British TV Crime and Mysteries

Why is there such a delay for some of the series and movies to be released outside of the UK?

There can be significant delays for some of series and movies to be made available outside of the UK. The reason for the delay, quite simply, all comes down to international distribution rights and who acquires the rights. For example, PBS may acquire the rights for broadcast, and there could be a delay of months before PBS schedules airing of the series or movie. On the other hand, both the BritBox and Acorn TV streaming services have recently made somes series available within a day or two after airing in the UK.

How are you viewing some of these series and movies before they are released in the USA?

Some frequently ask how I am viewing some of these series and movies before they are available in the USA via any method. In some selected cases, I order the series and movies on DVD from Amazon UK. These DVDs come in a different DVD format called Region 2, while DVDs sold in the USA are in Region 1 format. Viewing Region 2 DVDs in the USA requires a region free or region unlocked player. There are a couple of key benefits of ordering DVDs directly from the UK.

• You can see the programs with minimal delay. For example, I’ve seen many series and movies weeks or even months before they are available in the USA. Given my addiction to British television, sometimes I am too impatient to wait for a particular series be released in the USA.
• The UK versions are uncensored and unedited. If one of your viewing methods is PBS, it should be noted that PBS frequently edits shows for time, such as to fit an allotted time schedule, as well as censoring.

What is the difference between a season and series?

Television nomenclature varies between the USA and the UK. What is called a season in the USA is typically called a series in the UK. For example, the first season of Foyle’s War would typically be referred to as series one in the UK. As Foyle’s War itself is a series, the series term can be confusing to some. Usage of the term episode varies. For example, sometimes a case or story may be divided into one or more episodes, and some might be labeled as part one and part two, etc. For the sake of simplicity, my usage of the terms story or case refer to viewing a particular story or case to completion, which may be consist of multiple episodes or parts. In some cases the particular story or case might span the entire series (i.e. season).

Is there a way to detemermine how family friendly the content might be for a series or movie?

Obviously, the determination of what content may or may not be family friendly is a relative thing. The key thing to remember is that what is permissible on broadcast television in the UK is very different from the USA, both from a visual aspect and language aspect. The most comprehensive method that you can use is consulting the rating system from the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). Then, simply visit the Internet Movie Database (IMDb), search for the series and movie, and look for the "certificate" rating.

Where can I find and view these series and movies?

The most frequent question that I receive is where to find these series or movies. The answer is that it depends on whether you are seeking to stream them, rent them, or buy them, and especially the country where you live. Streaming is the most commonly asked about method, and is where things get very convoluted and frustrating. The reason is that content varies by streaming provider, and also varies by country for a given streaming provider, which is due to how rights are sold and acquired. For example, what may be available on Netflix in one country may not be available on Netflix in another country. If you have a subscription with only one streaming service, you will be limited to the content that they choose to acquire and offer. Another issue with streaming services is that sometimes the content is only offered for a limited period of time, so what might be available now might be gone months later. There are at least five streaming providers which provide some British oriented content, and I actually subscribe to all five of the following.

• Acorn TV
• BritBox
• Netflix
• Hulu
• Prime Video (which also has channel upgrades, including PBS, Acorn TV, Britbox)

Why don't you link each title to the streaming provider?

One frequent suggestion or question that I receive is in regard to linking each series or title to the streaming provider. This would be far too time consuming for mutliple reasons. First, the content varies by streaming provider, and it also varies by country for a given streaming provider. For example, what may be available on Netflix in one country may not be available on Netflix in another country. Second, content regularly changes between streaming providers. For example, I've seen series and movies shift between Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BritBox, and Acorn TV.

Above Suspicion (TV Series 2009-2012)

Above Suspicion is a television series from ITV. The series was written by Lynda La Plante, the same writer as Prime Suspect, and Trial & Retribution. The two primary characters are Detective Constable (DC) Anna Travis, and her superior, Detective Chief Investigator (DCI) James Langton. Travis is portrayed by actress Kelly Reilly, and Langton is portrayed by actor Ciarán Hinds. The series ran from 2009 to 2012, and there are a total of four independent stories or cases, each roughly 3 hours in length.
This is a solid police procedural series, and was an enjoyable view. There is good character development across the series. For example, Travis is regularly trying to prove herself, and Langton is regularly correcting her to the point where she thinks he is holding her career back. If you enjoyed Above Suspicion, some other series to consider include DCI Banks, Prime Suspect, and Trial & Retribution.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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• Wikipedia

Bancroft (TV Series 2017-2020)

Bancroft is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Elizabeth Bancroft, who is portrayed by actress Sarah Parish. The series ran from 2017 to 2020, and there are eight one hour episodes. This was an entertaining and unique series, and without any spoilers, Bancroft harbors a dark secret. It received mixed reviews as some plot aspects are over the top, and some didn’t realize that the ending was open-ended, as it was renewed for a second series. If you enjoyed Bancroft, some other series to consider include Line of Duty.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Blue Murder (TV Series 2003-2009)

Blue Murder is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Janine Lewis, who is a divorced mother of four children. She leads a team of detectives that solve murders in Manchester, England. Lewis is portrayed by actress Caroline Quentin. The series ran from 2003 to 2009, and there are a total of 19 individual stories or cases that run about an hour each.
This is a good and entertaining series. It ventures mildly into her personal life in an appropriate manner, such as issues with balancing her family and career. There some subtle humor, including a romantic attraction with a detective that is on her team. If you enjoyed Blue Murder, some other series to consider are A Touch of Frost, New Tricks, and Scott & Bailey. If you like the actress Caroline Quentin, consider the series Jonathan Creek. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Broadchurch (TV Series (2015-2017)

Broadchurch is a television series from ITV. The two primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Alec Hardy and Detective Sergeant (DS) Ellie Miller. Hardy is portrayed by actor David Tennant, and Miller is portrayed by Olivia Colman. The first series aired in 2013, and is about seven hours in length. The first series is a single case or story, where they lead a team that investigates the murder of a young boy in a coastal community. The second series aired in 2015, and continues the story by introducing new facts. And a third series aired in 2017.
The first series was an outstanding police procedural, with a superb script, cast, acting, and cinematography. Without revealing spoilers, the second series continues the same story, though the first series ended with some form of closure. My preference would have been for them to start a new primary storyline. If you enjoyed Broadchurch, some other series to consider include Happy Valley, and Mayday. If you like David Tennant, consider trying The Politician’s Husband, and The Escape Artist. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Brokenwood Mysteries (TV Series 2014-2019+)

The Brokenwood Mysteries is a television series from New Zealand. The two primary characters are Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd and Detective Sergeant Kristin Sims, who investigate murders in a small village in New Zealand. The series has aired since 2014, and so far there are 24 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a highly entertaining and light series, and several reviews accurately describe it as New Zealand’s answer to Midsomer Murders. There is an abundance of amusing dry wit and humor in each episode. It fun to follow detective Shepherd driving in his old car, his affection for country music, and his quirkiness with talking to the bodies of the recently murdered. If you enjoyed the Brokenwood Mysteries, consider trying Midsomer Murders, or the Last Detective.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Case Sensitive (TV Series 2011-2012)

Case Sensitive is a television series from ITV. The characters and stories are based on some novels. The two primary characters are Detective Sergeant (DS) Charlie Zailer and Detective Constable (DC) Simon Waterhouse, who investigate murders together. Zailer is portrayed by Olivia Williams, and Waterhouse is portrayed by Darren Boyd. The series ran from 2011 to 2012, and there are two independent stories or cases than run about 2 hours each. This was a solid and entertaining police procedural, and I was disappointed that it had such a short run. The acting was good, and there was chemistry between both characters. It is one that I plan to watch again in the future. If you enjoyed Case Sensitive, some other series to consider include Vera, Shetland, Hinterland, and Inspector Lynley Mysteries. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Dirk Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Collateral (TV Series 2017)

Collateral is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Kip Glaspie, who is portrayed by British actress Carey Mulligan. The series begins with Glaspie investigating the murder of a pizza delivery man. The series ran in 2017, and runs about four hours.
This was an entertaining series, and I found the Glaspie character to be intriguing and resolute, and I was immensely disappointed that the series was not renewed. If you are an avid viewer of British television, the rest of the cast includes a number of familiar faces. If you enjoyed Collateral, some other series to consider include Unforgotten and Marcella.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Commander (TV Series 2003-2008)

The Commander is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Commander Clare Blake, who leads a team of detectives investigating murder in London. Commander Blake is portrayed by actress Amanda Burton. The series ran from 2003 to 2008, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases than run up to 180 minutes each.
It has been a while since viewing, but I recall this this being an entertaining series. Without giving away any spoilers, the Blake character bears some rough similarities to the Tennison character in Prime Suspect. If you enjoyed The Commander, some others series to consider are Prime Suspect, and Babylon. If you like the actress Amanda Burton, consider trying the series Silent Witness, or Helen West. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dalziel & Pascoe (TV Series 1996-2007)

Dalziel & Pascoe is a television series from the BBC. The characters originate from some novels. The primary characters are Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel and Detective Sergeant Peter Pascoe, who investigate murders together in the Yorkshire area. Dalziel is portrayed by actor Warren Clarke, and Pascoe is portrayed by actor Colin Buchanan. The series ran from 1996 to 2007, and there are a total of 46 independent stories or cases that run up to 120 minutes each. This is a solid police procedural, and one that I would recommend. Dalziel is politically incorrect and rough around the edges, but Pascoe sometimes helps smooth out some of those aspects. There is some subtle humor with the quirkiness of Dalziel. If you enjoyed Dalziel & Pascoe, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, Cracker, Rebus, and George Gently. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dark Heart (TV Series 2018)

Dark Heart is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Will Wagstaffe, who is portrayed by actor Tom Riley. The series ran in 2018, and there are three independent stories that run about two hours each. I have not yet seen the series. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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DCI Banks (TV Series 2010-2016)

DCI Banks is a television series from ITV. The character and stories are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Alan Banks, who leads a team of detectives solving murders in Yorkshire. Banks is portrayed by actor Stephen Tompkinson. Two other detective characters are portrayed by actresses Andrea Lowe and Caroline Catz. The series ran form 2010 to 2016, and 16 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is an great and entertaining police procedural, and one that I have watched again already. If you enjoyed DCI Banks, some other series to consider include Vera, Hinterland, and Shetland. If you like Caroline Catz, consider the series Murder in Suburbia. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Death in Paradise (TV Series 2011-2021)

Death in Paradise is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is a British police detective, who now serves in the British islands. There have been three different actors and actresses in the role of the primary character. The series has run since 2011, and so far, there are 76 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. While I did view a few of the stories from the first season, the series simply is not my preference, and the island setting did not interest me. The series is light and quirky, so if you are looking for a series with some humor, you might give this one a try. If you enjoyed Death in Paradise, consider try the series The Last Detective, or Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Endeavour (TV Series 2012-2020+)

Endeavour is a television series from ITV. The series is a prequel of Inspector Morse, while Inspector Lewis is a sequel. The primary character is obviously Endeavour Morse, and it traces his start as a Detective Constable (DC). Morse is portrayed by actor Shaun Evans. The series has run since 2012, and so far, there are 30 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a great police procedural, and some have even argued it is better than original. The acting and cinematography are superb, and accompanied with great music from Barrington Pheloug. This prequel is a great companion to the Inspector Morse franchise, and I am a fan of all three series. It should be noted that the daughter of John Thaw is part of the cast. If you enjoyed Endeavour, some other series to consider are George Gently, and Foyle’s War. If you enjoy actor Shaun Evans, consider the mini-series The Take.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Falcón (TV Series 2012)

Falcón is a television series from Sky Atlantic. The primary character is Chief Inspector Javier Falcón, who is a police detective solving murder in Seville, Spain. Falcón is portrayed by actor Maron Csokas, who has appeared in numerous theatrical films, including the Lord of the Rings. Actress Emilia Fox, from the Silent Witness series, portrays the separated wife of Falcón. There was only one series, which ran in 2012, and there are two independent stories or cases that run about two hours each. This was entertaining police procedural and worth a view, especially if you are looking for an English language series set in a country outside of the UK. If you enjoyed Falcón, another series to consider is Zen, which is set in Italy.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Fall (TV Series 2013-2016)

The Fall is a television series from the BBC. The primary character Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, who is sent from London to Belfast, Northern Ireland, in order to help push along a stalled murder investigation. She quickly determines that there is a serial killer. Gibson is portrayed by actress Gillian Anderson. It is one singular case, and spans two series. The first series aired in 2013 and runs about five hours, and the second series aired in 2014 and runs about six hours. There is a third series aired in 2016 and also runs about six hours. The first series was an entertaining thriller and police procedural. I am typically not a fan of series where the same storyline spans multiple series. I would have preferred that they gave closure in the first series, and began an entirely different case in the second series. But given that, The Fall was still an entertaining view. If you enjoyed The Fall, some other series to consider include Happy Valley, Line of Duty, Touching Evil, and Prey.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Foyle's War (TV Series 2002-2015)

Foyle’s War is a television series from ITV. The series was created by Anthony Horowitz, who was involved with Poirot, Midsomer Murders, Murder in Mind, Collision, and Injustice. The primary character is Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle. The series starts out during World War II, where Foyle investigates crime and murder in the coastal town of Hastings. The series later moves into post war London, where Foyle joins MI-5, the British domestic security service. Foyle is portrayed by actor Michael Kitchen. The series ran from 2002 to 2015, and there are 28 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a outstanding and entertaining series, with superb acting and cinematography. Some of the crimes during war period are quite interesting, and they made an interesting transition to his post-war role with MI5. If you enjoyed Foyle’s War, some other series to consider include Endeavour, The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, The Bletchley Circle, and The Game.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector George Gently (TV Series 2007-2017)

Inspector George Gently series is a television series from the BBC. The series is set during the 1960s, and is based on some characters from some novels. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) George Gently and Detective Sergeant (DS) John Bacchus, who investigate murders in Northumberland. The series ran from 2007 to 2017, and there are 25 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a great retro police procedural, and a favorite of mine. The cinematography and acting are great, and they bring the characters to life and are perfect in the roles. It is fun to watch the antics of Bacchus, trying to be “cool” during the 1960s, and how Gently observes and sometimes laughs. If you enjoyed George Gently, some other series to consider include Endeavour, A Touch of Frost, and Dalziel & Pascoe.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Giri / Haji (TV Series 2019)

Giri / Haji is a television series from the BBC. The title is Japanese and translates as “Duty/Shame.” The series is set in London and Japan, with dialogue both in English and Japanese. The story concerns a detective who travels from Tokyo to London searching for his brother, who was involved with organized crime and previously thought to have been dead. In London he is assisted by a Detective Constable, who is portrayed Kelly Macdonald. The series aired in 2019, and there are 8 episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed. This was an entertaining series, especially with being set in two countries. If you enjoy the Kelly Macdonald, consider the series State of Play and The Victim.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Guilty (TV Mini-Series 2013)

The Guilty is television mini-series from ITV. The story concerns the disappearnce of a young boy, who is found dead five years later. The investigation is lead by Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Maggie Brand, who is portrayed by actress Tamsin Greig. The cast also includes actor Darren Boyd. The mini-series was released in 2013, and runs about three hours.
This was an entertaining procedural with good plot development and rotation through various suspects, and an unexpected ending. If you enjoyed The Guilty, some other series to consider include Broadchurch. If you like the actor Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and Dirk Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hidden (TV Series 2018)

Hidden is a television series from Welsh network S4C. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Cadi John, who is portrayed by actress Sian Reese-Williams. The series contains dialogue is both Welsh and English. The series ran in 2018, and is spread across eight one hour episodes. I plan on watching the series in the near future.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hinterland (TV Series 2013-2016)

Hinterland is a television series from BBC Wales. It follows a team of police detectives solving murders in a rural part of Wales. There is a very minor amount of dialogue that is in Welsh, which is really only several sentences in each episode, and those are subtitled. They simultaneously filmed an English dialogue version, and a Welsh dialogue version for broadcast in Wales. The series ran from 2013 to 2016, and there are 26 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a superb series, with great casting and cinematography. It is more edgy than Vera, but a similar rural atmosphere. If you enjoyed Hinterland, some other series to consider are Broadchurch, and Suspects.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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I, Anna (Theatrical Movie 2012)

I, Anna is a theatrical film that was released in the UK. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Bernie Reid, who is a police detective in London. It a noir type film, and Reid romantically falls for a woman who is a possible suspect in a murder investigation. Reid is portrayed by actor Gabriel Byrne. The movie was released in 2012, and runs about 90 minutes. The movie was somewhat dry, and was an average view. If you enjoyed I, Anna, some other series or movies to consider include Dead Gorgeous. If you like the actor Gabriel Byrne, consider trying Secret State, or Quirke. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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In the Dark (TV Series 2017)

In the Dark is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Helen Weeks, who is portrayed by actress MyAnna Buring. Another minor character, Detective Inspector (DI) Adam Perrin is portrayed by actor David Leon from the series Vera. The series ran in 2017, and there are two separate stories or cases that run about two hours each. I have yet to see the series, but plan to watch it.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Alleyn Mysteries (TV Series 1990-1994)

Inspector Alleyn Mysteries is a television series from the BBC. The series is set during the late 1930s, and based on novels. The primary character Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Roderick Alleyn, who investigates murders. Alleyn is portrayed by actor Patrick Malahide, who has guest starred in a number of crime and mystery series, and also known from Game of Thrones. The series ran from 1990 to 1994, and there are a total of nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. I only watched the first couple of episodes. The series was an average production, and was a bit dry and slow for my taste.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Lewis (TV Series 2006-2015)

Inspector Lewis is a television series from ITV. The series is a sequel to Inspector Morse, while Endeavour is a prequel. The primary characters are Detective Inspector Robbie Lewis and Detective Sergeant James Hathaway. Lewis portrayed by actor Kevin Whately, who reprised his role from Morse, and Hathaway is portrayed by actor Laurence Fox, who is a first cousin of actress Emilia Fox from the Silent Witness series. The series ran from 2006 to 2015, and there are 33 stories that run over 90 minutes each.
This is a superbly enjoyable series, and I love the educational setting in Oxford. There is significant character development over the course of this series, especially with the Hathaway character. My only criticism is that some of the plots have been trivial and used before in other series, but this may be irrelevant to more casual viewers of British television. If you enjoy Inspector Lewis, some other series to consider include Vera, DCI Banks, A Touch of Frost, and George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Lynley Mysteries (TV Series 2001-2007)

Inspector Lynley Mysteries is a television series from the BBC. The characters are based on some novels. The primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Thomas Lynley and Detective Sergeant (DS) Barbara Havers, who solve murders in the London area. Lynley is portrayed by actor Nathaniel Parker, and Havers is portrayed by actress Sharon Small. The series ran from 2001 to 2007, and consists of 23 independent stories or cases that run over 90 minutes each.
The series is a good production and very entertaining. Lynley is an aristocrat, while Havers comes from a working class background, so this obviously leads to contention and insecurity in their working relationship at various times. Both actors are superb in the role. If you enjoyed Inspector Lynley Mysteries, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, Inspector Morse, and Midsomer Murders. If you like actor Nathaniel Parker, consider the mini-series Injustice.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Morse (TV Series 1987-2000)

Inspector Morse is a a legendary television series from ITV, and based on some novels. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Endeavour Morse and Detective Sergeant (DS) Robbie Lewis, who solve murders in the Oxford area. Morse is portrayed by actor John Thaw, and Lewis is portrayed by Kevin Whatley. The series ran from 1987 to 2000, and there are 33 independent stories or cases that run over 90 minutes each.
This series is superb. I have seen it more than once, and it has aged quite well. There is depth and complexity to the Morse character, which unravels over the course of the series. The series led to the sequel Inspector Lewis, and the prequel Endeavour, which actually features John Thaw’s daughter. If you enjoyed Inspector Morse, some other series to consider include Prime Suspect, George Gently, and Foyle’s War.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jericho of Scotland Yard (TV Series 2005)

Jericho is a television series from ITV. The series was renamed Jericho of Scotland Yard when it was released in the USA. The primary character is Detective Inspector Michael Jericho. The series ran in 2005 and there are four independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This series is not one which I have seen yet, but hope to in the future.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jo (TV Series 2013)

Jo is a television series that was funded by a number of European networks. The dialogue is in English, and the series is set and filmed in Paris. The primary character is Commander Jo Saint-Clair, who leads a team of detectives investigating murders. He is portrayed by actor Jean Reno. There was only one series which ran in 2013, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This series was very average. The positive aspects include the acting of Jean Reno, and the setting and cinematography of Paris. Unfortunately, it comes across as a American produced show. The storylines were rushed to fit a one hour segment. The strange aspect is that all actors spoke with American accents, except for Jean Reno. The concept of this series would had better potential with a different production posture. If you enjoyed Jo, two other series to consider are Falcón and Zen.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Last Detective (TV Series 2003-2007)

The Last Detective is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Constable (DC) “Dangerous” Davies, who is based on some novels, and the nickname was given to make fun of him. Dangerous is a somewhat bumbling detective who solves crimes and murders with his civilian sidekick. Dangerous is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 2003 to 2007, and there are a total of 17 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This is a charming and fun series, which I have viewed more than once. Bad luck seems to follow Davies, but he eventually solves the cases. There is humor in every episode, including the razzing that he receives from his superior and fellow detectives. What particularly stands out is his relationship with his civilian sidekick, who participates in almost every case, and changes jobs every episode, as he can’t seem to keep one. If you enjoyed The Last Detective, some other series to consider are Murder in Suburbia, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, and Father Brown.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Level (TV Series 2016)

The Level is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Sargent (DS) Nancy Devlin, who is assigned to investigate the murder of a corrupt businessman, which she had past dealings with. The series in 2016, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. I have yet to see the series, but hope to in the future.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Life of Crime (TV Series 2013)

Life of Crime is a television television series from ITV. The primary character is Denise woods, and shows her career across three decades as a police constable, detective sergeant, and detective inspector. She believes three different murders in each decades was committed by the same person. The series aired in 2013, and there are three episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed. This was an entertaining series, with the unique aspect of the flashbacks to three different decades. If you enjoyed Life of Crime, some other series to consider include Murderland, and Place of Execution. If you like the actress Haley Atwell, consider the series Restless, Falcón, and the Sally Lockhart Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Life on Mars (TV Series 2006-2007)

Life on Mars is a television television series from ITV. The primary character is police detective Sam Tyler. The series is pseudo science fiction, as while on duty in 2006, Tyler gets knocked unconscious and wakes up in 1973. Tyler is portrayed by British actor John Simm. The series aired from 2006 to 2007, and there are sixteen episodes that run about an hour each. I have yet to view the series but hope to. If you like the actor John Simm, consider State of Play, Code of a Killer, or Prey.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Loch Ness / The Loch (TV Series 2017)

The Loch is a television series from ITV. When it was released in the USA, the series was renamed Loch Ness. The primary character is Detective Sargent Annie Redford, who investigates a murder on the shores of Loch Ness in Scotland. The series ran in 2017, and there are six episodes that run about 45 minutes each. I have not see the series yet, but plan to.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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London Kills (TV Series 2019-2020)

London Kills is a television series commissioned by Acorn. When it was released in the USA. The series follows a team of detectives solving murders in London. Two of the main characters are Detective Inspector David Bradford, who is portrayed by actor Hugo Speer, and Detective Sergeant Vivienne Cole, who is portrayed by Sharon Small. The series ran from 2019-2020, and there are 10 episodes that run about 45 minutes each.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get past the second episode before I abandoned watching this series. The posture came across like I was watching an American television series. If you like the actress Sharon Small, consider the series Inspector Lynley Mysteries or The Bay. If you like the actor Hugo Speer, consider the series Father Brown or Five Days.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Luther (TV Series 2010-2019)

Luther is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) John Luther, who investigates murders in London. He is obsessive about his job, which lead to problems, including with his personal life. Luther is portrayed by actor Idris Elba, who won a Golden Globe award for this role. The series ran from 2010 to 2019, and there are a total of 20 episodes.
This is a solidly produced series and enjoyable view, with a bit of an edge to the character and crimes. I am actually behind in viewing this series, and have only seen the first. If you enjoyed Luther, some other series to consider include Rebus, Cracker, and Murphy’s Law.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Maigret (TV Series 1992-1993)

Maigret is a television series from ITV. The primary character is French police detective Jules Maigret, who is portrayed by actor Michael Gambon. The series has ran from 1992 to 1993, and there are 12 episodes that run about an hour each.
It has been years since I viewed Maigret, and do not even have a faint recollection. The series has been remade, and Maigret is portrayed by actor Rowan Atkinson.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Maigret (TV Series 2016-2017)

Maigret is a television series from ITV. This is an reboot of series of the same name from the early 1990s. The primary character is French police detective Jules Maigret, who is portrayed by actor Rowan Atkinson. The series has ran from 2016 to 2017, and there are four independent episodes or stories that run about about 90 minutes each. They are billed more as television movies, so IMDb lists each separately. The series was not renewed.
This is an outstanding series. There is a somewhat dark noir type of atmosphere to the series. Atkinson is superb in this role, and I really enjoyed the character and acting. I was insanely disppointed this series was not renewed. If you enjoyed Maigret, some other series to consider include George Gently and Endeavour.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Manhunt (TV Series 2019+)

Manhunt is a television series from ITV. This is a dramatization of a true story about the 2004 murder of French student Amélie Delagrange. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton, who is portrayed by actor Martin Clunes. The series aired in 2019, and is spread across three episodes that run about an hour each. It was renewed for a second series. This was a solidly entertaining procedural. If you enjoyed Manhunt, another true crime drama series to consider is Code of Killer. If you like the actor Martin Clunes, consider the series Arthur & George or A Mother’s Son.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Marcella (TV Series 2016-2020)

Marcella is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Sergeant (DS) Marcella Backland, who is portrayed by actress Anna Friel. The first series is one storyline, where Marcella is brought back to help investigate a new case that bears similarities to a prior unsolved serial murder case that she worked. The series aired from 2016 to 2020, and there are a total of 25 episodes that run about an hour each.
The is was an entertaining series. Marcella is complex and flawed character. There was good plot and sub-plot development. If you enjoyed Marcella, some other series to consider are Luther and Thorne.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Messiah (TV Series 2001-2008)

Messiah is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is a detective that leads a team that hunts serial killers of some gruesome murders. The primary detective in the first four cases is portrayed by actor Ken Stott. The primary detective in the last case is portrayed by actor Marc Warren. The series ran from 2001 to 2008, and there are a total of five independent stories or cases that run up to 180 minutes each.
This series was produced well, and was worth a view, but I felt that it degraded in each subsequent series. If you enjoyed Messiah, some other series to consider include Touching Evil, Wire in the Blood, and Cracker. If you like Ken Stott, consider the series Rebus, and The Vice. If you like Marc Warren, consider the series Hustle, and he is also featured in The Vice with Ken Stott.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Midsomer Murders (1997-2020)

Midsomer Murders is a long running series from ITV, and the characters are based on some novels. The primary characters are two detectives that solve murders in the English countryside. Over the course of the series, there have been two different characters and actors in the role of the lead detective. And four different characters and actors in the assistant detective role. The series has run since 1996, and there are over 116 independent cases or stories that run about 90 minutes each. The show is a classic. It is quirky and light hearted, and does not take itself seriously. It makes everyone in the English countryside out to be somewhat quirky, including the detectives. The simple rule of thumb is that if you like one episode, you will generally like them all, as they follow a simple formula. But given that, starting with Series 16, I feel that the series took a nose dive. The scripts and acting became dull, and all quirkiness and charm is gone. If you enjoy Midsomer Murders, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, The Last Detective, and the Brokenwood Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Bay (TV Series 2019-2021+)

The Bay is a television series from British network ITV. The primary character is Detective Sergeant (DS) Lisa Armstong who is family liaison officer on a murder investigation team, and also a divorced mother of two teenage children. The series is set in the area of Morecambe Bay in Lancashire County on the west coast of England. Armstrong is portrayed by Scottish actress Morven Christie. The series has run since 2019, and so far there have been two seasons, each with an independent case that spans the seasons. Each season has six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a third season.
This series was entertaining and solidly produced, and offers a different perspective focused on a family liaison officer. Christie's portrayal of the Armstrong character is outstanding. Armstrong has a propensity to sometimes make spontaneously bad decisions, where I found myself saying to the TV "don't do that Lisa," and other times brings brilliance to the investigation. If you like actress Morven Christie, consider the series Grantchester, or The Replacement.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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A Mind to Kill (TV Series 1994-2004)

This series is from Welsh channel S4C. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Noel Bain, who leads a team solving murders in Wales. Bain is portrayed by Welsh actor Philip Madoc. The series ran from 1994 to 2004, and there are a total of 21 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is an average series. It was a bit dry and slow moving for my taste. If you enjoyed A Mind to Kill, some other similar series include Wycliffe, and Inspector Alleyn Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murder in Suburbia (TV Series 2004-2005)

Murder in Suburbia is a television series from ITV. The primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Kate “Ash” Ashurst and Detective Sergeant (DS) Emma “Scribbs” Scribbins, a female duo that solves murders in suburban London. Ashurst is portrayed by actress Caroline Catz, and Scribbins is portrayed by actress Lisa Faulker. The series ran from 2004 to 2005, and there are a total of twelve independent stories or cases that run about an hour each.
This was a solid and entertaining series, with some humor injected. There is great acting and chemistry between the characters, and was fun to watch. If you enjoyed Murder in Suburbia, some other series to consider are The Last Detective, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, New Tricks, and the outright comedy Vexed. If you like the actress Caroline Catz, consider the series DCI Banks.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murder Investigation Team (TV Series 2003-2005)

Murder Investigation Team is a television series from ITV. The series follows a team of detectives solving murders in the London area. The series ran from 2003 to 2005, and there are a total of 12 independent stories or cases that run up to 75 minutes each The first series was entertaining and worth a view, but I felt that it degraded in the second series. If you enjoyed Murder Investigation Team, some other series to consider include Trial & Retribution, New Tricks, and Suspects.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murderland (TV Mini-Series 2009)

Murderland is a television mini-series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Douglas Hain, who was involved with a murder investigation of a mother, which goes unsolved. Several years later, the daughter of the mother contacts him, and they investigate it again together. Hain is portrayed by actor Robbie Coltrane, well know for his role in the Harry Potter films. The mini-series aired in 2009, and is a total of three hours.
There are three parts to the mini-series. It is unique in that each part presents the murder from the point of view of a different character. It was well produced and an enjoyable series. My only criticism was that there is bit too much repetition in the story and scenes as each point of view is shown. But given that, it is still a mini-series that I would recommend for consideration. If you enjoyed Murderland, some other series to consider include Place of Execution. If you like the actor Robbie Coltrane, consider the series Cracker.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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New Blood (TV Series 2016)

New Blood is a television series from the BBC. It as written by Anthony Horowitz, who is widely know for other series listed here, such as Foyle’s War, Injustice, Collision, etc. The two primary characters are a police detective and an investigator in the fraud squad. Both are very new in their jobs and trying to prove themselves, hence the series title. The series aired in 2016, and consists of three cases or stories. The first runs about three hours, and the other two run about two hours each.. This is not a typical British crime and mystery series, nor does it bear any similarity to other series from Anthony Horowitz. This is an action comedy, and resembles what would come from Hollywood, such as Lethal Weapon and Bad Boys. For example, the duo leaps off a building into a pool from twenty stories up, one wants to date the sister of the other, and there is a SUV crash where it rolls over multiple times and they walk away with barely a scratch. As long as you know this before viewing, and this type of posture is something you like, the series is still an enjoyable view. If you enjoyed New Blood, some other series to consider include Babylon, and Hustle.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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New Tricks (TV Series 2003-2015)

New Tricks is a television series from the BBC. The series follows the fictional Unsolved Crime and Open Case Squad (UCOS) of the metropolitan police in London. The squad is lead by a police detective, and there are three retired police detectives who are brought out of retirement as contractors. The series aired from 2003 to 2015, and and there are 107 episodes that run about an hour each. This is an entertaining and light police procedural, which does not take itself too seriously, and has some occasional humor in every episode. For example, in some of the earlier episodes, the ex-wives of Gerry Standing are all friends, which drives him crazy. It is a plot line which I would have wish was more recurring. Gerry Standing is portrayed by actor Dennis Waterman, and careful listeners might pick up the fact that he sings the theme song for the series. If you enjoyed New Tricks, some other series to consider include the Last Detective and Blue Murder. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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No Offence (TV Series 2015-2018)

No Offence is a television mini-series from British Channel 4. The series focusing on a team of police detectives in Manchester, who are predominantly women. There are numerous cases, but one ongoing case is a serial murder of women with Down’s syndrome. The series ran from 2015 to 2018, and there are 21 episodes running about an hour each.
This was entertaining police procedural with occasional unique humor from a woman's perspective. There is good character development of each, with some thoughtful sub-plots. If you enjoyed No Offence, some other series to consider include Cuffs, and Babylon.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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P.D. James - Death in Holy Orders (TV Mini-Series 2003)

Death in Holy Orders is a television mini-series from the BBC. The character and story are based on a book from author P.D. James. The primary character is Commander Adam Dalgleish, who investigates murder. He is portrayed by actor, Martin Shaw. The mini-series aired in 2003, and is about three hours.
This was a very good and solid mystery drama, and a must for any fans of Martin Shaw. This story concerns the investigation of a mysterious death at a remote religious institute. If you enjoyed Death in Holy Orders, some other series to consider include Vera, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, and Inspector Lewis. If you like the actor Martin Shaw, consider the series George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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P.D. James - The Murder Room (TV Mini-Series 2003)

The Murder Room is a television mini-series from the BBC. The character and story are based on a book from author P.D. James. The primary character is Commander Adam Dalgleish, who investigates murder. He is portrayed by actor, Martin Shaw. The mini-series aired in 2003, and is about three hours.
This was a very good and solid mystery drama, and a must for any fans of Martin Shaw. This story concerns a murder at a museum about famous murders. If you enjoyed The Murder Room, some other series to consider include Vera, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, and Inspector Lewis. If you like the actor Martin Shaw, consider the series George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Paranoid (TV Series 2016)

Paranoid is a television series from ITV. The series follows a team of police detectives who investigate the murder of a physician. The series ran in 2016, and there are a total of episodes that run about 45 minutes each. I have yet to see the series, but plan to watch it in the near future.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Pie in the Sky (TV Series 1994-1997)

Pie in the Sky is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Henry Crabbe. He is a near retirement detective, who opens a restaurant called Pie in the Sky, but keeps getting involved in cases that prevent his retirement. Crabbe is portrayed by actor Richard Griffiths. The series ran from 1994 to 1997, and there are a total of 40 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This appears to be a fun and lighthearted series. I found it a bit too slow moving for me, so I only watched the first few stories.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Prime Suspect (1991-2006)

Prime Suspect is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Jane Tennison, who leads a team that investigates murders. She is a rising female detective in the ranks, and deals with male chauvinism. She is also obsessive, and develops a problem with alcohol. Tennison is portrayed by actress Helen Mirren. The series was written by Lynda La Plante, who also wrote Above Suspicion, and Trial & Retribution. The series ran from 1991 to 2006, and there are a total of nine independent stories or cases that run form 90 to 180 minutes each. This, quite simply, is a superb series that I have seen more than once. There is a prequel of Prime Suspect in the works from ITV, which will be called Tennison. If you enjoyed Prime Suspect, consider trying the series Cracker, Throne, Luther, Rebus, and Dalziel & Pascoe.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Prime Suspect 1973 (TV Series 2017)

Prime Suspect 1973 is a television series from ITV. When it aired on PBS in America, the series was renamed Prime Suspect: Tennison. Similar to the successful Endeavour prequel to Inspector Morse, Prime Suspect 1973 is a prequel to Prime Suspect, which featured Helen Mirren. Prime Suspect 1937 follows Jane Tennison as a Woman Police Constable (WPC) at the beginning of her career. WPC Tennison is portrayed by actress Stefanie Martini. Coincidentally, Martini portrayed a character in Endeavour. The series ran in 2017, and there are a total of six episodes that run about an hour each. Despite high ratings, it was announced in June 2017 that the series was not renewed for second series.
This was an enjoyable and well produced series. Across the six episodes, there is one major case, as well as several smaller cases. The prequel does a good job of giving glimpses of Tennison early career, and how certain character attributes developed. If you enjoyed Prime Suspect 1973, consider the Endeavour prequel to Inspector Morse, and other retro series, such as George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Red Riding (TV Series 2009)

Red Riding is a television series from British network Channel 4. The series consists of a series three movies, which are set in 1974, 1980, and 1983. The story centers on police in Yorkshire, and the story interweaves serial murders and police corruption. The series ran in 2009, and consists of three movies that run about 100 minutes each. It’s been a while since I’ve seen this series, but remember it being enjoyable. There’s an extensive cast of well known British actors.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Rebus (TV Series 2006-2007)

Rebus is a television series from ITV. The characters and stories are based on some novels. The two main characters are Detective Inspector (DI) John Rebus, and Detective Sergeant (DS) Siobhan Clarke, who solve murders in Edinburgh, Scotland. Rebus is portrayed by actor Ken Stott, and Clarke is portrayed by actress Claire Price. The series ran from 2006 to 2007, and consists of ten independent stories that run about an hour each. This is a well produced and great series, with superb scripts, acting, and cinematography. Rebus is quite edgy and frequently at odds with his superior, while Clarke sees through this and how Rebus solves cases. This is a series that I have viewed more than once, and would recommend. If you enjoyed Rebus, some other series to consider include Prime Suspect, and Luther. If you like the actor Ken Stott, consider the series The Vice, and Messiah.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Ripper Street (TV Series 2012-2016)

Ripper Street is a television series from the BBC. It is set in London shortly after the “Jack the Ripper” murders, and follows a team of police detectives that investigate other murders. The series ran from 2012 to 2016, and there are 37 independent stories that run about an hour each. I’ve not seen the series, but plan to watch it.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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River (TV Series 2015)

River is a television series from the BBC. The series is set in London. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) John River who is haunted, literally, by his recently deceased partner, Detective Sergeant (DS) Jackie Stevenson. River is portrayed by actor Stellan Skarsgård, and Stevenson is portrayed by actress Nicola Walker. The series ran in 2015, and there were six episodes that run about an hour each. It was not renewed.
The overall premise and setup of the series is very unique. River sees and converses with the “ghost” of his recently deceased partner. The execution was lacking, where the series was average at best. If you like the actor Stellan Skarsgård, consider trying the movie Our Kind of Traitor. If you like the actress Nicola Walker, consider trying the series Unforgotten, Touching Evil, and MI5.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Ruth Rendell Myseries (TV Series 1987-2000)

Ruth Rendell Myseries is a television series from ITV. The series appears to be a difficult one to categorize, as some contain general mysteries, but the majority feature the recurring character Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Reg Wexford. The series ran from 1987 to 2000, and the individual stories or cases run from one to three hours each. I have not seen this series as of yet.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Scott & Bailey (TV Series 2011-2015)

Scott & Bailey is a television series from ITV. The two main characters are Detective Constable (DC) Janet Scott and Detective Constable Rachel Bailey, who solve murder and crime in the Manchester area. Scott is portrayed by actress Lesley Sharp, and Bailey is portrayed by actress Suranne Jones. The series ran from 2011 to 2015, and there are 30 independent cases or stores that run about an hour each.
This is a well produced show, and quite popular. I only viewed the first two series, as I felt that it ventured too much into their personal lives for my taste.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Second Sight (TV Series 2000-2001)

Second Sight is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Ross Tanner. He is diagnosed with a rare disease and starts to lose his eyesight, while continuing to investigate murders. A female colleague helps him cover up and work around his vision issues. Tanner is portrayed by actor Clive Owen. The series ran from 2000 to 2001, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. It has been a while since I viewed this series, but I recall it being a good, but not great, police procedural with a unique twist. It obviously gets over the top with his ability to hide his eyesight problems.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Shadow Line (TV Mini-Series 2011)

The Shadow Line is a television series from the BBC. The mini-series focuses on Detective Inspector (DI) Jonah Gabriel, who investigates a murder, and Joseph Bede who runs a florist shop as a front for organized crime. Gabriel is portrayed by actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Bede is portrayed by Christopher Eccleston. The mini-series ran in 2011, and is spread across seven episode that run about an hour each. It’s been several years since I saw the series, but recall it being worth a view. If you like actor Christopher Eccleston, consider the series Safe House, Fortitude, Blackout, and Cracker.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Shetland (TV Series 2013-2019+)

Shetland is a television series from BBC Scotland. The stories and characters are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Jimmy Perez, who leads a team investigating murders in the rural Shetland islands of Scotland. Perez is portrayed by actor Douglas Henshall. The series has run since 2013.
The series was outstanding and enjoyable, and one of my favorites. The acting and cinematography are all superb, and one of the standouts is the character of Detective Sergeant (DS) Alison “Tosh” MacIntosh. She is a young and eager detective, and it is fun to watch how Perez guides and develops her. If you enjoyed Shetland, some other series to consider trying include Vera, DCI Banks, and the Suspicions of Mr. Whicher. If you like the actor Douglas Henshall, consider the series Collision, The Silence, and Black Work.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Silence (TV Mini-Series 2010)

The Silence is a television series from the BBC. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Jim Edwards, and his niece Amelia Edwards, who is deaf and recently had a cochlear implant. Amelia witnesses the murder of a police officer, and her uncle investigates. Edwards is portrayed by actor Douglas Henshall, and Edwards is portrayed by actress Genevieve Barr. The series ran in 2010, and consists of four episodes that are one hour each.
The Silence is an average but entertaining series to watch, and unique as one of the primary characters is deaf. Without giving and spoilers, The biggest criticism that this series receives is the abruptness of the ending. If you enjoyed the Silence, some other series to consider trying include Second Sight, which is about a police officer who is losing his eyesight. If you like the actor Douglas Henshall, consider the series Shetland, Collision, and Black Work.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Suspects (TV Series 2014-2015)

Suspects is a television series from UK Channel 5. The series is set in London, and the primary characters are a team of three police detectives who investigate major crimes, including murder. The series has run since 2014, and so far, there are 13 cases or stories that run about an hour each. This is a solid and entertaining series that brings some unique aspects. First, the actors were given facts about the situation or scene, and the dialogue is largely ad-libbed. Second, the cinematography comes across as live action, including using the cameras from interview rooms. And lastly, the cases and stories start immediately, and there is little exposure to the personal lives of the police.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Taggart (TV Series 1983-2010)

Taggart is a television series from Scottish Television (STV). The series is set in Glasgow, and follows of team of detectives solving murders. The series ran from 1983 to 2010, and consists of 109 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. As the series aired for nearly three decades, the entire cast of characters and actors were all replaced more than once. It should be noted that I have only seen episodes that feature the lead character of DCI Matt Burke, who is not a likable character, but balanced by the character DS Jackie Reid. It is an average show, where similar to Wycliffe, many of the characters are unlikeable and miserable.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Thorne (TV Series 2010)

Thorne is a television series from Sky network. The character and stories are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Tom Thorne, who leads a team investigating murders. Thorne is portrayed by actor David Morrissey, well known from the Walking Dead. There was only one series, which ran in 2010, and there are two independent stories or cases that run about 160 minutes each. They are billed more like television movies. These are well produced, which I plan to view again.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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A Touch of Frost (TV Series 1992-2010)

A Touch of Frost is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Jack Frost, who investigates murders in the fictional city of Denton. Frost is a widow, and a “working man’s detective” who demonstrates interest in victims of the crimes and the community. Frost is also opinionated and frequently clashes with his superior, Superintendent Mullett. Frost is portrayed by actor Sir David Jason. The series ran from 1992 to 2010, and there are a total of 42 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a superb and enjoyable series from end to end across the entire run, and a series that I have viewed more than once. There is some occasional subtle humor, such as the way that Frost winds up Mullett. If you like A Touch of Frost, consider trying the series George Gently, Midsomer Murders, and Dalziel & Pascoe. If you like the actor David Jason, consider the series Diamond Geezer / Rough Diamond.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Touching Evil (TV Series 1997-1999)

Touching Evil is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Dave Creegan, who leads the fictitious and elite Organized and Serial Crime Unit (OSC) based in London. Creegan is portrayed by the actor Robson Green. The series ran from 1997 to 1999, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases that run about 2 hours each.
This is a great series, which I loved, and have seen more than once. As it deals with gruesome serial killers, it was a gritty series for its time in the 1990s. It is a series which I wish lasted longer, as I liked the Creegan character. If you enjoyed Touching Evil, consider the series Cracker, Messiah, Waking the Dead, and Wire in the Blood. If you like the actor Robson Green, consider the series Wire in the Blood, and Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Trial & Retribution (TV Series 1997-2009)

Trial & Retribution is a television series from ITV. The series was written by Lynda La Plante, who also wrote Prime Suspect, and Above Suspicion. The series is a police procedural and follows a team of detectives in their murder investigation. It occasionally follows the result of the case to the court room. The series ran from 1997 to 2009, and consists of 22 independent stories or cases that range from 90 to 200 minutes each. This is good and solid series, and was entertaining. It is one that I plan to view again. If you liked Trial & Retribution, consider the series Waking the Dead, and Suspects.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Tunnel (TV Series 2013-2018)

The Tunnel is a series co-produced by Sky Atlantic from the UK and Canal+ from France. It was adapted from a Swedish and Danish language series called The Bridge. The Tunnel begins with a dead body found in the channel tunnel, and half is found on the British side and half on the French side. The primary characters are British police detective Karl Roebuck, who is portrayed by actor Stephen Dillane, and French police detective Elise Wassermann, who is portrayed by actress Clémence Poésy. It should be noted that, roughly speaking, about half of the dialogue is in English and half is in French. The first series aired in 2013, and is one story spread across 10 episodes that run about an hour each. There also are a second and third series.
While the storyline and plot is over the top, this was an entertaining series. The basis is the common serial killer who taunts the police and media. One aspect is that makes the series enjoyable is the Wassermann character, which was nailed by actress Clémence Poésy. Some attributes of Wassermann character reminded of the Lisbeth Salander character from The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, portrayed by Rooney Mara. If you liked The Tunnel, another series to consider with two countries involved is The 100 Code.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Unforgotten (TV Series

Unforgotten is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Cassie Stuart, who is portrayed by actress Nicola Walker, and there are secondary roles portrayed by Trevor Eve and Claire Goose. Stuart leads the investigation into the skeletal remains of a man discovered during a building renovation. The first series aired in 2016, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for second series.
This was an entertaining and engaging police murder procedural. There is good plot development with numerous suspects, and actress Nicola Walker is superb in this role. If you enjoyed Unforgotten, some other series to consider include Shetland, Vera, and Broadchurch. If you like the actress Nicola Walker, consider trying the series Touching Evil, River, MI-5, Inside Men, and Babylon. If you like the actress Claire Goose, consider the series Waking the Dead, The Coroner, and Undeniable. If you like the actor Trever Eve, consider the series Waking the Dead, and Kidnap and Ransom.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Vera (TV Series 2011-2020+)

Vera is a television series from ITV. T he main character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Vera Stanhope, who leads a team of police detectives that solves murders in Northumberland. Vera is portrayed by actress Brenda Blethyn. There are two different characters and actors that portray her lead assistant detective over the course of the series. The series has run since 2011, and so far, there are a total of 40 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a superb series, and would be on the short list as one of my favorites. The characters, acting, chemistry, and cinematography are outstanding. I simply love the Vera character and acting by Brenda Blethyn, and how Vera treats Joe as she would a son. It is a series which I have already viewed more than once, and hope continues for several years. If you enjoyed Vera, some other series to consider include Shetland, and The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Vexed (TV Series 2010-2012)

Vexed is a television series from the BBC, and is an outright comedy. The primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Jack Armstrong, and a female Detective Inspector (DI), which changes characters and actresses in each series. Together, they solve murder in the London area. The series ran from 2010 to 2012, and there are a total of nine independent stores or episodes that run about an hour each.

I found this to be a hilarious police procedural comedy. Armstrong is a lazy, disorganized, and politically incorrect, and he purposely annoys the female partners who are assigned to work with him. But in the end, he does “just enough” to solve the cases with them. If you enjoyed Vexed, consider the series Murder in Suburbia, and The Last Detective.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Waking the Dead (TV Series 2005-2011)

Waking the Dead is a television series from the BBC. The series is set in London, and follows a cold case squad consisting of police detectives, a forensic scientist or pathologist, and a criminal psychologist or profiler. The primary character is Detective Superintendent Peter Boyd, who is portrayed by actor Trevor Eve. The series ran from 2005 to 2011, and there are a total of 46 independent stories or cases that run about 2 hours each.
This a solidly entertaining series, and good production. It provides a nice balance of police investigation with forensics and the psychological or profiling aspect. With the program length of each story, there is always good character and plot development. If you enjoyed Waking the Dead, some other series to consider include Cracker. If you like the actor Trevor Eve, consider the series Kidnap & Ransom. If you like the actress Claire Goose, consider the series The Coroner, and Undeniable. If you like the actress Tara Fitzgerald, her character from Waking the Dead was made into the spin-off series The Body Farm.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Wallander (TV Series 2008-2016)

Wallander is a television series from the BBC. The series is adapted from some novels. The primary character is police detective Kurt Wallander, who leads a team investigating murder in a coastal city in Sweden. Wallander is portrayed by actor Sir Kenneth Branagh. The series ran from 2008 to 2016, and there twelve independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a superb series and one of my favorites. It has outstanding cinematography of Sweden, and a great supporting cast. The fourth series was disappointing, as I felt it was not up to the same standard of the three prior series, and was not as compelling. The series them song led me to discovering the music of Emily Barker and the Red Clay Halo. If you like Wallander, some other series to consider include Vera, Shetland, and The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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What Remains (TV Mini-Series 2013)

What Remains is a television mini-series from the BBC. The primary character is police detective Len Harper, portrayed by actor David Threlfall. Harper investigates the murder of a woman in an apartment building, whom no one seems to have known, or at least claims not to have known. This mini-series aired in 2013, and runs a total of about four hours.
This was a superb mini-series, and has outstanding cinematography and a good supporting cast. The story rotates from the point of view of each person living in the apartment building, and as Harper interviews and questions each, their possibility of having a motive and being a suspect. Without giving away any spoilers, the ending was over the top for my taste, but it was definitely worth the four hours. The Harper character is so likable, that I wish this would have spun off into a ongoing series. If you enjoyed What Remains, consider the series Safe House, Mayday, and Murderland. If you like the actor David Threlfall, consider the series Code of a Killer.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Whitechapel (2009-2013)

Whitechapel is a television series from ITV. The series follows team of police detectives in modern day London. They solve murders which appear to replicate historical murders in the Whitechapel area. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Joseph Chandler, who is portrayed by Rupert Penry-Jones. The series ran from 2009 to 2013, and there area total of eight independent stories or cases that run as long as 180 minutes each.
Based on the premise, the series obviously has a noir feel and atmosphere. The first series was enjoyable, but degraded with each subsequent series. Some aspects of the later episodes take on almost a dark comic book atmosphere, including a character appearing out of a corner, etc.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Winter (TV Series 2014-2015)

Winter is a television series from Australia. The series follows Detective Sergeant Eve Winter, who is a police detective in Sydney. The pilot for the series was a television movie called The Killing Field, and the follow-on series was called Winter. When the series was released in America, bother were branded as Winter. The Killing Field television movie was released in 2014, and runs about 90 minutes. The Winter series ran in 2015, and there area total of six episodes that run about an hour each.
This was an above average production and an enjoyable straight-up police procedural. Winter gets involved with a hit and run accident, and then a murder, and begins to suspect that the two separate cases might be related. If you enjoyed the series Winter, some other Australian series to consider include Janet King and Jack Irish. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Without Motive (TV Series 2000)

Without Motive is a television mini-series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Constable (DC) Jack Mowbray, who is part of team hunting a serial killer that has no apparent motive. Jack has his own opinions on the investigation, and is overlooked by his superiors and more senior members of his team. Jack is portrayed by actor Ross Kemp. The mini-series ran in 2000, and runs about 10 hours. This series was good, but not great, and was a worthwhile view. The first half concerns the hunt for the serial killer, and the second half concerns the court case, etc. Ross Kemp is a good actor, and I would love to see more of him in some crime and mysteries. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Wycliffe (TV Series 1994-1998)

Wycliffe is a television series from ITV. The character and stories are adapted from novels about a police detective in Cornwall. The primary character is Detective Superintendent Charles Wycliffe, who leads a team investigating murders. The series ran from 1994 to 1998, and there are a total of 38 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each.
This was an average series at best. It was very dry, and I stopped watching after the second series. The biggest criticism that I have is that none of the characters were likable, and they all seemed to be miserable.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Zen (TV Series 2011)

Zen is a television series from the BBC. The series was adapted from Italian novels. The primary character is Detective Aurelio Zen, who investigates and solves murders in Italy. Zen is portrayed by actor Rufus Sewell. There was only one series, which ran in 2011, and there are a total of three independent stories or episodes that run about 90 minutes each.
This was a good and entertaining series, and worth a view, especially if you are looking for a series set outside of the UK. The Zen character has numerous females courting him through the series, including witnesses, which added some subtle humor to the series. If you enjoyed Zen, consider trying the series Falcón, which is set in Spain.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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100 Code (TV Series 2015)

100 Code is a series produced by Swedish television and German television. It is also known as The Hundred Code. While not produced by British television, the series is being included as it did air on British television, and half of the dialogue is in English and half is in Swedish. The two primary characters are New York police detective Tommy Conley, who is portrayed by actor Dominic Monaghan, and Swedish police detective Michael Eklund, who is portrayed by Michael Nyqvist. The story is about a serial killer who may committed murders on both sides of the Atlantic. The series aired in 2015, and there are twelve episodes that run about 45 minutes each.
This is a typical over the top serial killer yarn, but was still entertaining. It contains over-used subplots where a serial killer taunts the police and media. The casting is very good, and the actors are both solid in their roles. There is also nice scenery of Sweden. If you enjoyed The 100 Code, and dual country series to consider is The Tunnel.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murder City (TV Series 2005-2006)

Murder City is a television series from ITV. The two primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Susan Alembic and Detective Sergeant (DS) Luke Stone, a mismatched duo who solve murders in London. Alembic is portrayed by actress Amanda Donohoe, and Stone is portrayed by Kris Marshall. The series ran from 2005 to 2006, and there are a total of ten independent stories or cases run up to 90 minutes each. It has been a while since I viewed this series, so my recollection is lacking, but I recall it being average and worth a watch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Campion (TV Series 1989-1990)

Campion is television series from the BBC. The series is period based, and set during the early 1930s. The main character is Albert Campion, who is a private detective. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Campion is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 1989 to 1990, and there are a total of eight cases or stories, and each runs about two hours.
While I did view a few of the stories, this simply was not my preferred type of show, but seemed to be a good production. The series is lighthearted, and fans of Poirot and Marple might find this series enjoyable. If you like the actor Peter Davison, consider trying the series The Last Detective, where he portrayed a likable but somewhat bumbling police detective.

Summary updated on February 15, 2021

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Case Histories (TV Series 2011-2013)

Case Histories is a television series from the BBC. The main character is Jackson Brodie, who is a former police detective, and now works as a private detective in Edinburgh, Scotland. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Brodie is portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs, who is well known from his role in the Harry Potter films. The series ran from 2011 to 2013, and there are six independent cases or stories, and each runs from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
This was a great series, with superb scripts, acting, and cinematography. There is a nice balance of secondary characters, such Brodie leveraging a relationship with a former police counterpart, his office manager trying to get him to pay attention to the business issues, and his relationship with his daughter. If you enjoyed Case Histories, some other series to consider trying are Vera, and DCI Banks. If you like the actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the mini-series The State Within.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dirk Gently (TV Series 2010-2012)

Dirk Gently is a television series from ITV. The main character is Dirk Gently, who runs a private detective agency, and is assisted by Richard MacDuff. Gently is portrayed by Stephen Mangan, MacDuff is portrayed by Darren Boyd, and MacDuff’s girlfriend is portrayed by Helen Baxendale. The series ran from 2010 to 2012, and there are four episodes that run about 60 minutes.
This series is an outright comedy. The Gently character is eccentric and goofy, and believes everything is interconnected but in a random manner. The series was entertaining, has some good laughs, and even ventures into time travel in one episode. I felt there was missed potential with this series, and the execution of the scripts and production could have been better. If you enjoyed Dirk Gently, some other series to consider include Vexed. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and if you like Helen Baxendale, consider the series An Unsuitable Job for a Woman, and Kidnap & Ransom.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hetty Wainthropp Investigates (TV Series 1996-1998)

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates is a series the BBC. The primary character is Hetty Wainthropp, and though her husband is retired, she decides to start a private detective business. The couple also has a lodger, Geoffrey Shawcross, who helps Hetty in her investigations. Wainthropp is portrayed by actress Patricia Routledge, while Shawcross is portrayed by actor Dominic Monaghan, who later appeared in the US TV series Lost, and the Lord of the Rings movies. The series ran from 1996 to 1998, and there are a total of 28 cases or stories that run about an hour each.
While this is not a type of series that I enjoy, my wife thought it was an enjoyable and average view. It has a lighthearted atmosphere, similar to the various Marple series. If you enjoyed Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown, and Mrs. Bradley Mysteries, and Rosemary & Thyme.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jack Irish (TV Series 2012-2018+)

Jack Irish is a television series is from Australia. The main character of the series is Jack Irish, who is a former lawyer, and now works as a private detective. The stories and cases are adapted from novels. Irish is played by actor Guy Pearce, who has been in many theatrical movies. The series has run since 2012, and so far there are 15 episodes.
Jack Irish has a very checkered past. He is acquainted with a couple of shady individuals, and they collect gather gambling winnings through some fixed horse races. They also become involved in Jack’s cases when things get a bit out of hand for him. This series was entertaining, a good production, and was a worthwhile view. It should be noted that the labeling is very confusing from the production company and distributor. The first three cases or stories are billed as individual TV movies. Then the subsequent story or case released in 2016 is billed as a TV series, and labeled as series one or season one. If you enjoyed Jack Irish, some other series to consider trying are Case Sensitive, Rebus, and Jack Taylor.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jack Taylor (TV Series 2010-2016)

Jack Taylor is a television series from Ireland. The series is set in Galway, Ireland. The main character is Jack Taylor, who is a former Garda (Irish Police) officer, and now works as a private detective. The character and stories are based on novels. Taylor is played by actor Iain Glen, who is known for his roles in Downton Abbey and Game of Thrones. The series ran from 2010 to 2016, and there are nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
The series is an above average production, and was enjoyable to watch. Taylor smokes heavily, and drinks regularly to the point of blackouts. Taylor gets severely beat up in almost every episode, which gets a bit over the top. There is some in character voice over narration, which I found to be a unique aspect of the series. If you enjoyed Jack Taylor, some other series to consider trying are Rebus, Jack Irish, Vincent, and Rebus.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (TV Series 2012-2015)

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries is a television series from Australia. The series is set in Melbourne during the roaring 1920s, and the stories and cases are adapted from novels. The main character is Miss Phryne Fisher, who is a private detective, and portrayed by Australian actress Essie Davis. The series ran from 2012 to 2015, and consists of 34 independent stories that run about an hour each.
This is a fun and entertaining series. I would recommend it especially if you are seeking something very lighthearted. There is a regular supporting cast, including Miss Fisher’s personal assistant, her butler, a police detective, and a police constable. The series contains humor, and Phryne is quite liberated for her time, which provides regular shock value to the other characters. If you enjoyed Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown and Grantchester.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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C.B. Strike (TV Series 2017-2021)

C.B. Strike is a television series is from the BBC. The series is based on three crime novels by J.K. Rowling, who wrote them under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. The three novels are The Cuckoo’s Calling, The Silkworm, and Career of Evil. The primary characters are private detective Cormoran Strike, who is both a war veteran and former police detective, and his assistant Robin Ellacott. Strike is portrayed by British actor Tom Burke, and Ellacott is portrayed by British actress Holliday Grainger.
So far I have seen The Cuckoo’s Calling, and it was a highly entertaining and well produced series. There is very good character development with both Strike, as well as Ellacott. Both Tom Burke and Hollday Grainger have appeared in minor roles in a few other series listed on this page.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Miss Scarlet and the Duke (2020+)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke is a television series from British network Alibi, and was also funded by and aired on PBS. The series is set in the Victorian era, and the primary character is Eliza Scarlet, whose recently deceased father was a private detective. Scarlet then decides to take over his business in an era where such things were frowned upon. Scarlet develops a cooperative arrangement with Detective Inspector William Wellington from Scotland Yard, who was a family acquaintance. Scarlet is portrayed by English actress Kate Phillips, and Wellington is portrayed by Scottish actor Stuart Martin. The series aired in 2020, and consisted of six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a second season.

This is one series where I will publicly eat crow. I was initially skeptical and expected this series to be beyond breezy, especially given the episode length. It was surprisingly quite entertaining, and very well produced. Both the Scarlet and Wellington characters are quite engaging, and it is amazing how much character development and plot depth is carried in each episode. If you enjoyed Miss Scarlet and The Duke, consider the series Sally Lockhart Mysteries or Grantchester. If you like actress Kate Philips, consider the series Peaky Blinders. If you like actor Stuart Martin, consider the series Babylon.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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Campion (TV Series 1989-1990)

Campion is television series from the BBC. The series is period based, and set during the early 1930s. The main character is Albert Campion, who is a private detective. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Campion is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 1989 to 1990, and there are a total of eight cases or stories, and each runs about two hours.
While I did view a few of the stories, this simply was not my preferred type of show, but seemed to be a good production. The series is lighthearted, and fans of Poirot and Marple might find this series enjoyable. If you like the actor Peter Davison, consider trying the series The Last Detective, where he portrayed a likable but somewhat bumbling police detective.

Summary updated on February 15, 2021

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Case Histories (TV Series 2011-2013)

Case Histories is a television series from the BBC. The main character is Jackson Brodie, who is a former police detective, and now works as a private detective in Edinburgh, Scotland. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Brodie is portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs, who is well known from his role in the Harry Potter films. The series ran from 2011 to 2013, and there are six independent cases or stories, and each runs from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
This was a great series, with superb scripts, acting, and cinematography. There is a nice balance of secondary characters, such Brodie leveraging a relationship with a former police counterpart, his office manager trying to get him to pay attention to the business issues, and his relationship with his daughter. If you enjoyed Case Histories, some other series to consider trying are Vera, and DCI Banks. If you like the actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the mini-series The State Within.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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• Wikipedia

Dirk Gently (TV Series 2010-2012)

Dirk Gently is a television series from ITV. The main character is Dirk Gently, who runs a private detective agency, and is assisted by Richard MacDuff. Gently is portrayed by Stephen Mangan, MacDuff is portrayed by Darren Boyd, and MacDuff’s girlfriend is portrayed by Helen Baxendale. The series ran from 2010 to 2012, and there are four episodes that run about 60 minutes.
This series is an outright comedy. The Gently character is eccentric and goofy, and believes everything is interconnected but in a random manner. The series was entertaining, has some good laughs, and even ventures into time travel in one episode. I felt there was missed potential with this series, and the execution of the scripts and production could have been better. If you enjoyed Dirk Gently, some other series to consider include Vexed. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and if you like Helen Baxendale, consider the series An Unsuitable Job for a Woman, and Kidnap & Ransom.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates (TV Series 1996-1998)

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates is a series the BBC. The primary character is Hetty Wainthropp, and though her husband is retired, she decides to start a private detective business. The couple also has a lodger, Geoffrey Shawcross, who helps Hetty in her investigations. Wainthropp is portrayed by actress Patricia Routledge, while Shawcross is portrayed by actor Dominic Monaghan, who later appeared in the US TV series Lost, and the Lord of the Rings movies. The series ran from 1996 to 1998, and there are a total of 28 cases or stories that run about an hour each.
While this is not a type of series that I enjoy, my wife thought it was an enjoyable and average view. It has a lighthearted atmosphere, similar to the various Marple series. If you enjoyed Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown, and Mrs. Bradley Mysteries, and Rosemary & Thyme.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Jack Irish (TV Series 2012-2018+)

Jack Irish is a television series is from Australia. The main character of the series is Jack Irish, who is a former lawyer, and now works as a private detective. The stories and cases are adapted from novels. Irish is played by actor Guy Pearce, who has been in many theatrical movies. The series has run since 2012, and so far there are 15 episodes.
Jack Irish has a very checkered past. He is acquainted with a couple of shady individuals, and they collect gather gambling winnings through some fixed horse races. They also become involved in Jack’s cases when things get a bit out of hand for him. This series was entertaining, a good production, and was a worthwhile view. It should be noted that the labeling is very confusing from the production company and distributor. The first three cases or stories are billed as individual TV movies. Then the subsequent story or case released in 2016 is billed as a TV series, and labeled as series one or season one. If you enjoyed Jack Irish, some other series to consider trying are Case Sensitive, Rebus, and Jack Taylor.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Jack Taylor (TV Series 2010-2016)

Jack Taylor is a television series from Ireland. The series is set in Galway, Ireland. The main character is Jack Taylor, who is a former Garda (Irish Police) officer, and now works as a private detective. The character and stories are based on novels. Taylor is played by actor Iain Glen, who is known for his roles in Downton Abbey and Game of Thrones. The series ran from 2010 to 2016, and there are nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
The series is an above average production, and was enjoyable to watch. Taylor smokes heavily, and drinks regularly to the point of blackouts. Taylor gets severely beat up in almost every episode, which gets a bit over the top. There is some in character voice over narration, which I found to be a unique aspect of the series. If you enjoyed Jack Taylor, some other series to consider trying are Rebus, Jack Irish, Vincent, and Rebus.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (TV Series 2012-2015)

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries is a television series from Australia. The series is set in Melbourne during the roaring 1920s, and the stories and cases are adapted from novels. The main character is Miss Phryne Fisher, who is a private detective, and portrayed by Australian actress Essie Davis. The series ran from 2012 to 2015, and consists of 34 independent stories that run about an hour each.
This is a fun and entertaining series. I would recommend it especially if you are seeking something very lighthearted. There is a regular supporting cast, including Miss Fisher’s personal assistant, her butler, a police detective, and a police constable. The series contains humor, and Phryne is quite liberated for her time, which provides regular shock value to the other characters. If you enjoyed Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown and Grantchester.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

C.B. Strike (TV Series 2017-2021)

C.B. Strike is a television series is from the BBC. The series is based on three crime novels by J.K. Rowling, who wrote them under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. The three novels are The Cuckoo’s Calling, The Silkworm, and Career of Evil. The primary characters are private detective Cormoran Strike, who is both a war veteran and former police detective, and his assistant Robin Ellacott. Strike is portrayed by British actor Tom Burke, and Ellacott is portrayed by British actress Holliday Grainger.
So far I have seen The Cuckoo’s Calling, and it was a highly entertaining and well produced series. There is very good character development with both Strike, as well as Ellacott. Both Tom Burke and Hollday Grainger have appeared in minor roles in a few other series listed on this page.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke (2020+)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke is a television series from British network Alibi, and was also funded by and aired on PBS. The series is set in the Victorian era, and the primary character is Eliza Scarlet, whose recently deceased father was a private detective. Scarlet then decides to take over his business in an era where such things were frowned upon. Scarlet develops a cooperative arrangement with Detective Inspector William Wellington from Scotland Yard, who was a family acquaintance. Scarlet is portrayed by English actress Kate Phillips, and Wellington is portrayed by Scottish actor Stuart Martin. The series aired in 2020, and consisted of six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a second season.

This is one series where I will publicly eat crow. I was initially skeptical and expected this series to be beyond breezy, especially given the episode length. It was surprisingly quite entertaining, and very well produced. Both the Scarlet and Wellington characters are quite engaging, and it is amazing how much character development and plot depth is carried in each episode. If you enjoyed Miss Scarlet and The Duke, consider the series Sally Lockhart Mysteries or Grantchester. If you like actress Kate Philips, consider the series Peaky Blinders. If you like actor Stuart Martin, consider the series Babylon.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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The Assets (TV Mini-Series 2014)

The Assets is a television mini-series from American television network ABC. While it was produced for for American television, I am including it as almost the entire cast is British, who are portraying Americans. The mini-series is set in 1980s and early 1990s, and dramatizes the story of real life double agent and traitor Aldrich Ames. The two CIA agents that investigated him are portrayed by actresses Jodie Whittaker and Harriet Walter, and Ames is portrayed by actor Paul Rhys. The mini-series ran in 2014, and runs about six hours. This mini-series had such poor ratings for the first few episodes, that the subsequent episodes aired on weekends during the daytime. If you are a fan of British television, this should not detract you, and should do the opposite. I found this to be a well produced and thoughtful espionage drama, and it has an atmosphere similar to most British dramas. Jodie Whittaker does a superb job portraying the CIA offiicer that tenaciously investigates Ames. The mini-series would probably have done much better being marketed by and airing on PBS. I enjoyed it enough that I felt compelled to include it in this British list. If you enjoyed The Assets, some other series to consider include The Game, The Bletchley Circle, and Foyle’s War. If you like the actress Jodie Whittaker, consider the series Broadchurch. Harriet Walter guest stars in specific episodes of numerous other series.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Bodyguard (TV Series 2018)

Bodyguard is a television series from ITV. The primary characters are police sergeant David Budd, and Home Secretary and Minister of Parliament (MP) Julia Montague. The story begins with Budd being assigned to lead the protection detail for Montague. Budd is portrayed by actor Richard Madden, and Montague is portrayed by actress Keely Hawes. The series aired in 2018, and is spread across six episodes that run about an hour each.
Bodyguard is a highly entertaining over the top thrill ride, which contains a combination of political intrigue, action, multiple investigations, and plot twists. The Budd character came off as robotic at the onset, but the storyline develops to help explain that. If you enjoyed Bodyguard, some other series to consider include Line of Duty, Collateral, and Secret State. If you like actress Keely Hawes, consider the series MI5/Spooks, Line of Duty, or the Missing.

Summary updated on January 30, 2021

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Deep State (TV Series 2017+)

Deep State is a television series from the Epix channel. The primary character is Max Easton, who is an ex MI6 agent, who is forced to come out of retirement for a situation that spans England, France, Lebanon, Iran, and the United States. Easton is portrayed by British actor Mark Strong. The series aired in 2017, and is spread across eight episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a second series.
Though I like the versatile actor Mark Strong, he could not rescue this disappointed espionage series. There were simply too many problems with this series, including a bloated plot, numerous plot holes, numerous technology and espionage tradecraft mistakes, poorly written dialogue, bad acting with some minor actors, some hysterically bad fake American accents, etc. If you enjoyed Deep State, some other series to consider include The Night Manager and Our Kind of Traitor.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Game (TV Series 2014)

The Game is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is set in London during the early 1970s. The primary character is Joe Lambe, who is a young and upcoming agent with MI5, the British domestic security service. Lambe is portrayed by actor Tom Hughes, and the mini-series also features actor Shaun Dooley. The mini-series ran in 2014, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each.
This is an entertaining series, especially if you are looking for something retro and espionage related. It shows various old school spy techniques, including tiny cameras, tape recorders, microfilm, drop methods, etc. While a few character developments were over the top, it was still a good old fashioned spy yarn. If you enjoyed The Game, some other series to consider include The Bletchley Circle and Foyle’s War. If you like the actor Tom Hughes, consider the movie The Lady Vanishes. If you like the actor Shaun Dooley, consider the series Cuffs or Broadchurch, and he guest stars in specific episodes of numerous other series.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Harriet’s Army (TV Movie (2014)

Harriet’s Army is a television movie from the BBC, and is intended for family viewing. The movie begins at the outset of World War I in a seaside village. The main character is a teenage girl named Harriet Grange, who is portrayed by Ciara Baxendale. Harriet is ejected from the Scouts & Guides, and decides to form and lead her own group of kids to hunt for spies. Harriet and her “army” determine that a spy is at work in the village, and struggle to get the adults to believe them. The movie aired in 2014, and runs about 90 minutes.
This was a surprisingly fun and entertaining movie. While the content is obviously very light as it is scripted for families, the storyline was creative and well thought out. If I were to draw a comparison of the atmosphere and pace, it would be roughly similar to Foyle’s War. I’ve not yet encountered or viewed other family oriented mysteries, so at this point in time, I cannot offer any other suggested movies or series to consider.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Informer (TV Mini-Series 2018)

The Informer is a television mini-series from the BBC. The story centers on Detective Sergeant (DS) Gabe Waters, who is a counter terrorism officer who recruits a young man. Waters is portrayed by actor Paddy Considine. The mini-series aired in 2018, and runs about six hours.
This was an entertaining series that provides depth the obvious topic of civil rights. If you like The Informer, consider the series Collateral. If you like the actor Paddy Considine, consider the series The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, or Red Riding.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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London Spy (TV Mini-Series 2015)

London Spy is a television mini-series from the BBC. The primary character is Danny, who discovers that his deceased lover worked for British intelligence. Danny is portrayed by actor Ben Whishaw, widely know for portraying Q in the recent 007 movies. The mini-series aired in 2015, and runs about five hours.
This is one series that I did not enjoy. The “secret” being shrouded in espionage of various countries was ridiculous, and the plot was filled with gaps and holes.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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MI-5 / Spooks (TV Series 2002-2011)

MI-5 is a television series from the BBC. The series follows a team from MI-5, which is the British domestic security service. The series is known as Spooks in the UK and as MI-5 in the US. The series ran from 2002 to 2011, and there are a total of 86 stories that run about an hour each. The one character that lasts throughout the series is Harry Pearce, who is portrayed by actor Peter Firth. There was also a subsequent 2015 movie called simply MI-5, which featured the same character Harry Pearce, portrayed by actor Peter Firth.
While I did view and enjoy the first few series, it eventually got a bit over the top for my taste (i.e. saving the world in every episode), so I eventually stopped viewing it. I did find the 2015 movie entertaining, but it was very over the top, like a Hollywood movie. If you enjoyed Spooks / MI5, some other series to consider trying are The Game, and the State Within.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Night Manager (TV Mini-Series 2016)

The Night Manager is a television mini-series from the BBC, which aired on AMC in the US. The primary character is Jonathan Pine, who is the night manager at a hotel. Pine is recruited by the British MI6 intelligence service to infiltrate a dirty arms dealer. The mini-series aired in 2016, and runs about six hours.
This was an above average top espionage yarn. It is over the top, with certain elements being similar to 007 movies. Whether intended or not, Hugh Laurie’s character comes across a cartoon character with plastic dialogue. If you enjoyed The Night Manager, consider trying the series Our Kind of Traitor. If you like the actor Tom Hiddleston, consider trying the series Wallander, where he has a minor role. If you like the actress Olivia Colman, consider the series Broadchurch.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Our Kind of Traitor (Theatrical Movie 2016)

Our Kind of Traitor is a theatrical movie from the UK. The movie is based on a novel of the same name from John le Carré. The primary character is an academic who is on holiday. He is approached by a someone from Russian mafia about turning over a USB stick to British MI6 intelligence service. The academic is portrayed by Ewan McGregor, and the Russian portrayed by Stellan Skarsgård. The movie was released in 2016, and runs 107 minutes.
With the British cast and billing, I had high expectations for this movie, but was every disappointed. This was a very breezy espionage yarn. There was little depth, and the plot was predictable. There were also some glaring holes, including major tradecraft errors, which would be expected from a Hollywood produced movie. If you enjoyed Our Kind of Traitor, some other series to consider include The Night Manager, The Game, Restless, and the 39 Steps. If you like the actor Stellan Skarsgård, consider the series River.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Campion (TV Series 1989-1990)

Campion is television series from the BBC. The series is period based, and set during the early 1930s. The main character is Albert Campion, who is a private detective. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Campion is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 1989 to 1990, and there are a total of eight cases or stories, and each runs about two hours.
While I did view a few of the stories, this simply was not my preferred type of show, but seemed to be a good production. The series is lighthearted, and fans of Poirot and Marple might find this series enjoyable. If you like the actor Peter Davison, consider trying the series The Last Detective, where he portrayed a likable but somewhat bumbling police detective.

Summary updated on February 15, 2021

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Case Histories (TV Series 2011-2013)

Case Histories is a television series from the BBC. The main character is Jackson Brodie, who is a former police detective, and now works as a private detective in Edinburgh, Scotland. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Brodie is portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs, who is well known from his role in the Harry Potter films. The series ran from 2011 to 2013, and there are six independent cases or stories, and each runs from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
This was a great series, with superb scripts, acting, and cinematography. There is a nice balance of secondary characters, such Brodie leveraging a relationship with a former police counterpart, his office manager trying to get him to pay attention to the business issues, and his relationship with his daughter. If you enjoyed Case Histories, some other series to consider trying are Vera, and DCI Banks. If you like the actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the mini-series The State Within.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dirk Gently (TV Series 2010-2012)

Dirk Gently is a television series from ITV. The main character is Dirk Gently, who runs a private detective agency, and is assisted by Richard MacDuff. Gently is portrayed by Stephen Mangan, MacDuff is portrayed by Darren Boyd, and MacDuff’s girlfriend is portrayed by Helen Baxendale. The series ran from 2010 to 2012, and there are four episodes that run about 60 minutes.
This series is an outright comedy. The Gently character is eccentric and goofy, and believes everything is interconnected but in a random manner. The series was entertaining, has some good laughs, and even ventures into time travel in one episode. I felt there was missed potential with this series, and the execution of the scripts and production could have been better. If you enjoyed Dirk Gently, some other series to consider include Vexed. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and if you like Helen Baxendale, consider the series An Unsuitable Job for a Woman, and Kidnap & Ransom.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hetty Wainthropp Investigates (TV Series 1996-1998)

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates is a series the BBC. The primary character is Hetty Wainthropp, and though her husband is retired, she decides to start a private detective business. The couple also has a lodger, Geoffrey Shawcross, who helps Hetty in her investigations. Wainthropp is portrayed by actress Patricia Routledge, while Shawcross is portrayed by actor Dominic Monaghan, who later appeared in the US TV series Lost, and the Lord of the Rings movies. The series ran from 1996 to 1998, and there are a total of 28 cases or stories that run about an hour each.
While this is not a type of series that I enjoy, my wife thought it was an enjoyable and average view. It has a lighthearted atmosphere, similar to the various Marple series. If you enjoyed Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown, and Mrs. Bradley Mysteries, and Rosemary & Thyme.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jack Irish (TV Series 2012-2018+)

Jack Irish is a television series is from Australia. The main character of the series is Jack Irish, who is a former lawyer, and now works as a private detective. The stories and cases are adapted from novels. Irish is played by actor Guy Pearce, who has been in many theatrical movies. The series has run since 2012, and so far there are 15 episodes.
Jack Irish has a very checkered past. He is acquainted with a couple of shady individuals, and they collect gather gambling winnings through some fixed horse races. They also become involved in Jack’s cases when things get a bit out of hand for him. This series was entertaining, a good production, and was a worthwhile view. It should be noted that the labeling is very confusing from the production company and distributor. The first three cases or stories are billed as individual TV movies. Then the subsequent story or case released in 2016 is billed as a TV series, and labeled as series one or season one. If you enjoyed Jack Irish, some other series to consider trying are Case Sensitive, Rebus, and Jack Taylor.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jack Taylor (TV Series 2010-2016)

Jack Taylor is a television series from Ireland. The series is set in Galway, Ireland. The main character is Jack Taylor, who is a former Garda (Irish Police) officer, and now works as a private detective. The character and stories are based on novels. Taylor is played by actor Iain Glen, who is known for his roles in Downton Abbey and Game of Thrones. The series ran from 2010 to 2016, and there are nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
The series is an above average production, and was enjoyable to watch. Taylor smokes heavily, and drinks regularly to the point of blackouts. Taylor gets severely beat up in almost every episode, which gets a bit over the top. There is some in character voice over narration, which I found to be a unique aspect of the series. If you enjoyed Jack Taylor, some other series to consider trying are Rebus, Jack Irish, Vincent, and Rebus.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (TV Series 2012-2015)

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries is a television series from Australia. The series is set in Melbourne during the roaring 1920s, and the stories and cases are adapted from novels. The main character is Miss Phryne Fisher, who is a private detective, and portrayed by Australian actress Essie Davis. The series ran from 2012 to 2015, and consists of 34 independent stories that run about an hour each.
This is a fun and entertaining series. I would recommend it especially if you are seeking something very lighthearted. There is a regular supporting cast, including Miss Fisher’s personal assistant, her butler, a police detective, and a police constable. The series contains humor, and Phryne is quite liberated for her time, which provides regular shock value to the other characters. If you enjoyed Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown and Grantchester.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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C.B. Strike (TV Series 2017-2021)

C.B. Strike is a television series is from the BBC. The series is based on three crime novels by J.K. Rowling, who wrote them under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. The three novels are The Cuckoo’s Calling, The Silkworm, and Career of Evil. The primary characters are private detective Cormoran Strike, who is both a war veteran and former police detective, and his assistant Robin Ellacott. Strike is portrayed by British actor Tom Burke, and Ellacott is portrayed by British actress Holliday Grainger.
So far I have seen The Cuckoo’s Calling, and it was a highly entertaining and well produced series. There is very good character development with both Strike, as well as Ellacott. Both Tom Burke and Hollday Grainger have appeared in minor roles in a few other series listed on this page.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Miss Scarlet and the Duke (2020+)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke is a television series from British network Alibi, and was also funded by and aired on PBS. The series is set in the Victorian era, and the primary character is Eliza Scarlet, whose recently deceased father was a private detective. Scarlet then decides to take over his business in an era where such things were frowned upon. Scarlet develops a cooperative arrangement with Detective Inspector William Wellington from Scotland Yard, who was a family acquaintance. Scarlet is portrayed by English actress Kate Phillips, and Wellington is portrayed by Scottish actor Stuart Martin. The series aired in 2020, and consisted of six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a second season.

This is one series where I will publicly eat crow. I was initially skeptical and expected this series to be beyond breezy, especially given the episode length. It was surprisingly quite entertaining, and very well produced. Both the Scarlet and Wellington characters are quite engaging, and it is amazing how much character development and plot depth is carried in each episode. If you enjoyed Miss Scarlet and The Duke, consider the series Sally Lockhart Mysteries or Grantchester. If you like actress Kate Philips, consider the series Peaky Blinders. If you like actor Stuart Martin, consider the series Babylon.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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Campion (TV Series 1989-1990)

Campion is television series from the BBC. The series is period based, and set during the early 1930s. The main character is Albert Campion, who is a private detective. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Campion is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 1989 to 1990, and there are a total of eight cases or stories, and each runs about two hours.
While I did view a few of the stories, this simply was not my preferred type of show, but seemed to be a good production. The series is lighthearted, and fans of Poirot and Marple might find this series enjoyable. If you like the actor Peter Davison, consider trying the series The Last Detective, where he portrayed a likable but somewhat bumbling police detective.

Summary updated on February 15, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Case Histories (TV Series 2011-2013)

Case Histories is a television series from the BBC. The main character is Jackson Brodie, who is a former police detective, and now works as a private detective in Edinburgh, Scotland. The stories and cases are all adapted from novels. Brodie is portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs, who is well known from his role in the Harry Potter films. The series ran from 2011 to 2013, and there are six independent cases or stories, and each runs from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
This was a great series, with superb scripts, acting, and cinematography. There is a nice balance of secondary characters, such Brodie leveraging a relationship with a former police counterpart, his office manager trying to get him to pay attention to the business issues, and his relationship with his daughter. If you enjoyed Case Histories, some other series to consider trying are Vera, and DCI Banks. If you like the actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the mini-series The State Within.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Dirk Gently (TV Series 2010-2012)

Dirk Gently is a television series from ITV. The main character is Dirk Gently, who runs a private detective agency, and is assisted by Richard MacDuff. Gently is portrayed by Stephen Mangan, MacDuff is portrayed by Darren Boyd, and MacDuff’s girlfriend is portrayed by Helen Baxendale. The series ran from 2010 to 2012, and there are four episodes that run about 60 minutes.
This series is an outright comedy. The Gently character is eccentric and goofy, and believes everything is interconnected but in a random manner. The series was entertaining, has some good laughs, and even ventures into time travel in one episode. I felt there was missed potential with this series, and the execution of the scripts and production could have been better. If you enjoyed Dirk Gently, some other series to consider include Vexed. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and if you like Helen Baxendale, consider the series An Unsuitable Job for a Woman, and Kidnap & Ransom.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates (TV Series 1996-1998)

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates is a series the BBC. The primary character is Hetty Wainthropp, and though her husband is retired, she decides to start a private detective business. The couple also has a lodger, Geoffrey Shawcross, who helps Hetty in her investigations. Wainthropp is portrayed by actress Patricia Routledge, while Shawcross is portrayed by actor Dominic Monaghan, who later appeared in the US TV series Lost, and the Lord of the Rings movies. The series ran from 1996 to 1998, and there are a total of 28 cases or stories that run about an hour each.
While this is not a type of series that I enjoy, my wife thought it was an enjoyable and average view. It has a lighthearted atmosphere, similar to the various Marple series. If you enjoyed Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown, and Mrs. Bradley Mysteries, and Rosemary & Thyme.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Jack Irish (TV Series 2012-2018+)

Jack Irish is a television series is from Australia. The main character of the series is Jack Irish, who is a former lawyer, and now works as a private detective. The stories and cases are adapted from novels. Irish is played by actor Guy Pearce, who has been in many theatrical movies. The series has run since 2012, and so far there are 15 episodes.
Jack Irish has a very checkered past. He is acquainted with a couple of shady individuals, and they collect gather gambling winnings through some fixed horse races. They also become involved in Jack’s cases when things get a bit out of hand for him. This series was entertaining, a good production, and was a worthwhile view. It should be noted that the labeling is very confusing from the production company and distributor. The first three cases or stories are billed as individual TV movies. Then the subsequent story or case released in 2016 is billed as a TV series, and labeled as series one or season one. If you enjoyed Jack Irish, some other series to consider trying are Case Sensitive, Rebus, and Jack Taylor.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Jack Taylor (TV Series 2010-2016)

Jack Taylor is a television series from Ireland. The series is set in Galway, Ireland. The main character is Jack Taylor, who is a former Garda (Irish Police) officer, and now works as a private detective. The character and stories are based on novels. Taylor is played by actor Iain Glen, who is known for his roles in Downton Abbey and Game of Thrones. The series ran from 2010 to 2016, and there are nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
The series is an above average production, and was enjoyable to watch. Taylor smokes heavily, and drinks regularly to the point of blackouts. Taylor gets severely beat up in almost every episode, which gets a bit over the top. There is some in character voice over narration, which I found to be a unique aspect of the series. If you enjoyed Jack Taylor, some other series to consider trying are Rebus, Jack Irish, Vincent, and Rebus.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (TV Series 2012-2015)

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries is a television series from Australia. The series is set in Melbourne during the roaring 1920s, and the stories and cases are adapted from novels. The main character is Miss Phryne Fisher, who is a private detective, and portrayed by Australian actress Essie Davis. The series ran from 2012 to 2015, and consists of 34 independent stories that run about an hour each.
This is a fun and entertaining series. I would recommend it especially if you are seeking something very lighthearted. There is a regular supporting cast, including Miss Fisher’s personal assistant, her butler, a police detective, and a police constable. The series contains humor, and Phryne is quite liberated for her time, which provides regular shock value to the other characters. If you enjoyed Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, some other series to consider trying are Father Brown and Grantchester.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

C.B. Strike (TV Series 2017-2021)

C.B. Strike is a television series is from the BBC. The series is based on three crime novels by J.K. Rowling, who wrote them under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. The three novels are The Cuckoo’s Calling, The Silkworm, and Career of Evil. The primary characters are private detective Cormoran Strike, who is both a war veteran and former police detective, and his assistant Robin Ellacott. Strike is portrayed by British actor Tom Burke, and Ellacott is portrayed by British actress Holliday Grainger.
So far I have seen The Cuckoo’s Calling, and it was a highly entertaining and well produced series. There is very good character development with both Strike, as well as Ellacott. Both Tom Burke and Hollday Grainger have appeared in minor roles in a few other series listed on this page.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke (2020+)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke is a television series from British network Alibi, and was also funded by and aired on PBS. The series is set in the Victorian era, and the primary character is Eliza Scarlet, whose recently deceased father was a private detective. Scarlet then decides to take over his business in an era where such things were frowned upon. Scarlet develops a cooperative arrangement with Detective Inspector William Wellington from Scotland Yard, who was a family acquaintance. Scarlet is portrayed by English actress Kate Phillips, and Wellington is portrayed by Scottish actor Stuart Martin. The series aired in 2020, and consisted of six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a second season.

This is one series where I will publicly eat crow. I was initially skeptical and expected this series to be beyond breezy, especially given the episode length. It was surprisingly quite entertaining, and very well produced. Both the Scarlet and Wellington characters are quite engaging, and it is amazing how much character development and plot depth is carried in each episode. If you enjoyed Miss Scarlet and The Duke, consider the series Sally Lockhart Mysteries or Grantchester. If you like actress Kate Philips, consider the series Peaky Blinders. If you like actor Stuart Martin, consider the series Babylon.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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Above Suspicion (TV Series 2009-2012)

Above Suspicion is a television series from ITV. The series was written by Lynda La Plante, the same writer as Prime Suspect, and Trial & Retribution. The two primary characters are Detective Constable (DC) Anna Travis, and her superior, Detective Chief Investigator (DCI) James Langton. Travis is portrayed by actress Kelly Reilly, and Langton is portrayed by actor Ciarán Hinds. The series ran from 2009 to 2012, and there are a total of four independent stories or cases, each roughly 3 hours in length.
This is a solid police procedural series, and was an enjoyable view. There is good character development across the series. For example, Travis is regularly trying to prove herself, and Langton is regularly correcting her to the point where she thinks he is holding her career back. If you enjoyed Above Suspicion, some other series to consider include DCI Banks, Prime Suspect, and Trial & Retribution.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Bancroft (TV Series 2017-2020)

Bancroft is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Elizabeth Bancroft, who is portrayed by actress Sarah Parish. The series ran from 2017 to 2020, and there are eight one hour episodes. This was an entertaining and unique series, and without any spoilers, Bancroft harbors a dark secret. It received mixed reviews as some plot aspects are over the top, and some didn’t realize that the ending was open-ended, as it was renewed for a second series. If you enjoyed Bancroft, some other series to consider include Line of Duty.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Blue Murder (TV Series 2003-2009)

Blue Murder is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Janine Lewis, who is a divorced mother of four children. She leads a team of detectives that solve murders in Manchester, England. Lewis is portrayed by actress Caroline Quentin. The series ran from 2003 to 2009, and there are a total of 19 individual stories or cases that run about an hour each.
This is a good and entertaining series. It ventures mildly into her personal life in an appropriate manner, such as issues with balancing her family and career. There some subtle humor, including a romantic attraction with a detective that is on her team. If you enjoyed Blue Murder, some other series to consider are A Touch of Frost, New Tricks, and Scott & Bailey. If you like the actress Caroline Quentin, consider the series Jonathan Creek. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Broadchurch (TV Series (2015-2017)

Broadchurch is a television series from ITV. The two primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Alec Hardy and Detective Sergeant (DS) Ellie Miller. Hardy is portrayed by actor David Tennant, and Miller is portrayed by Olivia Colman. The first series aired in 2013, and is about seven hours in length. The first series is a single case or story, where they lead a team that investigates the murder of a young boy in a coastal community. The second series aired in 2015, and continues the story by introducing new facts. And a third series aired in 2017.
The first series was an outstanding police procedural, with a superb script, cast, acting, and cinematography. Without revealing spoilers, the second series continues the same story, though the first series ended with some form of closure. My preference would have been for them to start a new primary storyline. If you enjoyed Broadchurch, some other series to consider include Happy Valley, and Mayday. If you like David Tennant, consider trying The Politician’s Husband, and The Escape Artist. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Brokenwood Mysteries (TV Series 2014-2019+)

The Brokenwood Mysteries is a television series from New Zealand. The two primary characters are Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd and Detective Sergeant Kristin Sims, who investigate murders in a small village in New Zealand. The series has aired since 2014, and so far there are 24 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a highly entertaining and light series, and several reviews accurately describe it as New Zealand’s answer to Midsomer Murders. There is an abundance of amusing dry wit and humor in each episode. It fun to follow detective Shepherd driving in his old car, his affection for country music, and his quirkiness with talking to the bodies of the recently murdered. If you enjoyed the Brokenwood Mysteries, consider trying Midsomer Murders, or the Last Detective.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Case Sensitive (TV Series 2011-2012)

Case Sensitive is a television series from ITV. The characters and stories are based on some novels. The two primary characters are Detective Sergeant (DS) Charlie Zailer and Detective Constable (DC) Simon Waterhouse, who investigate murders together. Zailer is portrayed by Olivia Williams, and Waterhouse is portrayed by Darren Boyd. The series ran from 2011 to 2012, and there are two independent stories or cases than run about 2 hours each. This was a solid and entertaining police procedural, and I was disappointed that it had such a short run. The acting was good, and there was chemistry between both characters. It is one that I plan to watch again in the future. If you enjoyed Case Sensitive, some other series to consider include Vera, Shetland, Hinterland, and Inspector Lynley Mysteries. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Dirk Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Collateral (TV Series 2017)

Collateral is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Kip Glaspie, who is portrayed by British actress Carey Mulligan. The series begins with Glaspie investigating the murder of a pizza delivery man. The series ran in 2017, and runs about four hours.
This was an entertaining series, and I found the Glaspie character to be intriguing and resolute, and I was immensely disappointed that the series was not renewed. If you are an avid viewer of British television, the rest of the cast includes a number of familiar faces. If you enjoyed Collateral, some other series to consider include Unforgotten and Marcella.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Commander (TV Series 2003-2008)

The Commander is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Commander Clare Blake, who leads a team of detectives investigating murder in London. Commander Blake is portrayed by actress Amanda Burton. The series ran from 2003 to 2008, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases than run up to 180 minutes each.
It has been a while since viewing, but I recall this this being an entertaining series. Without giving away any spoilers, the Blake character bears some rough similarities to the Tennison character in Prime Suspect. If you enjoyed The Commander, some others series to consider are Prime Suspect, and Babylon. If you like the actress Amanda Burton, consider trying the series Silent Witness, or Helen West. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dalziel & Pascoe (TV Series 1996-2007)

Dalziel & Pascoe is a television series from the BBC. The characters originate from some novels. The primary characters are Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel and Detective Sergeant Peter Pascoe, who investigate murders together in the Yorkshire area. Dalziel is portrayed by actor Warren Clarke, and Pascoe is portrayed by actor Colin Buchanan. The series ran from 1996 to 2007, and there are a total of 46 independent stories or cases that run up to 120 minutes each. This is a solid police procedural, and one that I would recommend. Dalziel is politically incorrect and rough around the edges, but Pascoe sometimes helps smooth out some of those aspects. There is some subtle humor with the quirkiness of Dalziel. If you enjoyed Dalziel & Pascoe, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, Cracker, Rebus, and George Gently. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dark Heart (TV Series 2018)

Dark Heart is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Will Wagstaffe, who is portrayed by actor Tom Riley. The series ran in 2018, and there are three independent stories that run about two hours each. I have not yet seen the series. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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DCI Banks (TV Series 2010-2016)

DCI Banks is a television series from ITV. The character and stories are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Alan Banks, who leads a team of detectives solving murders in Yorkshire. Banks is portrayed by actor Stephen Tompkinson. Two other detective characters are portrayed by actresses Andrea Lowe and Caroline Catz. The series ran form 2010 to 2016, and 16 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is an great and entertaining police procedural, and one that I have watched again already. If you enjoyed DCI Banks, some other series to consider include Vera, Hinterland, and Shetland. If you like Caroline Catz, consider the series Murder in Suburbia. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Death in Paradise (TV Series 2011-2021)

Death in Paradise is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is a British police detective, who now serves in the British islands. There have been three different actors and actresses in the role of the primary character. The series has run since 2011, and so far, there are 76 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. While I did view a few of the stories from the first season, the series simply is not my preference, and the island setting did not interest me. The series is light and quirky, so if you are looking for a series with some humor, you might give this one a try. If you enjoyed Death in Paradise, consider try the series The Last Detective, or Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Endeavour (TV Series 2012-2020+)

Endeavour is a television series from ITV. The series is a prequel of Inspector Morse, while Inspector Lewis is a sequel. The primary character is obviously Endeavour Morse, and it traces his start as a Detective Constable (DC). Morse is portrayed by actor Shaun Evans. The series has run since 2012, and so far, there are 30 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a great police procedural, and some have even argued it is better than original. The acting and cinematography are superb, and accompanied with great music from Barrington Pheloug. This prequel is a great companion to the Inspector Morse franchise, and I am a fan of all three series. It should be noted that the daughter of John Thaw is part of the cast. If you enjoyed Endeavour, some other series to consider are George Gently, and Foyle’s War. If you enjoy actor Shaun Evans, consider the mini-series The Take.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Falcón (TV Series 2012)

Falcón is a television series from Sky Atlantic. The primary character is Chief Inspector Javier Falcón, who is a police detective solving murder in Seville, Spain. Falcón is portrayed by actor Maron Csokas, who has appeared in numerous theatrical films, including the Lord of the Rings. Actress Emilia Fox, from the Silent Witness series, portrays the separated wife of Falcón. There was only one series, which ran in 2012, and there are two independent stories or cases that run about two hours each. This was entertaining police procedural and worth a view, especially if you are looking for an English language series set in a country outside of the UK. If you enjoyed Falcón, another series to consider is Zen, which is set in Italy.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Fall (TV Series 2013-2016)

The Fall is a television series from the BBC. The primary character Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, who is sent from London to Belfast, Northern Ireland, in order to help push along a stalled murder investigation. She quickly determines that there is a serial killer. Gibson is portrayed by actress Gillian Anderson. It is one singular case, and spans two series. The first series aired in 2013 and runs about five hours, and the second series aired in 2014 and runs about six hours. There is a third series aired in 2016 and also runs about six hours. The first series was an entertaining thriller and police procedural. I am typically not a fan of series where the same storyline spans multiple series. I would have preferred that they gave closure in the first series, and began an entirely different case in the second series. But given that, The Fall was still an entertaining view. If you enjoyed The Fall, some other series to consider include Happy Valley, Line of Duty, Touching Evil, and Prey.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Foyle's War (TV Series 2002-2015)

Foyle’s War is a television series from ITV. The series was created by Anthony Horowitz, who was involved with Poirot, Midsomer Murders, Murder in Mind, Collision, and Injustice. The primary character is Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle. The series starts out during World War II, where Foyle investigates crime and murder in the coastal town of Hastings. The series later moves into post war London, where Foyle joins MI-5, the British domestic security service. Foyle is portrayed by actor Michael Kitchen. The series ran from 2002 to 2015, and there are 28 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a outstanding and entertaining series, with superb acting and cinematography. Some of the crimes during war period are quite interesting, and they made an interesting transition to his post-war role with MI5. If you enjoyed Foyle’s War, some other series to consider include Endeavour, The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, The Bletchley Circle, and The Game.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector George Gently (TV Series 2007-2017)

Inspector George Gently series is a television series from the BBC. The series is set during the 1960s, and is based on some characters from some novels. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) George Gently and Detective Sergeant (DS) John Bacchus, who investigate murders in Northumberland. The series ran from 2007 to 2017, and there are 25 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a great retro police procedural, and a favorite of mine. The cinematography and acting are great, and they bring the characters to life and are perfect in the roles. It is fun to watch the antics of Bacchus, trying to be “cool” during the 1960s, and how Gently observes and sometimes laughs. If you enjoyed George Gently, some other series to consider include Endeavour, A Touch of Frost, and Dalziel & Pascoe.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Giri / Haji (TV Series 2019)

Giri / Haji is a television series from the BBC. The title is Japanese and translates as “Duty/Shame.” The series is set in London and Japan, with dialogue both in English and Japanese. The story concerns a detective who travels from Tokyo to London searching for his brother, who was involved with organized crime and previously thought to have been dead. In London he is assisted by a Detective Constable, who is portrayed Kelly Macdonald. The series aired in 2019, and there are 8 episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed. This was an entertaining series, especially with being set in two countries. If you enjoy the Kelly Macdonald, consider the series State of Play and The Victim.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Guilty (TV Mini-Series 2013)

The Guilty is television mini-series from ITV. The story concerns the disappearnce of a young boy, who is found dead five years later. The investigation is lead by Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Maggie Brand, who is portrayed by actress Tamsin Greig. The cast also includes actor Darren Boyd. The mini-series was released in 2013, and runs about three hours.
This was an entertaining procedural with good plot development and rotation through various suspects, and an unexpected ending. If you enjoyed The Guilty, some other series to consider include Broadchurch. If you like the actor Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and Dirk Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hidden (TV Series 2018)

Hidden is a television series from Welsh network S4C. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Cadi John, who is portrayed by actress Sian Reese-Williams. The series contains dialogue is both Welsh and English. The series ran in 2018, and is spread across eight one hour episodes. I plan on watching the series in the near future.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hinterland (TV Series 2013-2016)

Hinterland is a television series from BBC Wales. It follows a team of police detectives solving murders in a rural part of Wales. There is a very minor amount of dialogue that is in Welsh, which is really only several sentences in each episode, and those are subtitled. They simultaneously filmed an English dialogue version, and a Welsh dialogue version for broadcast in Wales. The series ran from 2013 to 2016, and there are 26 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a superb series, with great casting and cinematography. It is more edgy than Vera, but a similar rural atmosphere. If you enjoyed Hinterland, some other series to consider are Broadchurch, and Suspects.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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I, Anna (Theatrical Movie 2012)

I, Anna is a theatrical film that was released in the UK. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Bernie Reid, who is a police detective in London. It a noir type film, and Reid romantically falls for a woman who is a possible suspect in a murder investigation. Reid is portrayed by actor Gabriel Byrne. The movie was released in 2012, and runs about 90 minutes. The movie was somewhat dry, and was an average view. If you enjoyed I, Anna, some other series or movies to consider include Dead Gorgeous. If you like the actor Gabriel Byrne, consider trying Secret State, or Quirke. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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In the Dark (TV Series 2017)

In the Dark is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Helen Weeks, who is portrayed by actress MyAnna Buring. Another minor character, Detective Inspector (DI) Adam Perrin is portrayed by actor David Leon from the series Vera. The series ran in 2017, and there are two separate stories or cases that run about two hours each. I have yet to see the series, but plan to watch it.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Alleyn Mysteries (TV Series 1990-1994)

Inspector Alleyn Mysteries is a television series from the BBC. The series is set during the late 1930s, and based on novels. The primary character Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Roderick Alleyn, who investigates murders. Alleyn is portrayed by actor Patrick Malahide, who has guest starred in a number of crime and mystery series, and also known from Game of Thrones. The series ran from 1990 to 1994, and there are a total of nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. I only watched the first couple of episodes. The series was an average production, and was a bit dry and slow for my taste.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Lewis (TV Series 2006-2015)

Inspector Lewis is a television series from ITV. The series is a sequel to Inspector Morse, while Endeavour is a prequel. The primary characters are Detective Inspector Robbie Lewis and Detective Sergeant James Hathaway. Lewis portrayed by actor Kevin Whately, who reprised his role from Morse, and Hathaway is portrayed by actor Laurence Fox, who is a first cousin of actress Emilia Fox from the Silent Witness series. The series ran from 2006 to 2015, and there are 33 stories that run over 90 minutes each.
This is a superbly enjoyable series, and I love the educational setting in Oxford. There is significant character development over the course of this series, especially with the Hathaway character. My only criticism is that some of the plots have been trivial and used before in other series, but this may be irrelevant to more casual viewers of British television. If you enjoy Inspector Lewis, some other series to consider include Vera, DCI Banks, A Touch of Frost, and George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Lynley Mysteries (TV Series 2001-2007)

Inspector Lynley Mysteries is a television series from the BBC. The characters are based on some novels. The primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Thomas Lynley and Detective Sergeant (DS) Barbara Havers, who solve murders in the London area. Lynley is portrayed by actor Nathaniel Parker, and Havers is portrayed by actress Sharon Small. The series ran from 2001 to 2007, and consists of 23 independent stories or cases that run over 90 minutes each.
The series is a good production and very entertaining. Lynley is an aristocrat, while Havers comes from a working class background, so this obviously leads to contention and insecurity in their working relationship at various times. Both actors are superb in the role. If you enjoyed Inspector Lynley Mysteries, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, Inspector Morse, and Midsomer Murders. If you like actor Nathaniel Parker, consider the mini-series Injustice.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Morse (TV Series 1987-2000)

Inspector Morse is a a legendary television series from ITV, and based on some novels. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Endeavour Morse and Detective Sergeant (DS) Robbie Lewis, who solve murders in the Oxford area. Morse is portrayed by actor John Thaw, and Lewis is portrayed by Kevin Whatley. The series ran from 1987 to 2000, and there are 33 independent stories or cases that run over 90 minutes each.
This series is superb. I have seen it more than once, and it has aged quite well. There is depth and complexity to the Morse character, which unravels over the course of the series. The series led to the sequel Inspector Lewis, and the prequel Endeavour, which actually features John Thaw’s daughter. If you enjoyed Inspector Morse, some other series to consider include Prime Suspect, George Gently, and Foyle’s War.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jericho of Scotland Yard (TV Series 2005)

Jericho is a television series from ITV. The series was renamed Jericho of Scotland Yard when it was released in the USA. The primary character is Detective Inspector Michael Jericho. The series ran in 2005 and there are four independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This series is not one which I have seen yet, but hope to in the future.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jo (TV Series 2013)

Jo is a television series that was funded by a number of European networks. The dialogue is in English, and the series is set and filmed in Paris. The primary character is Commander Jo Saint-Clair, who leads a team of detectives investigating murders. He is portrayed by actor Jean Reno. There was only one series which ran in 2013, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This series was very average. The positive aspects include the acting of Jean Reno, and the setting and cinematography of Paris. Unfortunately, it comes across as a American produced show. The storylines were rushed to fit a one hour segment. The strange aspect is that all actors spoke with American accents, except for Jean Reno. The concept of this series would had better potential with a different production posture. If you enjoyed Jo, two other series to consider are Falcón and Zen.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Last Detective (TV Series 2003-2007)

The Last Detective is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Constable (DC) “Dangerous” Davies, who is based on some novels, and the nickname was given to make fun of him. Dangerous is a somewhat bumbling detective who solves crimes and murders with his civilian sidekick. Dangerous is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 2003 to 2007, and there are a total of 17 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This is a charming and fun series, which I have viewed more than once. Bad luck seems to follow Davies, but he eventually solves the cases. There is humor in every episode, including the razzing that he receives from his superior and fellow detectives. What particularly stands out is his relationship with his civilian sidekick, who participates in almost every case, and changes jobs every episode, as he can’t seem to keep one. If you enjoyed The Last Detective, some other series to consider are Murder in Suburbia, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, and Father Brown.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Level (TV Series 2016)

The Level is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Sargent (DS) Nancy Devlin, who is assigned to investigate the murder of a corrupt businessman, which she had past dealings with. The series in 2016, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. I have yet to see the series, but hope to in the future.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Life of Crime (TV Series 2013)

Life of Crime is a television television series from ITV. The primary character is Denise woods, and shows her career across three decades as a police constable, detective sergeant, and detective inspector. She believes three different murders in each decades was committed by the same person. The series aired in 2013, and there are three episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed. This was an entertaining series, with the unique aspect of the flashbacks to three different decades. If you enjoyed Life of Crime, some other series to consider include Murderland, and Place of Execution. If you like the actress Haley Atwell, consider the series Restless, Falcón, and the Sally Lockhart Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Life on Mars (TV Series 2006-2007)

Life on Mars is a television television series from ITV. The primary character is police detective Sam Tyler. The series is pseudo science fiction, as while on duty in 2006, Tyler gets knocked unconscious and wakes up in 1973. Tyler is portrayed by British actor John Simm. The series aired from 2006 to 2007, and there are sixteen episodes that run about an hour each. I have yet to view the series but hope to. If you like the actor John Simm, consider State of Play, Code of a Killer, or Prey.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Loch Ness / The Loch (TV Series 2017)

The Loch is a television series from ITV. When it was released in the USA, the series was renamed Loch Ness. The primary character is Detective Sargent Annie Redford, who investigates a murder on the shores of Loch Ness in Scotland. The series ran in 2017, and there are six episodes that run about 45 minutes each. I have not see the series yet, but plan to.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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London Kills (TV Series 2019-2020)

London Kills is a television series commissioned by Acorn. When it was released in the USA. The series follows a team of detectives solving murders in London. Two of the main characters are Detective Inspector David Bradford, who is portrayed by actor Hugo Speer, and Detective Sergeant Vivienne Cole, who is portrayed by Sharon Small. The series ran from 2019-2020, and there are 10 episodes that run about 45 minutes each.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get past the second episode before I abandoned watching this series. The posture came across like I was watching an American television series. If you like the actress Sharon Small, consider the series Inspector Lynley Mysteries or The Bay. If you like the actor Hugo Speer, consider the series Father Brown or Five Days.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Luther (TV Series 2010-2019)

Luther is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) John Luther, who investigates murders in London. He is obsessive about his job, which lead to problems, including with his personal life. Luther is portrayed by actor Idris Elba, who won a Golden Globe award for this role. The series ran from 2010 to 2019, and there are a total of 20 episodes.
This is a solidly produced series and enjoyable view, with a bit of an edge to the character and crimes. I am actually behind in viewing this series, and have only seen the first. If you enjoyed Luther, some other series to consider include Rebus, Cracker, and Murphy’s Law.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Maigret (TV Series 1992-1993)

Maigret is a television series from ITV. The primary character is French police detective Jules Maigret, who is portrayed by actor Michael Gambon. The series has ran from 1992 to 1993, and there are 12 episodes that run about an hour each.
It has been years since I viewed Maigret, and do not even have a faint recollection. The series has been remade, and Maigret is portrayed by actor Rowan Atkinson.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Maigret (TV Series 2016-2017)

Maigret is a television series from ITV. This is an reboot of series of the same name from the early 1990s. The primary character is French police detective Jules Maigret, who is portrayed by actor Rowan Atkinson. The series has ran from 2016 to 2017, and there are four independent episodes or stories that run about about 90 minutes each. They are billed more as television movies, so IMDb lists each separately. The series was not renewed.
This is an outstanding series. There is a somewhat dark noir type of atmosphere to the series. Atkinson is superb in this role, and I really enjoyed the character and acting. I was insanely disppointed this series was not renewed. If you enjoyed Maigret, some other series to consider include George Gently and Endeavour.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Manhunt (TV Series 2019+)

Manhunt is a television series from ITV. This is a dramatization of a true story about the 2004 murder of French student Amélie Delagrange. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton, who is portrayed by actor Martin Clunes. The series aired in 2019, and is spread across three episodes that run about an hour each. It was renewed for a second series. This was a solidly entertaining procedural. If you enjoyed Manhunt, another true crime drama series to consider is Code of Killer. If you like the actor Martin Clunes, consider the series Arthur & George or A Mother’s Son.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Marcella (TV Series 2016-2020)

Marcella is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Sergeant (DS) Marcella Backland, who is portrayed by actress Anna Friel. The first series is one storyline, where Marcella is brought back to help investigate a new case that bears similarities to a prior unsolved serial murder case that she worked. The series aired from 2016 to 2020, and there are a total of 25 episodes that run about an hour each.
The is was an entertaining series. Marcella is complex and flawed character. There was good plot and sub-plot development. If you enjoyed Marcella, some other series to consider are Luther and Thorne.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Messiah (TV Series 2001-2008)

Messiah is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is a detective that leads a team that hunts serial killers of some gruesome murders. The primary detective in the first four cases is portrayed by actor Ken Stott. The primary detective in the last case is portrayed by actor Marc Warren. The series ran from 2001 to 2008, and there are a total of five independent stories or cases that run up to 180 minutes each.
This series was produced well, and was worth a view, but I felt that it degraded in each subsequent series. If you enjoyed Messiah, some other series to consider include Touching Evil, Wire in the Blood, and Cracker. If you like Ken Stott, consider the series Rebus, and The Vice. If you like Marc Warren, consider the series Hustle, and he is also featured in The Vice with Ken Stott.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Midsomer Murders (1997-2020)

Midsomer Murders is a long running series from ITV, and the characters are based on some novels. The primary characters are two detectives that solve murders in the English countryside. Over the course of the series, there have been two different characters and actors in the role of the lead detective. And four different characters and actors in the assistant detective role. The series has run since 1996, and there are over 116 independent cases or stories that run about 90 minutes each. The show is a classic. It is quirky and light hearted, and does not take itself seriously. It makes everyone in the English countryside out to be somewhat quirky, including the detectives. The simple rule of thumb is that if you like one episode, you will generally like them all, as they follow a simple formula. But given that, starting with Series 16, I feel that the series took a nose dive. The scripts and acting became dull, and all quirkiness and charm is gone. If you enjoy Midsomer Murders, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, The Last Detective, and the Brokenwood Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Bay (TV Series 2019-2021+)

The Bay is a television series from British network ITV. The primary character is Detective Sergeant (DS) Lisa Armstong who is family liaison officer on a murder investigation team, and also a divorced mother of two teenage children. The series is set in the area of Morecambe Bay in Lancashire County on the west coast of England. Armstrong is portrayed by Scottish actress Morven Christie. The series has run since 2019, and so far there have been two seasons, each with an independent case that spans the seasons. Each season has six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a third season.
This series was entertaining and solidly produced, and offers a different perspective focused on a family liaison officer. Christie's portrayal of the Armstrong character is outstanding. Armstrong has a propensity to sometimes make spontaneously bad decisions, where I found myself saying to the TV "don't do that Lisa," and other times brings brilliance to the investigation. If you like actress Morven Christie, consider the series Grantchester, or The Replacement.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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Partners in Crime (TV Series 2015)

Partners in Crimes is a television television series from the BBC. The series was adapted from Agatha Christie novels and characters Tommy and Tupence. The series is set right after World War II, and both Tommy and Tupence are unchallenged in their daily lives. Tommy’s uncle works for British intelligence, and both jump at the chance to serve their country. The series aired in 2015, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed.
This was entertaining series with occasional of unique humor. It does not take itself seriously, and there is fun chemistry between the characters. If you enjoyed Partners in Crime, some other series to consider include Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Politician’s Husband (TV Mini-Series 2013)

The Politician’s Husband is a television mini-series from the BBC. While the characters and story are unrelated, it is more or less a reverse twist to another mini-series called The Politician’s Wife. The mini-series tells the story of couple who are both politicians, their corruption, and how her career passes his. The primary characters are portrayed by actor David Tennant and actress Emily Watson. The mini-series aired in 2013, and is about three hours long.
This was an entertaining mini-series, and a worthwhile view. While unrelated in story, I would also recommend viewing the Politician’s Wife, as they are conceptually similar, and equally entertaining. If you enjoyed The Politician’s Husband, some other series to consider trying are The Politician’s Wife, and State of Play. If you like the actor David Tennant, consider trying the series Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Politician’s Wife (TV Mini-Series 1995)

The Politician’s Wife is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series tells the story of a political scandal when an affair is exposed. The primary characters are portrayed by actor Trevor Eve, who plays a member of British parliament, and his wife is portrayed by Juliet Stevenson. The mini-series ran in 1995, and is about three hours long.

This was an entertaining mini-series, and a good view. While unrelated in story, I would also recommend viewing the Politician’s Husband, as they are conceptually similar, and equally entertaining. If you enjoyed The Politician’s Wife, some other series to consider trying are The Politician’s Husband. If you like the actor Trevor Eve, consider trying the series Waking the Dead, and Kidnap & Ransom. If you like the actress Juliet Stevenson, consider trying the series Place of Execution.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Restless (TV Mini-Series 2012)

Restless is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series tells the story of a woman who discovers her mother was a spy for Britain during World War II, and the story rotates between the 1970s and World War II. The daughter is portrayed by Michelle Dockery, and mother is portrayed by both Hayley Atwell and Charlotte Rampling. The mini-series aired in 2012, and is about three hours long. This was a solid and entertaining espionage yarn, with the unique story line of the daughter learning of her mother’s role, and the rotation from the 1970s to World War II. The cast also includes Rufus Sewell (from Zen), James Norton (from Grantchester), and Michael Gambon (from numerous appearances). If you liked Restless, consider the mini-series The Game, and The Assets. If you like actress Hayley Atwell, consider the mini-series Life of Crime. If you like actress Charlotte Rampling, consider the mini-series London Spy and Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Secret Agent (TV Mini-Series 2016)

The Secret Agent is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is set in London during the late 1800s. The main character is Anton Verloc, who owns a shop in London, and is secretly working for the Russian government. Verloc is portrayed by actor Toby Jones, and his wife is portrayed by actress Vicky McClure. The mini-series aired in 2016, and is about three hours long.
This was an average series which I found a bit dull. If you like actress Vicky McClure, consider the series Line of Duty, and Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Secret State (TV Mini-Series 2012)

Secret State is a television mini-series from Channel 4 in the UK. The mini-series is about a political conspiracy at the highest levels of the British government. The primary character is Tom Dawkins, a Minister of Parliament (MP), who becomes Prime Minister (PM). Dawkins is portrayed by actor Gabriel Byrne. The mini-series aired in 2012, and is about three hours long. This was a solid and entertaining political conspiracy. While somewhat of a thriller, the pace moves steadily but is not rushed. The casting, acting, and cinematography are all outstanding. There is good character depth and development with the Dawkins character, and Byrne completely nailed this role. This mini-series may not be for everyone, though. Without giving away any spoilers, there is a very cynical plot development, with an intended political commentary. If you enjoyed Secret State, some other series to consider are The State Within, State of Play, The Politician’s Wife, and the Politician’s Husband. If you like the actor Gabriel Byrne, consider trying the series Quirke, or the movie I, Anna. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The State Within (TV Mini-Series 2006)

The State Within is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is a political conspiracy thriller concerning a threat to Western democracies. The story locations include Washington D.C. and London. One of the primary characters is the British Ambassador to America, portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs. The mini-series aired in 2006, and is about six hours long.
This was a highly entertaining and recognizably over the top political conspiracy thriller. It does have a slight theatrical movie feel, with some teasing twists. If you enjoyed The State Within, some other conspiracy oriented series to consider are State of Play, The Politician’s Wife, and the Politician’s Husband. If you like actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the series Case Histories.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Worricker Trilogy (TV Movies 2011-2014)

The Worricker Trilogy is a collection of three televisions movies from the BBC, and the individual movie titles are Page Eight, Turks & Caicos, and Salting the Battlefield. The primary character is Johnny Worricker, who is an agent with MI5, the British domestic security service. Worricker winds up on the run and hiding out at various locations worldwide. Worricker is portrayed by actor Bill Nighy. The movies aired in 2011 and 2014, and run about 90 minutes each. As they are billed as movies, the IMDb and Wikipedia links will display Page Eight, which is the first in the trilogy.
Together, each of the stories or movies tells a cohesive story concerning the Worricker character. They were an entertaining view, and I’m a big fan of Bill Nighy, but I did feel that each subsequent story degraded. If you enjoyed The Worricker Trilogy, consider the conspiracy mini-series State of Play, which also features actor Bill Nighy. He also plays a hitman in the dark comedy Wild Target, which also stars Emily Blunt, and Rupert Grint (from Harry Potter).

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The 39 Steps (TV Movie 2008)

The 39 Steps is a television movie from the BBC, and it also aired on PBS in the US. It was adapted from a 1915 novel of the same name, and was also made into a 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock. The story is set on the eve of World War I, and is a murder conspiracy thriller. The main character is portrayed by actor Rupert Penry-Jones. The movie aired in 2008, and is about 90 minutes long.
I viewed the movie when it aired on PBS, and my memory is somewhat rusty. I recall it being an entertaining espionage yarn, and that it had some Hitchcock flair. If you enjoyed The 39 Steps, some other period espionage series to consider are The Game, and The Assets. If you like the actor Rupert Penry-Jones, consider trying the series MI5 / Spooks, Whitechapel, and Silk

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Above Suspicion (TV Series 2009-2012)

Above Suspicion is a television series from ITV. The series was written by Lynda La Plante, the same writer as Prime Suspect, and Trial & Retribution. The two primary characters are Detective Constable (DC) Anna Travis, and her superior, Detective Chief Investigator (DCI) James Langton. Travis is portrayed by actress Kelly Reilly, and Langton is portrayed by actor Ciarán Hinds. The series ran from 2009 to 2012, and there are a total of four independent stories or cases, each roughly 3 hours in length.
This is a solid police procedural series, and was an enjoyable view. There is good character development across the series. For example, Travis is regularly trying to prove herself, and Langton is regularly correcting her to the point where she thinks he is holding her career back. If you enjoyed Above Suspicion, some other series to consider include DCI Banks, Prime Suspect, and Trial & Retribution.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Bancroft (TV Series 2017-2020)

Bancroft is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Elizabeth Bancroft, who is portrayed by actress Sarah Parish. The series ran from 2017 to 2020, and there are eight one hour episodes. This was an entertaining and unique series, and without any spoilers, Bancroft harbors a dark secret. It received mixed reviews as some plot aspects are over the top, and some didn’t realize that the ending was open-ended, as it was renewed for a second series. If you enjoyed Bancroft, some other series to consider include Line of Duty.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Blue Murder (TV Series 2003-2009)

Blue Murder is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Janine Lewis, who is a divorced mother of four children. She leads a team of detectives that solve murders in Manchester, England. Lewis is portrayed by actress Caroline Quentin. The series ran from 2003 to 2009, and there are a total of 19 individual stories or cases that run about an hour each.
This is a good and entertaining series. It ventures mildly into her personal life in an appropriate manner, such as issues with balancing her family and career. There some subtle humor, including a romantic attraction with a detective that is on her team. If you enjoyed Blue Murder, some other series to consider are A Touch of Frost, New Tricks, and Scott & Bailey. If you like the actress Caroline Quentin, consider the series Jonathan Creek. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Broadchurch (TV Series (2015-2017)

Broadchurch is a television series from ITV. The two primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Alec Hardy and Detective Sergeant (DS) Ellie Miller. Hardy is portrayed by actor David Tennant, and Miller is portrayed by Olivia Colman. The first series aired in 2013, and is about seven hours in length. The first series is a single case or story, where they lead a team that investigates the murder of a young boy in a coastal community. The second series aired in 2015, and continues the story by introducing new facts. And a third series aired in 2017.
The first series was an outstanding police procedural, with a superb script, cast, acting, and cinematography. Without revealing spoilers, the second series continues the same story, though the first series ended with some form of closure. My preference would have been for them to start a new primary storyline. If you enjoyed Broadchurch, some other series to consider include Happy Valley, and Mayday. If you like David Tennant, consider trying The Politician’s Husband, and The Escape Artist. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Brokenwood Mysteries (TV Series 2014-2019+)

The Brokenwood Mysteries is a television series from New Zealand. The two primary characters are Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd and Detective Sergeant Kristin Sims, who investigate murders in a small village in New Zealand. The series has aired since 2014, and so far there are 24 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a highly entertaining and light series, and several reviews accurately describe it as New Zealand’s answer to Midsomer Murders. There is an abundance of amusing dry wit and humor in each episode. It fun to follow detective Shepherd driving in his old car, his affection for country music, and his quirkiness with talking to the bodies of the recently murdered. If you enjoyed the Brokenwood Mysteries, consider trying Midsomer Murders, or the Last Detective.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Case Sensitive (TV Series 2011-2012)

Case Sensitive is a television series from ITV. The characters and stories are based on some novels. The two primary characters are Detective Sergeant (DS) Charlie Zailer and Detective Constable (DC) Simon Waterhouse, who investigate murders together. Zailer is portrayed by Olivia Williams, and Waterhouse is portrayed by Darren Boyd. The series ran from 2011 to 2012, and there are two independent stories or cases than run about 2 hours each. This was a solid and entertaining police procedural, and I was disappointed that it had such a short run. The acting was good, and there was chemistry between both characters. It is one that I plan to watch again in the future. If you enjoyed Case Sensitive, some other series to consider include Vera, Shetland, Hinterland, and Inspector Lynley Mysteries. If you like Darren Boyd, consider the series Dirk Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Collateral (TV Series 2017)

Collateral is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Kip Glaspie, who is portrayed by British actress Carey Mulligan. The series begins with Glaspie investigating the murder of a pizza delivery man. The series ran in 2017, and runs about four hours.
This was an entertaining series, and I found the Glaspie character to be intriguing and resolute, and I was immensely disappointed that the series was not renewed. If you are an avid viewer of British television, the rest of the cast includes a number of familiar faces. If you enjoyed Collateral, some other series to consider include Unforgotten and Marcella.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Commander (TV Series 2003-2008)

The Commander is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Commander Clare Blake, who leads a team of detectives investigating murder in London. Commander Blake is portrayed by actress Amanda Burton. The series ran from 2003 to 2008, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases than run up to 180 minutes each.
It has been a while since viewing, but I recall this this being an entertaining series. Without giving away any spoilers, the Blake character bears some rough similarities to the Tennison character in Prime Suspect. If you enjoyed The Commander, some others series to consider are Prime Suspect, and Babylon. If you like the actress Amanda Burton, consider trying the series Silent Witness, or Helen West. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dalziel & Pascoe (TV Series 1996-2007)

Dalziel & Pascoe is a television series from the BBC. The characters originate from some novels. The primary characters are Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel and Detective Sergeant Peter Pascoe, who investigate murders together in the Yorkshire area. Dalziel is portrayed by actor Warren Clarke, and Pascoe is portrayed by actor Colin Buchanan. The series ran from 1996 to 2007, and there are a total of 46 independent stories or cases that run up to 120 minutes each. This is a solid police procedural, and one that I would recommend. Dalziel is politically incorrect and rough around the edges, but Pascoe sometimes helps smooth out some of those aspects. There is some subtle humor with the quirkiness of Dalziel. If you enjoyed Dalziel & Pascoe, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, Cracker, Rebus, and George Gently. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Dark Heart (TV Series 2018)

Dark Heart is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Will Wagstaffe, who is portrayed by actor Tom Riley. The series ran in 2018, and there are three independent stories that run about two hours each. I have not yet seen the series. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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DCI Banks (TV Series 2010-2016)

DCI Banks is a television series from ITV. The character and stories are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Alan Banks, who leads a team of detectives solving murders in Yorkshire. Banks is portrayed by actor Stephen Tompkinson. Two other detective characters are portrayed by actresses Andrea Lowe and Caroline Catz. The series ran form 2010 to 2016, and 16 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is an great and entertaining police procedural, and one that I have watched again already. If you enjoyed DCI Banks, some other series to consider include Vera, Hinterland, and Shetland. If you like Caroline Catz, consider the series Murder in Suburbia. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Death in Paradise (TV Series 2011-2021)

Death in Paradise is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is a British police detective, who now serves in the British islands. There have been three different actors and actresses in the role of the primary character. The series has run since 2011, and so far, there are 76 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. While I did view a few of the stories from the first season, the series simply is not my preference, and the island setting did not interest me. The series is light and quirky, so if you are looking for a series with some humor, you might give this one a try. If you enjoyed Death in Paradise, consider try the series The Last Detective, or Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Endeavour (TV Series 2012-2020+)

Endeavour is a television series from ITV. The series is a prequel of Inspector Morse, while Inspector Lewis is a sequel. The primary character is obviously Endeavour Morse, and it traces his start as a Detective Constable (DC). Morse is portrayed by actor Shaun Evans. The series has run since 2012, and so far, there are 30 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a great police procedural, and some have even argued it is better than original. The acting and cinematography are superb, and accompanied with great music from Barrington Pheloug. This prequel is a great companion to the Inspector Morse franchise, and I am a fan of all three series. It should be noted that the daughter of John Thaw is part of the cast. If you enjoyed Endeavour, some other series to consider are George Gently, and Foyle’s War. If you enjoy actor Shaun Evans, consider the mini-series The Take.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Falcón (TV Series 2012)

Falcón is a television series from Sky Atlantic. The primary character is Chief Inspector Javier Falcón, who is a police detective solving murder in Seville, Spain. Falcón is portrayed by actor Maron Csokas, who has appeared in numerous theatrical films, including the Lord of the Rings. Actress Emilia Fox, from the Silent Witness series, portrays the separated wife of Falcón. There was only one series, which ran in 2012, and there are two independent stories or cases that run about two hours each. This was entertaining police procedural and worth a view, especially if you are looking for an English language series set in a country outside of the UK. If you enjoyed Falcón, another series to consider is Zen, which is set in Italy.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Fall (TV Series 2013-2016)

The Fall is a television series from the BBC. The primary character Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, who is sent from London to Belfast, Northern Ireland, in order to help push along a stalled murder investigation. She quickly determines that there is a serial killer. Gibson is portrayed by actress Gillian Anderson. It is one singular case, and spans two series. The first series aired in 2013 and runs about five hours, and the second series aired in 2014 and runs about six hours. There is a third series aired in 2016 and also runs about six hours. The first series was an entertaining thriller and police procedural. I am typically not a fan of series where the same storyline spans multiple series. I would have preferred that they gave closure in the first series, and began an entirely different case in the second series. But given that, The Fall was still an entertaining view. If you enjoyed The Fall, some other series to consider include Happy Valley, Line of Duty, Touching Evil, and Prey.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Foyle's War (TV Series 2002-2015)

Foyle’s War is a television series from ITV. The series was created by Anthony Horowitz, who was involved with Poirot, Midsomer Murders, Murder in Mind, Collision, and Injustice. The primary character is Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle. The series starts out during World War II, where Foyle investigates crime and murder in the coastal town of Hastings. The series later moves into post war London, where Foyle joins MI-5, the British domestic security service. Foyle is portrayed by actor Michael Kitchen. The series ran from 2002 to 2015, and there are 28 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a outstanding and entertaining series, with superb acting and cinematography. Some of the crimes during war period are quite interesting, and they made an interesting transition to his post-war role with MI5. If you enjoyed Foyle’s War, some other series to consider include Endeavour, The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, The Bletchley Circle, and The Game.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector George Gently (TV Series 2007-2017)

Inspector George Gently series is a television series from the BBC. The series is set during the 1960s, and is based on some characters from some novels. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) George Gently and Detective Sergeant (DS) John Bacchus, who investigate murders in Northumberland. The series ran from 2007 to 2017, and there are 25 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a great retro police procedural, and a favorite of mine. The cinematography and acting are great, and they bring the characters to life and are perfect in the roles. It is fun to watch the antics of Bacchus, trying to be “cool” during the 1960s, and how Gently observes and sometimes laughs. If you enjoyed George Gently, some other series to consider include Endeavour, A Touch of Frost, and Dalziel & Pascoe.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Giri / Haji (TV Series 2019)

Giri / Haji is a television series from the BBC. The title is Japanese and translates as “Duty/Shame.” The series is set in London and Japan, with dialogue both in English and Japanese. The story concerns a detective who travels from Tokyo to London searching for his brother, who was involved with organized crime and previously thought to have been dead. In London he is assisted by a Detective Constable, who is portrayed Kelly Macdonald. The series aired in 2019, and there are 8 episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed. This was an entertaining series, especially with being set in two countries. If you enjoy the Kelly Macdonald, consider the series State of Play and The Victim.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Guilty (TV Mini-Series 2013)

The Guilty is television mini-series from ITV. The story concerns the disappearnce of a young boy, who is found dead five years later. The investigation is lead by Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Maggie Brand, who is portrayed by actress Tamsin Greig. The cast also includes actor Darren Boyd. The mini-series was released in 2013, and runs about three hours.
This was an entertaining procedural with good plot development and rotation through various suspects, and an unexpected ending. If you enjoyed The Guilty, some other series to consider include Broadchurch. If you like the actor Darren Boyd, consider the series Case Sensitive, and Dirk Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hidden (TV Series 2018)

Hidden is a television series from Welsh network S4C. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Cadi John, who is portrayed by actress Sian Reese-Williams. The series contains dialogue is both Welsh and English. The series ran in 2018, and is spread across eight one hour episodes. I plan on watching the series in the near future.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Hinterland (TV Series 2013-2016)

Hinterland is a television series from BBC Wales. It follows a team of police detectives solving murders in a rural part of Wales. There is a very minor amount of dialogue that is in Welsh, which is really only several sentences in each episode, and those are subtitled. They simultaneously filmed an English dialogue version, and a Welsh dialogue version for broadcast in Wales. The series ran from 2013 to 2016, and there are 26 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This is a superb series, with great casting and cinematography. It is more edgy than Vera, but a similar rural atmosphere. If you enjoyed Hinterland, some other series to consider are Broadchurch, and Suspects.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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I, Anna (Theatrical Movie 2012)

I, Anna is a theatrical film that was released in the UK. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Bernie Reid, who is a police detective in London. It a noir type film, and Reid romantically falls for a woman who is a possible suspect in a murder investigation. Reid is portrayed by actor Gabriel Byrne. The movie was released in 2012, and runs about 90 minutes. The movie was somewhat dry, and was an average view. If you enjoyed I, Anna, some other series or movies to consider include Dead Gorgeous. If you like the actor Gabriel Byrne, consider trying Secret State, or Quirke. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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In the Dark (TV Series 2017)

In the Dark is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Helen Weeks, who is portrayed by actress MyAnna Buring. Another minor character, Detective Inspector (DI) Adam Perrin is portrayed by actor David Leon from the series Vera. The series ran in 2017, and there are two separate stories or cases that run about two hours each. I have yet to see the series, but plan to watch it.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Alleyn Mysteries (TV Series 1990-1994)

Inspector Alleyn Mysteries is a television series from the BBC. The series is set during the late 1930s, and based on novels. The primary character Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Roderick Alleyn, who investigates murders. Alleyn is portrayed by actor Patrick Malahide, who has guest starred in a number of crime and mystery series, and also known from Game of Thrones. The series ran from 1990 to 1994, and there are a total of nine independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. I only watched the first couple of episodes. The series was an average production, and was a bit dry and slow for my taste.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Lewis (TV Series 2006-2015)

Inspector Lewis is a television series from ITV. The series is a sequel to Inspector Morse, while Endeavour is a prequel. The primary characters are Detective Inspector Robbie Lewis and Detective Sergeant James Hathaway. Lewis portrayed by actor Kevin Whately, who reprised his role from Morse, and Hathaway is portrayed by actor Laurence Fox, who is a first cousin of actress Emilia Fox from the Silent Witness series. The series ran from 2006 to 2015, and there are 33 stories that run over 90 minutes each.
This is a superbly enjoyable series, and I love the educational setting in Oxford. There is significant character development over the course of this series, especially with the Hathaway character. My only criticism is that some of the plots have been trivial and used before in other series, but this may be irrelevant to more casual viewers of British television. If you enjoy Inspector Lewis, some other series to consider include Vera, DCI Banks, A Touch of Frost, and George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Lynley Mysteries (TV Series 2001-2007)

Inspector Lynley Mysteries is a television series from the BBC. The characters are based on some novels. The primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Thomas Lynley and Detective Sergeant (DS) Barbara Havers, who solve murders in the London area. Lynley is portrayed by actor Nathaniel Parker, and Havers is portrayed by actress Sharon Small. The series ran from 2001 to 2007, and consists of 23 independent stories or cases that run over 90 minutes each.
The series is a good production and very entertaining. Lynley is an aristocrat, while Havers comes from a working class background, so this obviously leads to contention and insecurity in their working relationship at various times. Both actors are superb in the role. If you enjoyed Inspector Lynley Mysteries, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, Inspector Morse, and Midsomer Murders. If you like actor Nathaniel Parker, consider the mini-series Injustice.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Inspector Morse (TV Series 1987-2000)

Inspector Morse is a a legendary television series from ITV, and based on some novels. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Endeavour Morse and Detective Sergeant (DS) Robbie Lewis, who solve murders in the Oxford area. Morse is portrayed by actor John Thaw, and Lewis is portrayed by Kevin Whatley. The series ran from 1987 to 2000, and there are 33 independent stories or cases that run over 90 minutes each.
This series is superb. I have seen it more than once, and it has aged quite well. There is depth and complexity to the Morse character, which unravels over the course of the series. The series led to the sequel Inspector Lewis, and the prequel Endeavour, which actually features John Thaw’s daughter. If you enjoyed Inspector Morse, some other series to consider include Prime Suspect, George Gently, and Foyle’s War.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jericho of Scotland Yard (TV Series 2005)

Jericho is a television series from ITV. The series was renamed Jericho of Scotland Yard when it was released in the USA. The primary character is Detective Inspector Michael Jericho. The series ran in 2005 and there are four independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each. This series is not one which I have seen yet, but hope to in the future.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Jo (TV Series 2013)

Jo is a television series that was funded by a number of European networks. The dialogue is in English, and the series is set and filmed in Paris. The primary character is Commander Jo Saint-Clair, who leads a team of detectives investigating murders. He is portrayed by actor Jean Reno. There was only one series which ran in 2013, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This series was very average. The positive aspects include the acting of Jean Reno, and the setting and cinematography of Paris. Unfortunately, it comes across as a American produced show. The storylines were rushed to fit a one hour segment. The strange aspect is that all actors spoke with American accents, except for Jean Reno. The concept of this series would had better potential with a different production posture. If you enjoyed Jo, two other series to consider are Falcón and Zen.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Last Detective (TV Series 2003-2007)

The Last Detective is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Constable (DC) “Dangerous” Davies, who is based on some novels, and the nickname was given to make fun of him. Dangerous is a somewhat bumbling detective who solves crimes and murders with his civilian sidekick. Dangerous is portrayed by actor Peter Davison. The series ran from 2003 to 2007, and there are a total of 17 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This is a charming and fun series, which I have viewed more than once. Bad luck seems to follow Davies, but he eventually solves the cases. There is humor in every episode, including the razzing that he receives from his superior and fellow detectives. What particularly stands out is his relationship with his civilian sidekick, who participates in almost every case, and changes jobs every episode, as he can’t seem to keep one. If you enjoyed The Last Detective, some other series to consider are Murder in Suburbia, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, and Father Brown.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Level (TV Series 2016)

The Level is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Sargent (DS) Nancy Devlin, who is assigned to investigate the murder of a corrupt businessman, which she had past dealings with. The series in 2016, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. I have yet to see the series, but hope to in the future.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Life of Crime (TV Series 2013)

Life of Crime is a television television series from ITV. The primary character is Denise woods, and shows her career across three decades as a police constable, detective sergeant, and detective inspector. She believes three different murders in each decades was committed by the same person. The series aired in 2013, and there are three episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed. This was an entertaining series, with the unique aspect of the flashbacks to three different decades. If you enjoyed Life of Crime, some other series to consider include Murderland, and Place of Execution. If you like the actress Haley Atwell, consider the series Restless, Falcón, and the Sally Lockhart Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Life on Mars (TV Series 2006-2007)

Life on Mars is a television television series from ITV. The primary character is police detective Sam Tyler. The series is pseudo science fiction, as while on duty in 2006, Tyler gets knocked unconscious and wakes up in 1973. Tyler is portrayed by British actor John Simm. The series aired from 2006 to 2007, and there are sixteen episodes that run about an hour each. I have yet to view the series but hope to. If you like the actor John Simm, consider State of Play, Code of a Killer, or Prey.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Loch Ness / The Loch (TV Series 2017)

The Loch is a television series from ITV. When it was released in the USA, the series was renamed Loch Ness. The primary character is Detective Sargent Annie Redford, who investigates a murder on the shores of Loch Ness in Scotland. The series ran in 2017, and there are six episodes that run about 45 minutes each. I have not see the series yet, but plan to.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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London Kills (TV Series 2019-2020)

London Kills is a television series commissioned by Acorn. When it was released in the USA. The series follows a team of detectives solving murders in London. Two of the main characters are Detective Inspector David Bradford, who is portrayed by actor Hugo Speer, and Detective Sergeant Vivienne Cole, who is portrayed by Sharon Small. The series ran from 2019-2020, and there are 10 episodes that run about 45 minutes each.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get past the second episode before I abandoned watching this series. The posture came across like I was watching an American television series. If you like the actress Sharon Small, consider the series Inspector Lynley Mysteries or The Bay. If you like the actor Hugo Speer, consider the series Father Brown or Five Days.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Luther (TV Series 2010-2019)

Luther is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) John Luther, who investigates murders in London. He is obsessive about his job, which lead to problems, including with his personal life. Luther is portrayed by actor Idris Elba, who won a Golden Globe award for this role. The series ran from 2010 to 2019, and there are a total of 20 episodes.
This is a solidly produced series and enjoyable view, with a bit of an edge to the character and crimes. I am actually behind in viewing this series, and have only seen the first. If you enjoyed Luther, some other series to consider include Rebus, Cracker, and Murphy’s Law.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Maigret (TV Series 1992-1993)

Maigret is a television series from ITV. The primary character is French police detective Jules Maigret, who is portrayed by actor Michael Gambon. The series has ran from 1992 to 1993, and there are 12 episodes that run about an hour each.
It has been years since I viewed Maigret, and do not even have a faint recollection. The series has been remade, and Maigret is portrayed by actor Rowan Atkinson.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Maigret (TV Series 2016-2017)

Maigret is a television series from ITV. This is an reboot of series of the same name from the early 1990s. The primary character is French police detective Jules Maigret, who is portrayed by actor Rowan Atkinson. The series has ran from 2016 to 2017, and there are four independent episodes or stories that run about about 90 minutes each. They are billed more as television movies, so IMDb lists each separately. The series was not renewed.
This is an outstanding series. There is a somewhat dark noir type of atmosphere to the series. Atkinson is superb in this role, and I really enjoyed the character and acting. I was insanely disppointed this series was not renewed. If you enjoyed Maigret, some other series to consider include George Gently and Endeavour.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Manhunt (TV Series 2019+)

Manhunt is a television series from ITV. This is a dramatization of a true story about the 2004 murder of French student Amélie Delagrange. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton, who is portrayed by actor Martin Clunes. The series aired in 2019, and is spread across three episodes that run about an hour each. It was renewed for a second series. This was a solidly entertaining procedural. If you enjoyed Manhunt, another true crime drama series to consider is Code of Killer. If you like the actor Martin Clunes, consider the series Arthur & George or A Mother’s Son.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Marcella (TV Series 2016-2020)

Marcella is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Sergeant (DS) Marcella Backland, who is portrayed by actress Anna Friel. The first series is one storyline, where Marcella is brought back to help investigate a new case that bears similarities to a prior unsolved serial murder case that she worked. The series aired from 2016 to 2020, and there are a total of 25 episodes that run about an hour each.
The is was an entertaining series. Marcella is complex and flawed character. There was good plot and sub-plot development. If you enjoyed Marcella, some other series to consider are Luther and Thorne.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Messiah (TV Series 2001-2008)

Messiah is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is a detective that leads a team that hunts serial killers of some gruesome murders. The primary detective in the first four cases is portrayed by actor Ken Stott. The primary detective in the last case is portrayed by actor Marc Warren. The series ran from 2001 to 2008, and there are a total of five independent stories or cases that run up to 180 minutes each.
This series was produced well, and was worth a view, but I felt that it degraded in each subsequent series. If you enjoyed Messiah, some other series to consider include Touching Evil, Wire in the Blood, and Cracker. If you like Ken Stott, consider the series Rebus, and The Vice. If you like Marc Warren, consider the series Hustle, and he is also featured in The Vice with Ken Stott.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Midsomer Murders (1997-2020)

Midsomer Murders is a long running series from ITV, and the characters are based on some novels. The primary characters are two detectives that solve murders in the English countryside. Over the course of the series, there have been two different characters and actors in the role of the lead detective. And four different characters and actors in the assistant detective role. The series has run since 1996, and there are over 116 independent cases or stories that run about 90 minutes each. The show is a classic. It is quirky and light hearted, and does not take itself seriously. It makes everyone in the English countryside out to be somewhat quirky, including the detectives. The simple rule of thumb is that if you like one episode, you will generally like them all, as they follow a simple formula. But given that, starting with Series 16, I feel that the series took a nose dive. The scripts and acting became dull, and all quirkiness and charm is gone. If you enjoy Midsomer Murders, some other series to consider include A Touch of Frost, The Last Detective, and the Brokenwood Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Bay (TV Series 2019-2021+)

The Bay is a television series from British network ITV. The primary character is Detective Sergeant (DS) Lisa Armstong who is family liaison officer on a murder investigation team, and also a divorced mother of two teenage children. The series is set in the area of Morecambe Bay in Lancashire County on the west coast of England. Armstrong is portrayed by Scottish actress Morven Christie. The series has run since 2019, and so far there have been two seasons, each with an independent case that spans the seasons. Each season has six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was renewed for a third season.
This series was entertaining and solidly produced, and offers a different perspective focused on a family liaison officer. Christie's portrayal of the Armstrong character is outstanding. Armstrong has a propensity to sometimes make spontaneously bad decisions, where I found myself saying to the TV "don't do that Lisa," and other times brings brilliance to the investigation. If you like actress Morven Christie, consider the series Grantchester, or The Replacement.

Summary updated on February 18, 2021

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Partners in Crime (TV Series 2015)

Partners in Crimes is a television television series from the BBC. The series was adapted from Agatha Christie novels and characters Tommy and Tupence. The series is set right after World War II, and both Tommy and Tupence are unchallenged in their daily lives. Tommy’s uncle works for British intelligence, and both jump at the chance to serve their country. The series aired in 2015, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed.
This was entertaining series with occasional of unique humor. It does not take itself seriously, and there is fun chemistry between the characters. If you enjoyed Partners in Crime, some other series to consider include Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Politician’s Husband (TV Mini-Series 2013)

The Politician’s Husband is a television mini-series from the BBC. While the characters and story are unrelated, it is more or less a reverse twist to another mini-series called The Politician’s Wife. The mini-series tells the story of couple who are both politicians, their corruption, and how her career passes his. The primary characters are portrayed by actor David Tennant and actress Emily Watson. The mini-series aired in 2013, and is about three hours long.
This was an entertaining mini-series, and a worthwhile view. While unrelated in story, I would also recommend viewing the Politician’s Wife, as they are conceptually similar, and equally entertaining. If you enjoyed The Politician’s Husband, some other series to consider trying are The Politician’s Wife, and State of Play. If you like the actor David Tennant, consider trying the series Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Politician’s Wife (TV Mini-Series 1995)

The Politician’s Wife is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series tells the story of a political scandal when an affair is exposed. The primary characters are portrayed by actor Trevor Eve, who plays a member of British parliament, and his wife is portrayed by Juliet Stevenson. The mini-series ran in 1995, and is about three hours long.

This was an entertaining mini-series, and a good view. While unrelated in story, I would also recommend viewing the Politician’s Husband, as they are conceptually similar, and equally entertaining. If you enjoyed The Politician’s Wife, some other series to consider trying are The Politician’s Husband. If you like the actor Trevor Eve, consider trying the series Waking the Dead, and Kidnap & Ransom. If you like the actress Juliet Stevenson, consider trying the series Place of Execution.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Restless (TV Mini-Series 2012)

Restless is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series tells the story of a woman who discovers her mother was a spy for Britain during World War II, and the story rotates between the 1970s and World War II. The daughter is portrayed by Michelle Dockery, and mother is portrayed by both Hayley Atwell and Charlotte Rampling. The mini-series aired in 2012, and is about three hours long. This was a solid and entertaining espionage yarn, with the unique story line of the daughter learning of her mother’s role, and the rotation from the 1970s to World War II. The cast also includes Rufus Sewell (from Zen), James Norton (from Grantchester), and Michael Gambon (from numerous appearances). If you liked Restless, consider the mini-series The Game, and The Assets. If you like actress Hayley Atwell, consider the mini-series Life of Crime. If you like actress Charlotte Rampling, consider the mini-series London Spy and Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Secret Agent (TV Mini-Series 2016)

The Secret Agent is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is set in London during the late 1800s. The main character is Anton Verloc, who owns a shop in London, and is secretly working for the Russian government. Verloc is portrayed by actor Toby Jones, and his wife is portrayed by actress Vicky McClure. The mini-series aired in 2016, and is about three hours long.
This was an average series which I found a bit dull. If you like actress Vicky McClure, consider the series Line of Duty, and Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Secret State (TV Mini-Series 2012)

Secret State is a television mini-series from Channel 4 in the UK. The mini-series is about a political conspiracy at the highest levels of the British government. The primary character is Tom Dawkins, a Minister of Parliament (MP), who becomes Prime Minister (PM). Dawkins is portrayed by actor Gabriel Byrne. The mini-series aired in 2012, and is about three hours long. This was a solid and entertaining political conspiracy. While somewhat of a thriller, the pace moves steadily but is not rushed. The casting, acting, and cinematography are all outstanding. There is good character depth and development with the Dawkins character, and Byrne completely nailed this role. This mini-series may not be for everyone, though. Without giving away any spoilers, there is a very cynical plot development, with an intended political commentary. If you enjoyed Secret State, some other series to consider are The State Within, State of Play, The Politician’s Wife, and the Politician’s Husband. If you like the actor Gabriel Byrne, consider trying the series Quirke, or the movie I, Anna. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The State Within (TV Mini-Series 2006)

The State Within is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is a political conspiracy thriller concerning a threat to Western democracies. The story locations include Washington D.C. and London. One of the primary characters is the British Ambassador to America, portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs. The mini-series aired in 2006, and is about six hours long.
This was a highly entertaining and recognizably over the top political conspiracy thriller. It does have a slight theatrical movie feel, with some teasing twists. If you enjoyed The State Within, some other conspiracy oriented series to consider are State of Play, The Politician’s Wife, and the Politician’s Husband. If you like actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the series Case Histories.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Worricker Trilogy (TV Movies 2011-2014)

The Worricker Trilogy is a collection of three televisions movies from the BBC, and the individual movie titles are Page Eight, Turks & Caicos, and Salting the Battlefield. The primary character is Johnny Worricker, who is an agent with MI5, the British domestic security service. Worricker winds up on the run and hiding out at various locations worldwide. Worricker is portrayed by actor Bill Nighy. The movies aired in 2011 and 2014, and run about 90 minutes each. As they are billed as movies, the IMDb and Wikipedia links will display Page Eight, which is the first in the trilogy.
Together, each of the stories or movies tells a cohesive story concerning the Worricker character. They were an entertaining view, and I’m a big fan of Bill Nighy, but I did feel that each subsequent story degraded. If you enjoyed The Worricker Trilogy, consider the conspiracy mini-series State of Play, which also features actor Bill Nighy. He also plays a hitman in the dark comedy Wild Target, which also stars Emily Blunt, and Rupert Grint (from Harry Potter).

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The 39 Steps (TV Movie 2008)

The 39 Steps is a television movie from the BBC, and it also aired on PBS in the US. It was adapted from a 1915 novel of the same name, and was also made into a 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock. The story is set on the eve of World War I, and is a murder conspiracy thriller. The main character is portrayed by actor Rupert Penry-Jones. The movie aired in 2008, and is about 90 minutes long.
I viewed the movie when it aired on PBS, and my memory is somewhat rusty. I recall it being an entertaining espionage yarn, and that it had some Hitchcock flair. If you enjoyed The 39 Steps, some other period espionage series to consider are The Game, and The Assets. If you like the actor Rupert Penry-Jones, consider trying the series MI5 / Spooks, Whitechapel, and Silk

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Field of Blood (TV Series 2011-2013)

Field of Blood is television series from the BBC. The series is set in Glasgow, Scotland in the early 1980s. The primary character is Paddy Meehan, a young woman who enters the world of investigative journalism from the ground floor at a newspaper. She becomes intrigued with investigating local murders. The series ran from 2011 to 2013, and there are four episodes that run about an hour each.
This was an entertaining series, with a unique blend of murder investigation, journalism, and the struggle of a young woman dealing with male chauvinism. Without giving away any spoilers, my only criticism was that one of the characters was not maintained throughout the series. In my opinion, there was opportunity for significant character development with that character and the relationship with Paddy. If you enjoyed The Field of Blood, some other series or movies to consider are State of Play.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Place of Execution (TV Mini-Series 2008)

Place of Execution is a television mini-series from ITV, which also aired on PBS in the US. The story follows a journalist who investigates a cold case of the disappearance of a young woman. The journalist is portrayed by actress Juliet Stevenson, and a police detective is portrayed in two different periods of time by actors Lee Ingleby and Philip Jackson. The mini-series aired in 2008, and runs about three hours.
My memory is rusty on this one, as I saw it when it originally aired on PBS, but I recall it being a good production and worthwhile view. It is one that I plan to view again in the future. If you enjoyed Place of Execution, some other series or movies to consider are Waking the Dead. If you like Juliet Stevenson, consider the mini-series The Politician’s Wife, and if you like Lee Ingleby, consider the series George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Partners in Crime (TV Series 2015)

Partners in Crimes is a television television series from the BBC. The series was adapted from Agatha Christie novels and characters Tommy and Tupence. The series is set right after World War II, and both Tommy and Tupence are unchallenged in their daily lives. Tommy’s uncle works for British intelligence, and both jump at the chance to serve their country. The series aired in 2015, and there are six episodes that run about an hour each. The series was not renewed.
This was entertaining series with occasional of unique humor. It does not take itself seriously, and there is fun chemistry between the characters. If you enjoyed Partners in Crime, some other series to consider include Grantchester.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Politician’s Husband (TV Mini-Series 2013)

The Politician’s Husband is a television mini-series from the BBC. While the characters and story are unrelated, it is more or less a reverse twist to another mini-series called The Politician’s Wife. The mini-series tells the story of couple who are both politicians, their corruption, and how her career passes his. The primary characters are portrayed by actor David Tennant and actress Emily Watson. The mini-series aired in 2013, and is about three hours long.
This was an entertaining mini-series, and a worthwhile view. While unrelated in story, I would also recommend viewing the Politician’s Wife, as they are conceptually similar, and equally entertaining. If you enjoyed The Politician’s Husband, some other series to consider trying are The Politician’s Wife, and State of Play. If you like the actor David Tennant, consider trying the series Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Politician’s Wife (TV Mini-Series 1995)

The Politician’s Wife is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series tells the story of a political scandal when an affair is exposed. The primary characters are portrayed by actor Trevor Eve, who plays a member of British parliament, and his wife is portrayed by Juliet Stevenson. The mini-series ran in 1995, and is about three hours long.

This was an entertaining mini-series, and a good view. While unrelated in story, I would also recommend viewing the Politician’s Husband, as they are conceptually similar, and equally entertaining. If you enjoyed The Politician’s Wife, some other series to consider trying are The Politician’s Husband. If you like the actor Trevor Eve, consider trying the series Waking the Dead, and Kidnap & Ransom. If you like the actress Juliet Stevenson, consider trying the series Place of Execution.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Restless (TV Mini-Series 2012)

Restless is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series tells the story of a woman who discovers her mother was a spy for Britain during World War II, and the story rotates between the 1970s and World War II. The daughter is portrayed by Michelle Dockery, and mother is portrayed by both Hayley Atwell and Charlotte Rampling. The mini-series aired in 2012, and is about three hours long. This was a solid and entertaining espionage yarn, with the unique story line of the daughter learning of her mother’s role, and the rotation from the 1970s to World War II. The cast also includes Rufus Sewell (from Zen), James Norton (from Grantchester), and Michael Gambon (from numerous appearances). If you liked Restless, consider the mini-series The Game, and The Assets. If you like actress Hayley Atwell, consider the mini-series Life of Crime. If you like actress Charlotte Rampling, consider the mini-series London Spy and Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Secret Agent (TV Mini-Series 2016)

The Secret Agent is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is set in London during the late 1800s. The main character is Anton Verloc, who owns a shop in London, and is secretly working for the Russian government. Verloc is portrayed by actor Toby Jones, and his wife is portrayed by actress Vicky McClure. The mini-series aired in 2016, and is about three hours long.
This was an average series which I found a bit dull. If you like actress Vicky McClure, consider the series Line of Duty, and Broadchurch.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Secret State (TV Mini-Series 2012)

Secret State is a television mini-series from Channel 4 in the UK. The mini-series is about a political conspiracy at the highest levels of the British government. The primary character is Tom Dawkins, a Minister of Parliament (MP), who becomes Prime Minister (PM). Dawkins is portrayed by actor Gabriel Byrne. The mini-series aired in 2012, and is about three hours long. This was a solid and entertaining political conspiracy. While somewhat of a thriller, the pace moves steadily but is not rushed. The casting, acting, and cinematography are all outstanding. There is good character depth and development with the Dawkins character, and Byrne completely nailed this role. This mini-series may not be for everyone, though. Without giving away any spoilers, there is a very cynical plot development, with an intended political commentary. If you enjoyed Secret State, some other series to consider are The State Within, State of Play, The Politician’s Wife, and the Politician’s Husband. If you like the actor Gabriel Byrne, consider trying the series Quirke, or the movie I, Anna. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The State Within (TV Mini-Series 2006)

The State Within is a television mini-series from the BBC. The mini-series is a political conspiracy thriller concerning a threat to Western democracies. The story locations include Washington D.C. and London. One of the primary characters is the British Ambassador to America, portrayed by actor Jason Isaacs. The mini-series aired in 2006, and is about six hours long.
This was a highly entertaining and recognizably over the top political conspiracy thriller. It does have a slight theatrical movie feel, with some teasing twists. If you enjoyed The State Within, some other conspiracy oriented series to consider are State of Play, The Politician’s Wife, and the Politician’s Husband. If you like actor Jason Isaacs, consider trying the series Case Histories.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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• Wikipedia

Worricker Trilogy (TV Movies 2011-2014)

The Worricker Trilogy is a collection of three televisions movies from the BBC, and the individual movie titles are Page Eight, Turks & Caicos, and Salting the Battlefield. The primary character is Johnny Worricker, who is an agent with MI5, the British domestic security service. Worricker winds up on the run and hiding out at various locations worldwide. Worricker is portrayed by actor Bill Nighy. The movies aired in 2011 and 2014, and run about 90 minutes each. As they are billed as movies, the IMDb and Wikipedia links will display Page Eight, which is the first in the trilogy.
Together, each of the stories or movies tells a cohesive story concerning the Worricker character. They were an entertaining view, and I’m a big fan of Bill Nighy, but I did feel that each subsequent story degraded. If you enjoyed The Worricker Trilogy, consider the conspiracy mini-series State of Play, which also features actor Bill Nighy. He also plays a hitman in the dark comedy Wild Target, which also stars Emily Blunt, and Rupert Grint (from Harry Potter).

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The 39 Steps (TV Movie 2008)

The 39 Steps is a television movie from the BBC, and it also aired on PBS in the US. It was adapted from a 1915 novel of the same name, and was also made into a 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock. The story is set on the eve of World War I, and is a murder conspiracy thriller. The main character is portrayed by actor Rupert Penry-Jones. The movie aired in 2008, and is about 90 minutes long.
I viewed the movie when it aired on PBS, and my memory is somewhat rusty. I recall it being an entertaining espionage yarn, and that it had some Hitchcock flair. If you enjoyed The 39 Steps, some other period espionage series to consider are The Game, and The Assets. If you like the actor Rupert Penry-Jones, consider trying the series MI5 / Spooks, Whitechapel, and Silk

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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A Mind to Kill (TV Series 1994-2004)

This series is from Welsh channel S4C. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Noel Bain, who leads a team solving murders in Wales. Bain is portrayed by Welsh actor Philip Madoc. The series ran from 1994 to 2004, and there are a total of 21 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is an average series. It was a bit dry and slow moving for my taste. If you enjoyed A Mind to Kill, some other similar series include Wycliffe, and Inspector Alleyn Mysteries.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murder in Suburbia (TV Series 2004-2005)

Murder in Suburbia is a television series from ITV. The primary characters are Detective Inspector (DI) Kate “Ash” Ashurst and Detective Sergeant (DS) Emma “Scribbs” Scribbins, a female duo that solves murders in suburban London. Ashurst is portrayed by actress Caroline Catz, and Scribbins is portrayed by actress Lisa Faulker. The series ran from 2004 to 2005, and there are a total of twelve independent stories or cases that run about an hour each.
This was a solid and entertaining series, with some humor injected. There is great acting and chemistry between the characters, and was fun to watch. If you enjoyed Murder in Suburbia, some other series to consider are The Last Detective, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, New Tricks, and the outright comedy Vexed. If you like the actress Caroline Catz, consider the series DCI Banks.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murder Investigation Team (TV Series 2003-2005)

Murder Investigation Team is a television series from ITV. The series follows a team of detectives solving murders in the London area. The series ran from 2003 to 2005, and there are a total of 12 independent stories or cases that run up to 75 minutes each The first series was entertaining and worth a view, but I felt that it degraded in the second series. If you enjoyed Murder Investigation Team, some other series to consider include Trial & Retribution, New Tricks, and Suspects.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Murderland (TV Mini-Series 2009)

Murderland is a television mini-series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Douglas Hain, who was involved with a murder investigation of a mother, which goes unsolved. Several years later, the daughter of the mother contacts him, and they investigate it again together. Hain is portrayed by actor Robbie Coltrane, well know for his role in the Harry Potter films. The mini-series aired in 2009, and is a total of three hours.
There are three parts to the mini-series. It is unique in that each part presents the murder from the point of view of a different character. It was well produced and an enjoyable series. My only criticism was that there is bit too much repetition in the story and scenes as each point of view is shown. But given that, it is still a mini-series that I would recommend for consideration. If you enjoyed Murderland, some other series to consider include Place of Execution. If you like the actor Robbie Coltrane, consider the series Cracker.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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New Blood (TV Series 2016)

New Blood is a television series from the BBC. It as written by Anthony Horowitz, who is widely know for other series listed here, such as Foyle’s War, Injustice, Collision, etc. The two primary characters are a police detective and an investigator in the fraud squad. Both are very new in their jobs and trying to prove themselves, hence the series title. The series aired in 2016, and consists of three cases or stories. The first runs about three hours, and the other two run about two hours each.. This is not a typical British crime and mystery series, nor does it bear any similarity to other series from Anthony Horowitz. This is an action comedy, and resembles what would come from Hollywood, such as Lethal Weapon and Bad Boys. For example, the duo leaps off a building into a pool from twenty stories up, one wants to date the sister of the other, and there is a SUV crash where it rolls over multiple times and they walk away with barely a scratch. As long as you know this before viewing, and this type of posture is something you like, the series is still an enjoyable view. If you enjoyed New Blood, some other series to consider include Babylon, and Hustle.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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New Tricks (TV Series 2003-2015)

New Tricks is a television series from the BBC. The series follows the fictional Unsolved Crime and Open Case Squad (UCOS) of the metropolitan police in London. The squad is lead by a police detective, and there are three retired police detectives who are brought out of retirement as contractors. The series aired from 2003 to 2015, and and there are 107 episodes that run about an hour each. This is an entertaining and light police procedural, which does not take itself too seriously, and has some occasional humor in every episode. For example, in some of the earlier episodes, the ex-wives of Gerry Standing are all friends, which drives him crazy. It is a plot line which I would have wish was more recurring. Gerry Standing is portrayed by actor Dennis Waterman, and careful listeners might pick up the fact that he sings the theme song for the series. If you enjoyed New Tricks, some other series to consider include the Last Detective and Blue Murder. Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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No Offence (TV Series 2015-2018)

No Offence is a television mini-series from British Channel 4. The series focusing on a team of police detectives in Manchester, who are predominantly women. There are numerous cases, but one ongoing case is a serial murder of women with Down’s syndrome. The series ran from 2015 to 2018, and there are 21 episodes running about an hour each.
This was entertaining police procedural with occasional unique humor from a woman's perspective. There is good character development of each, with some thoughtful sub-plots. If you enjoyed No Offence, some other series to consider include Cuffs, and Babylon.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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P.D. James - Death in Holy Orders (TV Mini-Series 2003)

Death in Holy Orders is a television mini-series from the BBC. The character and story are based on a book from author P.D. James. The primary character is Commander Adam Dalgleish, who investigates murder. He is portrayed by actor, Martin Shaw. The mini-series aired in 2003, and is about three hours.
This was a very good and solid mystery drama, and a must for any fans of Martin Shaw. This story concerns the investigation of a mysterious death at a remote religious institute. If you enjoyed Death in Holy Orders, some other series to consider include Vera, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, and Inspector Lewis. If you like the actor Martin Shaw, consider the series George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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P.D. James - The Murder Room (TV Mini-Series 2003)

The Murder Room is a television mini-series from the BBC. The character and story are based on a book from author P.D. James. The primary character is Commander Adam Dalgleish, who investigates murder. He is portrayed by actor, Martin Shaw. The mini-series aired in 2003, and is about three hours.
This was a very good and solid mystery drama, and a must for any fans of Martin Shaw. This story concerns a murder at a museum about famous murders. If you enjoyed The Murder Room, some other series to consider include Vera, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, and Inspector Lewis. If you like the actor Martin Shaw, consider the series George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Paranoid (TV Series 2016)

Paranoid is a television series from ITV. The series follows a team of police detectives who investigate the murder of a physician. The series ran in 2016, and there are a total of episodes that run about 45 minutes each. I have yet to see the series, but plan to watch it in the near future.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Pie in the Sky (TV Series 1994-1997)

Pie in the Sky is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Henry Crabbe. He is a near retirement detective, who opens a restaurant called Pie in the Sky, but keeps getting involved in cases that prevent his retirement. Crabbe is portrayed by actor Richard Griffiths. The series ran from 1994 to 1997, and there are a total of 40 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. This appears to be a fun and lighthearted series. I found it a bit too slow moving for me, so I only watched the first few stories.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Prime Suspect (1991-2006)

Prime Suspect is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Jane Tennison, who leads a team that investigates murders. She is a rising female detective in the ranks, and deals with male chauvinism. She is also obsessive, and develops a problem with alcohol. Tennison is portrayed by actress Helen Mirren. The series was written by Lynda La Plante, who also wrote Above Suspicion, and Trial & Retribution. The series ran from 1991 to 2006, and there are a total of nine independent stories or cases that run form 90 to 180 minutes each. This, quite simply, is a superb series that I have seen more than once. There is a prequel of Prime Suspect in the works from ITV, which will be called Tennison. If you enjoyed Prime Suspect, consider trying the series Cracker, Throne, Luther, Rebus, and Dalziel & Pascoe.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Prime Suspect 1973 (TV Series 2017)

Prime Suspect 1973 is a television series from ITV. When it aired on PBS in America, the series was renamed Prime Suspect: Tennison. Similar to the successful Endeavour prequel to Inspector Morse, Prime Suspect 1973 is a prequel to Prime Suspect, which featured Helen Mirren. Prime Suspect 1937 follows Jane Tennison as a Woman Police Constable (WPC) at the beginning of her career. WPC Tennison is portrayed by actress Stefanie Martini. Coincidentally, Martini portrayed a character in Endeavour. The series ran in 2017, and there are a total of six episodes that run about an hour each. Despite high ratings, it was announced in June 2017 that the series was not renewed for second series.
This was an enjoyable and well produced series. Across the six episodes, there is one major case, as well as several smaller cases. The prequel does a good job of giving glimpses of Tennison early career, and how certain character attributes developed. If you enjoyed Prime Suspect 1973, consider the Endeavour prequel to Inspector Morse, and other retro series, such as George Gently.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Red Riding (TV Series 2009)

Red Riding is a television series from British network Channel 4. The series consists of a series three movies, which are set in 1974, 1980, and 1983. The story centers on police in Yorkshire, and the story interweaves serial murders and police corruption. The series ran in 2009, and consists of three movies that run about 100 minutes each. It’s been a while since I’ve seen this series, but remember it being enjoyable. There’s an extensive cast of well known British actors.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Rebus (TV Series 2006-2007)

Rebus is a television series from ITV. The characters and stories are based on some novels. The two main characters are Detective Inspector (DI) John Rebus, and Detective Sergeant (DS) Siobhan Clarke, who solve murders in Edinburgh, Scotland. Rebus is portrayed by actor Ken Stott, and Clarke is portrayed by actress Claire Price. The series ran from 2006 to 2007, and consists of ten independent stories that run about an hour each. This is a well produced and great series, with superb scripts, acting, and cinematography. Rebus is quite edgy and frequently at odds with his superior, while Clarke sees through this and how Rebus solves cases. This is a series that I have viewed more than once, and would recommend. If you enjoyed Rebus, some other series to consider include Prime Suspect, and Luther. If you like the actor Ken Stott, consider the series The Vice, and Messiah.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Ripper Street (TV Series 2012-2016)

Ripper Street is a television series from the BBC. It is set in London shortly after the “Jack the Ripper” murders, and follows a team of police detectives that investigate other murders. The series ran from 2012 to 2016, and there are 37 independent stories that run about an hour each. I’ve not seen the series, but plan to watch it.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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River (TV Series 2015)

River is a television series from the BBC. The series is set in London. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) John River who is haunted, literally, by his recently deceased partner, Detective Sergeant (DS) Jackie Stevenson. River is portrayed by actor Stellan Skarsgård, and Stevenson is portrayed by actress Nicola Walker. The series ran in 2015, and there were six episodes that run about an hour each. It was not renewed.
The overall premise and setup of the series is very unique. River sees and converses with the “ghost” of his recently deceased partner. The execution was lacking, where the series was average at best. If you like the actor Stellan Skarsgård, consider trying the movie Our Kind of Traitor. If you like the actress Nicola Walker, consider trying the series Unforgotten, Touching Evil, and MI5.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Ruth Rendell Myseries (TV Series 1987-2000)

Ruth Rendell Myseries is a television series from ITV. The series appears to be a difficult one to categorize, as some contain general mysteries, but the majority feature the recurring character Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Reg Wexford. The series ran from 1987 to 2000, and the individual stories or cases run from one to three hours each. I have not seen this series as of yet.
Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Scott & Bailey (TV Series 2011-2015)

Scott & Bailey is a television series from ITV. The two main characters are Detective Constable (DC) Janet Scott and Detective Constable Rachel Bailey, who solve murder and crime in the Manchester area. Scott is portrayed by actress Lesley Sharp, and Bailey is portrayed by actress Suranne Jones. The series ran from 2011 to 2015, and there are 30 independent cases or stores that run about an hour each.
This is a well produced show, and quite popular. I only viewed the first two series, as I felt that it ventured too much into their personal lives for my taste.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Second Sight (TV Series 2000-2001)

Second Sight is a television series from the BBC. The primary character is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Ross Tanner. He is diagnosed with a rare disease and starts to lose his eyesight, while continuing to investigate murders. A female colleague helps him cover up and work around his vision issues. Tanner is portrayed by actor Clive Owen. The series ran from 2000 to 2001, and there are a total of eight independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. It has been a while since I viewed this series, but I recall it being a good, but not great, police procedural with a unique twist. It obviously gets over the top with his ability to hide his eyesight problems.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Shadow Line (TV Mini-Series 2011)

The Shadow Line is a television series from the BBC. The mini-series focuses on Detective Inspector (DI) Jonah Gabriel, who investigates a murder, and Joseph Bede who runs a florist shop as a front for organized crime. Gabriel is portrayed by actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Bede is portrayed by Christopher Eccleston. The mini-series ran in 2011, and is spread across seven episode that run about an hour each. It’s been several years since I saw the series, but recall it being worth a view. If you like actor Christopher Eccleston, consider the series Safe House, Fortitude, Blackout, and Cracker.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Shetland (TV Series 2013-2019+)

Shetland is a television series from BBC Scotland. The stories and characters are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Jimmy Perez, who leads a team investigating murders in the rural Shetland islands of Scotland. Perez is portrayed by actor Douglas Henshall. The series has run since 2013.
The series was outstanding and enjoyable, and one of my favorites. The acting and cinematography are all superb, and one of the standouts is the character of Detective Sergeant (DS) Alison “Tosh” MacIntosh. She is a young and eager detective, and it is fun to watch how Perez guides and develops her. If you enjoyed Shetland, some other series to consider trying include Vera, DCI Banks, and the Suspicions of Mr. Whicher. If you like the actor Douglas Henshall, consider the series Collision, The Silence, and Black Work.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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The Silence (TV Mini-Series 2010)

The Silence is a television series from the BBC. The primary characters are Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Jim Edwards, and his niece Amelia Edwards, who is deaf and recently had a cochlear implant. Amelia witnesses the murder of a police officer, and her uncle investigates. Edwards is portrayed by actor Douglas Henshall, and Edwards is portrayed by actress Genevieve Barr. The series ran in 2010, and consists of four episodes that are one hour each.
The Silence is an average but entertaining series to watch, and unique as one of the primary characters is deaf. Without giving and spoilers, The biggest criticism that this series receives is the abruptness of the ending. If you enjoyed the Silence, some other series to consider trying include Second Sight, which is about a police officer who is losing his eyesight. If you like the actor Douglas Henshall, consider the series Shetland, Collision, and Black Work.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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• Wikipedia

Suspects (TV Series 2014-2015)

Suspects is a television series from UK Channel 5. The series is set in London, and the primary characters are a team of three police detectives who investigate major crimes, including murder. The series has run since 2014, and so far, there are 13 cases or stories that run about an hour each. This is a solid and entertaining series that brings some unique aspects. First, the actors were given facts about the situation or scene, and the dialogue is largely ad-libbed. Second, the cinematography comes across as live action, including using the cameras from interview rooms. And lastly, the cases and stories start immediately, and there is little exposure to the personal lives of the police.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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• Wikipedia

Taggart (TV Series 1983-2010)

Taggart is a television series from Scottish Television (STV). The series is set in Glasgow, and follows of team of detectives solving murders. The series ran from 1983 to 2010, and consists of 109 independent stories or cases that run about an hour each. As the series aired for nearly three decades, the entire cast of characters and actors were all replaced more than once. It should be noted that I have only seen episodes that feature the lead character of DCI Matt Burke, who is not a likable character, but balanced by the character DS Jackie Reid. It is an average show, where similar to Wycliffe, many of the characters are unlikeable and miserable.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

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Thorne (TV Series 2010)

Thorne is a television series from Sky network. The character and stories are based on some novels. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Tom Thorne, who leads a team investigating murders. Thorne is portrayed by actor David Morrissey, well known from the Walking Dead. There was only one series, which ran in 2010, and there are two independent stories or cases that run about 160 minutes each. They are billed more like television movies. These are well produced, which I plan to view again.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021

• Internet Movie Database (IMDb)
• Wikipedia

A Touch of Frost (TV Series 1992-2010)

A Touch of Frost is a television series from ITV. The primary character is Detective Inspector (DI) Jack Frost, who investigates murders in the fictional city of Denton. Frost is a widow, and a “working man’s detective” who demonstrates interest in victims of the crimes and the community. Frost is also opinionated and frequently clashes with his superior, Superintendent Mullett. Frost is portrayed by actor Sir David Jason. The series ran from 1992 to 2010, and there are a total of 42 independent stories or cases that run about 90 minutes each.
This is a superb and enjoyable series from end to end across the entire run, and a series that I have viewed more than once. There is some occasional subtle humor, such as the way that Frost winds up Mullett. If you like A Touch of Frost, consider trying the series George Gently, Midsomer Murders, and Dalziel & Pascoe. If you like the actor David Jason, consider the series Diamond Geezer / Rough Diamond.

Summary updated on February 14, 2021