Brimstone and Treacle (1976)

Dennis Potter’s TV play directed by Barry Davis was banned by a fearful and controlling BBC before it was even shown. They eventually relented in 1987 and it’s currently available on DVD.
Michael Kitchen stars as a wicked confidence trickster who worms his way into the home of an older couple. With an angelic smile on his face he causes chaos, all the while pretending to care for their sick daughter. There’s more to it than that but it‘s best if the viewer discovers it by themselves. If you know Potter’s work you’ll know to prepare yourself for strong views and shocking turns as the layers are peeled away.
The visitor’s origins are purposefully murky but they’re less ambiguous than in the subsequent filmed version (1982).

4 peaceful arts out of 5