It may not come as a surprise that I watch a fair amount of crime drama on television and love nothing more than having a good binge of the latest series of a great show. I tend to watch mostly home based shows as US ones tend to overstay their welcome and often have a stupid amount of episodes per season. I decided to reflect on the best 5 shows that I have been watching this year so far.
5 – The Chelsea Detective
I’ve been catching up with this show having really enjoyed the first series. A change of one of the main characters can sometimes cause issues, but I think this show has maintained its high standard, even with the changes. Adrian Scarborough is an excellent lead actor for this show, playing the part subtly without the need to show off or follow many of the usual traits of a troubled detective.
4 – The Madame Blanc Mysteries
Okay, so this may fall under the ‘guilty pleasure’ heading, but this cosy crime set in France is really good fun. Created, written and staring Sally Lindsay and Sue Vincent, the show has clever mysteries written, within a charming narrative. It has become a bit of a comfort watch over lunchtime and I keep coming back for each new series.
3 – The Marlow Murder Club
You could argue that this is another cosy crime show, but I think that would not be giving the mysteries the justice they deserve. Yes, the amateur sleuths helping the police in a consultancy basis is often a bit far fetched, but the main characters are enjoyable and well portrayed. Samantha Bond, of course, leads the way with perfection.
2 – Grace
A show based on the best-selling book series by Peter James was always likely to be a hit, but getting the casting right was important and this is where the series excels. John Simm was an inspired choice for the lead role, but he is well supported by the rest of the cast.
1 – Annika
I’ve enjoyed this from when it started as a radio show with the exceptional Nicola Walker. I did wonder how it would make the transformation to television and have been greatly impressed. Moving the show to Scotland and to the fictional Marine Homicide Unit didn’t take anything from the original, however, retaining Nicola Walker and maintaining her breaking of the fourth wall in the show was a genius move. By far my favourite show of the year so far.
Thanks again for reading my monthly blog. If you are new here, please subscribe at the home page to be notified of updates. I try and post at least monthly, but occasionally will add extra posts. I won’t however, flood your inbox on a daily or even weekly basis. You can also find my own creations via the Books and Short Stories tabs of this website.
Ross Alexander Writer 