The series, meaning "on the edge" or "on the border," tells the story of a magistrate who stumbles upon a criminal network, endangering herself and her family.
Newport, with its industrial past and distinctive transporter bridge, provides a unique backdrop for the series. The producers aimed to showcase the city's harsh beauty and authentic urban feel, capturing its essence in a way not seen before.
While Cardiff frequently serves as a filming location for productions like "Doctor Who," Newport offers a fresh perspective. Its border town location adds an element of intrigue and lawlessness to the narrative, distinguishing it from other Welsh crime dramas.
The city's art deco civic center and the vast mudflats of the River Usk also feature prominently in the series. The mudflats, in particular, symbolize the main character's struggle to overcome her troubled past.
The writers, Georgia Lee and Hannah Daniel, drew inspiration from Newport's unique character and the resilience of its people. Their experiences observing the city's magistrates court further informed the show's courtroom scenes.
Erin Richards, known for her roles in "Gotham" and "The Crown," leads the cast as magistrate Claire Lewis Jones. She expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to film in her native Wales.
"Ar y Ffin" premieres on December 29th on S4C, with a box set available on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer. It will also air on UKTV's crime drama channel, Alibi, next year under the title "Mudtown."
