Review:

I love this show, I really, really do, and series V just proves why all over again. Lewis and Hathaway are back – not just in good form, but top form.

I love how unabashedly smart this show is – slinging literary quotes worthy of its Oxford setting on the one hand, while keeping Lewis, blue collar and all, two steps ahead of us all on the other. Lewis’ unassuming and constantly underrated smarts make the perfect foil for Hathaway’s academic cleverness, and their partnership is the heart and soul of this show. Both men are destined to never fit in – Lewis sticks out in Oxford as much as Hathaway stands out on the police force – but together they fit brilliantly well, an odd pair par excellence. The dry repartee between the two of them, carefully rationed and never overdone, is easily my favorite part of this show.

This series in particular delighted me on the character front, in that it weaved some very rich moments in and around the case work. The developments were adroitly handled, well earned, and very, very enjoyable – yet there is still plenty more about these character that I want to know! To the creative team behind this show I say, well played.

And as it almost goes without saying, the mysteries are excellent. Let’s face it, with costume dramas and cozy mysteries, the British just do it better. Lewis doesn’t need flash or bang or slick camera work to keep my attention – it plays it quiet and smart, and delivers reveals I never see coming. Really the only thing I can predict about these stories is the regularity with which dead bodies will turn up.

Gorgeous Oxford scenery, intelligent plotting, the usual parade of wonderful guest stars, dry wit, and well seeded character payoffs – welcome back, Lewis.

Have I mentioned how much I love PBS?

Series V (known as Series IV in the US, don’t ask me why)

Old, Unhappy, Far Off Things

A reunion at Oxford’s remaining all-female college ends with the murder of a prominent student, which may be connected to a similar, decade-old case. Lewis and Hathaway must delve into the mystery of the college and its secrets to find the culprit. Juliet Stevenson (Place of Execution) co-stars.

Wild Justice

Lewis and Hathaway are called in to investigate the poisoning of a bishop, who they suspect was murdered for her progressive views. As their investigation continues, they uncover a twisted maze of motives and retribution. Co-starring Sian Phillips (I, Claudius).

The Mind Has Mountains

When a student is found dead during a clinical drug trial, the motives of an enigmatic professor are questioned. When a second death occurs, Lewis and Hathaway begin to suspect foul play, which the duo must uncover before another death occurs. Douglass Henshall (South Riding, Collision) co-stars.

The Gift of Promise

During an investigation of a brutal bludgeoning, what seems to be a blackmail plot gone wrong turns into a case much more dark and sinister. Co-starring Cherie Lunghi (Secret Diary of a Call Girl).