Dalgliesh

Peter McGinn

I tend to give British mystery series a try just because so many of them are excellent. So I gave Dalgliesh a look. It is a fine show. The lead character is quiet and somewhat withdrawn due to a tragedy in his life a year earlier. I didn’t immediately take to him as I have with other detective team leaders like Vera or even DCI Banks. He came across at times as indecisive or passive. His assistant is a real jerk and hurt the investigation through his petty selfishness, but except for glaring at him at one point, Dalgliesh seemed unable to take control. Suspects and witnesses also showed no respect for him during interviews and conversations. Some of this weakness or passive attitude might seem exaggerated, however, again due to his dealing with his ongoing grief. And Dalgliesh may well grow on me, so if the show is extended for another season I will give it another look.

"Dalgliesh" cosplay's a 1970's British detective drama. Whilst all the trappings of a 70's detective drama are on show from bell bottoms to collars you could serve a modest meal off of, the attitudes displayed, are very 21st century liberal "woke" UK. The results a series that's not unwatchable but simply doesn't feel convincing. The problem comes in the form of the usual, DEI nonsense, that simply did not exist in that time period. Its akin to making a series about Henry VIII, having him wear a digital watch, whilst celebrating pride day. Good luck with that. Looking beyond this shortcoming the lead actor does a great job in the role of Dalgliesh. The softly spoken, thoughtful, man of letters, who just happens to be a top notch sleuth, is there in spades. As for the crime tales, each of which span two episodes, I found them a mixed bag. Some were compelling, others were your standard "who dun-nit" fare. One two episode set felt a little incomplete and could have done with a little more explanation. In summary, excellent acting from the lead, he truly owns this role "but" the setting of the 1970's feels anachronistic, in the context of the attitudes displayed, by the characters.The crime stories are a mixed bag, that range from excellent to mediocre. Worth a look if you enjoy Brit crime drama.