Encore Originals Debuts an Intimate Psychological Thriller, 'The Crimson Petal and The White,' 3/6

ENCORE is set to debut Original award-winning series "The Crimson Petal and The White," a four part miniseries adapted from Michel Faber's Bestselling novel (2002).Part one and two of the sweeping and gritty epic will air exclusively on ENCORE Friday, March 6th beginning at 9 PM et/pt, with its concluding parts three and four airing Saturday, March 7th at 9 PM et/pt.

The intimate psychological thriller reveals the underbelly of Victorian era London focusing on the travails of prostitute Sugar played by Romola Garai (Atonement, Amazing Grace), with Chris O'Dowd (Gulliver's Travels, Bridesmaids) as William Rackham. The international cast includes, Gillian Anderson ("The X-Files") as brothel proprietor Mrs. Castaway, Shirley Henderson (Harry Potter 2002, 2005), and Richard E. Grant (Withnail and I).

"The Crimson Petal and the White" lifts the lid on the darker side of Victorian London to reveal a world seething with vitality, sexuality, ambition and emotion. This four-part miniseries tells the story of Sugar (Garai), an alluring, intelligent young prostitute who yearns for a better life away from the brothel she is attached to, run by the contemptible Mrs. Castaway (Gillian Anderson). Highly sought after and sexually adept, Sugar finds her only comfort in writing a secret novel in which a murderous prostitute takes revenge on her clients. Sugar's fortunes change when she meets wealthy businessman William Rackham (O'Dowd), who is saddled with pious brother Henry (Mark Gatiss) and fragile wife Agnes (Amanda Hale). Regular visits from the invasive physician Doctor Curlew (Richard E. Grant) leave Agnes unable to perform her wifely duties, and William finds Sugar a thrilling antidote to his dreary existence. As William's mistress, Sugar soon grows accustomed to her new life. Yet unbeknown to William, Sugar hatches a plan that will change their lives forever.