Last updated on November 26, 2023
I love the crime drama Vincent, a tightly-written series that ran on ITV in 2005 and 2006. There’s talk of a revival of the series, which is performing well on Amazon Prime and other streaming services. I recommended the series to friends after watching the first two episodes. Following episode three, I encourage readers of The Autistic Me to watch the series.
“Dual Personality” (24 Oct 2005) follows PI Vincent Gallagher (Ray Winstone) and his team as they try to prove Malcolm, an autistic young man, did not murder a lottery winner on whom he had a crush. Malcolm’s only defender is his sister, Sheena (Kate Gartside), a member of the syndicate of lottery players who won the jackpot. Even Vincent’s team doubts Malcolm’s innocence along the way.
Malcolm’s autism is portrayed effectively by Shaun Dooley, supported by a solid script by show creator Stephen Butchard.
What I like about Vincent, the lead character, is that for all his personal failings, he cares about people. His relationships are messy. He says the wrong things to many of the women in his life, including his female employees. He’s obsessed with his failed marriage and envious of his wife’s new (police detective) lover.
Vincent bonds with Malcolm, saving the young man’s life twice — and proving Malcolm’s innocence. Vincent demonstrates a level of respect and understanding for Malcolm, connecting over soccer (football) and ketchup.
Too many autistic characters lack any depth. They are caricatures of autistic stereotypes and insulting to the autistic community.
Malcolm’s disability reflects the cognitive impairments I’ve observed working with young people. He isn’t Rain Main, nor his he randomly violent and dangerous. He doesn’t understand idioms and Vincent’s dark humor sometimes confuses Malcolm. I can relate to such moments of confusion with vernacular language.
Others might not agree with my assessment of Vincent the series or “Dual Personality” the episode. Watch and come to your own conclusions.