The Mallorca Files

If you have an aged relative who doesn't like evening TV dramas which are full of sex and violence and swearing and car chases and fight scenes then they will like this. It's got a vibe of other daytime shows such as "Shakespeare and Hathaway" and "Father Brown" with a nod to the 60s Avengers series. 7/10 for being fun but I've only seen episode one. If this descends into the usual BBC PC drivel then I may revise my opinion.

I was less than impressed with the first episode. Of course it combines a number of story/plot cliches, so very much a "been there, done that" vibe. On the whole, that's not a problem for me as I enjoy a mix of heavier and lighter shows/movies. It just seemed like they were trying too hard to make it work at first.

Because some series that have ended up as favorites have had iffy starts, I decided to give it a chance. It will never be in my top 10, but as it found it's pace and rhythm, I began to enjoy it. The characters and story arcs are pretty predictable, but it's not trying to be anything other than what it is.

Certainly the scenery is great and it's a light, enjoyable show.

As others have noticed, this series makes no sense. Why would a british cop be assigned to work with a german cop solving crimes in spain, when it is quite obvious that neither actually speaks more than tourist spanish? And in addition the political backdrop of brexit makes it even more incredible.

The first few episodes are also quite painful. The female lead is certainly suffering from sunburn and all the acting is a bit wooden. But it gets better. And once it gets into its stride it is good fun. No violence. Light comedy. Light romance. Reasonably well handled intrigues. it is easy viewing without being too cliched. Admittedly this is because the entire scenario is so far-fetched, but hey - I enjoyed it.

What better way to sit down an a cold grey December afternoon? The blue skies and easy going plots represent forty five minutes of pure escapism. You'll be disappointed if you're expecting anything gritty or challenging, it isn't. It fits perfectly into the afternoon category, joining Father Brown and Shakespeare and Hathaway, and whilst it doesn't quite reach the standard of the crime fighting clergyman it's still a very good watch.

The two leads are very likeable, good fun, I thought they worked very well together. I'm glad to see a second series is planned for 2020, these afternoon dramas are easy to watch (on catch-up.)

Sour Grapes and Night of the Stag are the best of the episodes. My favourite new show of 2019, they improve with every episode.

This ain't going to win any BAFTAs but it's fun and relaxing. A bit like 'Death in Paradise'.