Supernatural mini-series 'Possession' explores legacy of colonialism

A new supernatural mini-series titled Possession, starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw, delves into the lingering effects of colonialism and slavery through a blend of supernatural mystery, horror, and magical realism. The five-part series, set in Jamaica, follows Claudia, a mixed-race lawyer played by Mbatha-Raw, as she travels to the island to represent Oliver Connaught, a wealthy white aristocrat challenging his late father’s will. The dispute centers around the vast family estate, which has been left to a local man named Cudjoe East, portrayed by Sheldon Shepherd. However, the case takes a dramatic turn when Claudia learns that the contested property is Hope Hill, a former plantation owned by the Connaught family and a site deeply tied to her personal history. Possession unfolds across two timelines: the present day and the 1760s. In the historical segment, Bel Powley portrays Charlotte, the daughter of the plantation owner, while Shepherd plays both Cudjoe East and Matthew, an enslaved man and the illegitimate son of the plantation owner. The narrative is shaped through a Jamaican perspective, with director Storm Saulter, a native of the island, overseeing the production. Filming took place at a real plantation house, adding a layer of authenticity and intensity to the experience for the cast and crew. Writer Karla Crome emphasized the significance of filming in Jamaica, stating that the physical presence of history made the project more impactful. She noted that the UK's complex relationship with Jamaica meant the story could only be fully realized on the island. Mbatha-Raw, who also serves as an executive producer, described the emotional weight of visiting the actual plantation house. “Just driving up to that house for the first time knowing that it wasn’t a set, it was a real house, there was real history in that soil, you know, it was chilling in a way, but I think it also gave us a real sense of grounded authenticity,” she said. Shepherd shared similar reflections on the experience. He mentioned feeling a welcoming spirit rather than fear while working on the set. “I felt a welcoming vibration while we were in that house. I didn’t feel scared. Some people felt scared. Some people would tell you that they saw things, but I felt as if I was being ushered in to do a particular job and I was protected, in essence.” His portrayal of both Cudjoe East and Matthew adds depth to the exploration of identity and legacy within the context of colonial history. Mbatha-Raw’s character faces supernatural challenges, including terrifying nightmares and a harrowing scene in which she is buried under the floorboards of the plantation house. Speaking about the demanding nature of the role, she acknowledged the psychological toll of portraying such intense experiences. “There were days on this shoot where definitely I felt incredibly drained from simulating these psychological, deep, dark places that you have to go to,” she said. Despite the difficulties, she remained committed to the message behind the story. “What you’re trying to say and the conversation you’re trying to open up is bigger than you.” The series will debut on Sky on 6 August 2026, offering viewers a unique blend of genre elements and historical reflection. As the production team continues to refine the final cut, anticipation grows for how the series will resonate with audiences and contribute to ongoing discussions about the legacies of colonialism and slavery.