Strike

Based on the books by Galbraith (pen name of JK Rowling of Harry Potter fame).

The books (as books often can) delve more deeply into characters and backstory. That said, the balanced focus between Strike and Ellacott and their cases, provides a fairly complete picture of two star-crossed would be lovers who navigate their own relationship while solving crimes. It's a grim version of the "will they or won't they" trope made popular in the 80's.

Season 6 (or 4 if you're looking at HBO MAX's different numbering approach as opposed to the original BBC schedule) was well worth the wait. I found the plots much easier to follow, and there were fewer confusing side plots.

The two leads, Tom Burke and Holliday Grainger, are well cast and very believable.

The crime stories, like in the books, have one or two too many twists and turns to follow easily. So this isn't your typical paint-by-the-numbers detective show. You have to be engaged while watching or you'll miss a lot.

My wife finds some of the casework occasionally too grisly, but she is drawn back to Robin's and Cormoran's tortured romance.

The acting is top notch, with only a few brief supporting roles hitting sour notes. The slowly developing background on Strike and Robin is compelling and leaves you anxious for the next episode.

Highly recommend.

I really enjoyed watching this show. Each series within the series had a new mystery bringing about a need for great investigative instinct to solve the mysteries presented. The episodes were complex with twists and turns along the way. Watch this when you have the time to really listen to the dialogue or you will miss a clue or two along the way. At first blush and thereafter this is not a glamourous role for the co-stars, but they have tremendous screen chemistry. The only disappointment was the series was too short. This all takes place in England and shows the real streets of downtown as well as the English countryside. A nice mix of cinematography along the way.

I have just watched 'The Cuckoo's Calling'. This is a great take on the hard on his heels private investigator gets an opportunity story. JK Rowling's content is as well written as a John Grisham/Agatha Christie with the added frisson of cool London locations and culture. I particularly like the casting of Tom Bell as the rough-round-the-edges sleuth and the engaging Holliday Grainger as his ever so capable assistant; they are both so watchable. I look forward to the next series (and for any critics of this series yes I am perfectly happy to overlook any plot holes).

Holliday Grainger lights up the screen. She is one of the best actors I have ever seen. She conveys so many moods and emotions with slightest glance.

Also, I enjoy the story. It is my cup of tea.

I'd already read the book, but Strike as portrayed was more convincing than my own prior vision.

You get a nice range of people in one limited slice of London, as well as a series of puzzles that get solved.

They improve the ending, giving a better excuse for the murderer doing something I can't detail without giving away the plot.