Main content
This programme is not currently available on BBC iPlayer

The Thirteenth Tale

Psychological drama. A biographer, hearing the previously untold dark and disturbing life story of a dying novelist, is compelled to finally face the trauma of her own past.

Psychological drama adapted by Oscar-winning screenwriter Christopher Hampton from Diane Setterfield's bestselling novel.

Biographer Margaret Lea is summoned to the Yorkshire home of dying novelist Vida Winter, who has handpicked Margaret to write her biography. Though initially hesitant, as Vida has a reputation for distorting facts in interviews, Margaret becomes fascinated by her previously untold story.

As the novelist recounts her dark and disturbing childhood, Margaret is compelled to finally face the trauma of her own past. But as time runs out, Margaret, desperate to hear the end of Vida's story, begins to wonder if she is hearing the confessions of a murderer.

1 hour, 30 minutes

Last on

Wed 31 Oct 2018 22:00

Credits

Role Contributor
Director James Kent
Margaret Lea Olivia Colman
Vida Winter Vanessa Redgrave
Young Adeline / Vida Sophie Turner
Hester Barrow Alexandra Roach
John the Dig Robert Pugh
Isabelle March Emily Beecham
Charlie Angelfield Michael Jibson
Dr Mawsley Tom Goodman-Hill
Ambrose Proctor Adam Long
Moira Alice Barlow
Young Margaret Isabel Barlow
Aurelius Love Gordon Winter
Peter Lomax Martin Wimbush
Dr Clifton Steven Mackintosh
Young Emmeline Antonia Clarke
The Missus Janet Amsden
Emmeline / Adeline, aged 9 Madeleine Power
Theodora Mawsley Lizzie Hopley
Judith Jacqueline Davis
Writer Christopher Hampton
Author Diane Setterfield
Producer David Heyman
Producer Norma Heyman

Broadcasts

Meet the Characters

Meet the Characters

Meet the characters of psychological drama starring Vanessa Redgrave and Olivia Colman.