ATV Choice: Mr Understood

Playhouse Presents… Mr Understood. This week’s drama from Sky Arts is the tale of transvestite Gary as he ventures out as a woman for the first time.

The edition is described by Sky as a ‘darkly comic and thought-provoking tale co-created by artist Grayson Perry and actress Kate
Hardie, who also serves as writer and director.’

Mr Understood is a deeply personal tale which follows Gary – actor Tom Brooke – a young transvestite battling with issues of selfdoubt, portrayed through the personification of his inner voice, Frank  – played by Tommy McDonnell.

When Gary decides to emerge from isolation and attend a transvestite disco and beauty night, he overcomes his fears to reveal his true self in public for the first time, facing the mixed reactions of strangers. As his bravery wanes and terror and doubts set in, an encounter with fellow transvestite Jim – actor Neil Dudgeon – helps Gary to explore questions of self-acceptance and happiness.

But Jim is not without his own insecurities, as his inner voice Linda – played by Claire Skinner – rarely neglects to remind him.

Playhouse Presents… Mr Understood tonight – Thursday the 16th May – at 9pm on Sky Arts 1.