious reconstruction of Slater's brave cat-and-mouse encounter with her captor, and Gina McKee gives a convincing portrayal of a normal young woman in an intolerable situation. Former Doctor Who Sylvester McCoy is gruffly menacing as Sams."
Broadcast The film recorded a viewing figure of 1.7 million, the most watched programme on the channel that night.
Notably, Beyond Fear has never been released on VHS or DVD, although has previously been repeated on True Entertainment as part of their Best of British season, as well as the Lifetime network in the United States.
Cast Gina McKee as Stephanie Slater Sylvester McCoy as Michael Sams Judith Anthony as Betty Slater Kitty McGeever as Jo Fennimore Sally Rogers as DS Anne Woolley Iain Rogerson as DS Steve McBride Phil Croft as Derek Smith James Grant as Warren Slater Roger Ennals as P.C. Simpson Davyd Harries as Det. Supt. Morris Bob Mason as Det. Supt. Clarke Di Sherlock as Mrs. Dart Bruce Alexander as Interrogator #1 Terence Beesley as Interrogator #2
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