S20E6: Send in the Clowns

S20E6: Send in the Clowns. A boring start, what with no murder, ridiculous circus life, council meeting arguments, and did I mention ugly clowns? And then there's the bloody bloody butcher, dirty pigs and their dead carcasses, one head shoved into a locker, not pleasant! What type of viewer enjoys that? By the way, Jamie's ringtone always startles me. And it's cooler when the detectives drive black cars instead of silver. I am a set director at heart. Ha! Characters were not likable and not interesting--and not acted well either. Plot was flat and splat. Oh well, they can't all be winners.

S20E5: Till Death Do Us Part

S20E5: Till Death Do Us Part. The bride's "girls" were the main distraction of the opening scene so I was relieved when she was quickly "dismissed." It's always more interesting when the first murder happens straightaway. And was this the first time Sarah discovers a body? I can't remember. But it takes me back to all the times Joyce did! Of course this a different type of show than the John Nettles' one--but it is, in fact, THE SAME SHOW, so comparisons are absolutely natural. A brief view of an upchuck added nothing. We learn a bit more about Fluer's personal life which adds more depth to her character, however slight. It's slow going after the first few scenes, but other murders soon after, and some funny bits keep it moving (e.g. I'm not made of money, funny socks, John as a tortoise, etc). John shows a bit of emotion (anger) and Sarah (sadness) too, both noticable due to rarity. The murders themselves were rather clean, but the dead animal might disturb some viewers. Lots of suspects, had me guessing throughout, which was fun. Then an exciting bit with Sarah and well-written reveal to wrap it all up.

S20E4: The Lions of Causton

S20E4: The Lions of Causton. This episode reminded me of how much I miss John Nettles' acting skills, his various facial expressions that convey so much. Neil Dudgeon has types of looks too, but they seem repetitive now. Anyhow, this episode was really dull. The Rugby boys, their loud chants full of tongue wagging, and their naked bums were all part of the gross atmosphere. And even Nick Hendrix exploited his body, which was disappointing. And I miss how the other sidekicks wore looser pants. The end scene was sad, as the love between the killer and his man was evident. Some funny bits made things interesting, but there was nothing else very intriguing. Some lovely scenery including an eye popping cake/chocolate shop. The characters were flat, except maybe for the well acted gran. And the regular cast members were rather stale as well.

S20E3: Drawing Dead

S20E3: Drawing Dead: There's some disturbing imagery with the comic books and frightening masks (and not surprisingly the murders!), but still a curious mystery that kept me interested. Lovely countryside and village exteriors. Personally, I did not like the silly costume and comic fest atmosphere. I see the relationship between John and Jamie as partners growing in each episode. Fluer is an interesting gal- She's cool but could use a bit of warming up. Baby Betty is cute but doesn't add much to the show-she needs a quirky nanny or something, someone who could flirt with Jamie, or someone related to Sarah, to give her character more depth. The last bit with the superhero music / comic page with our dynamic duo was very cute.

S20E2: Death of the Small Coppers

S20E2: Death of the Small Coppers: Such a great episode! Had my attention and had me guessing until the end! Love the references to past episodes! The acting was great, scenery beautiful, and riddles were fun! I don't like the Danish character very much, but in the end, her presence was reasonable enough. Jaime finally got some action--although it was not meant to be!

S20E1: The Ghost of Causton Abbey

S20E1 The Ghost of Causton Abbey

A Good One! I really enjoyed this episode! There's a new doctor in town and she is full of charm and sass-- say hello to Dr. Fleur Perkins! Some may think she's rude cause she's a no holds barred - suffer no fools -- take no prisoners-type of lady-- but I love her! The plot had my attention the entire time--both mysterious and funny! There were excellent performances by Annette Badland (of course!), Michael Byrne, and Elaine Page, each with very interesting characters. The setting of the old Abbey created an intriguing atmosphere, perfect for this October Halloween time. The lovely exterior buildings and interiors are as alive and kicking as ever here at the start of Season 20!