Donovan

OK, so it's late-ish on a Sunday night and I should be in bed in order to gather some sleep for uni tomorrow, but, I flick over to channel 7 and find myself watching the beginning of an intriguing British crime show. I had never heard/seen anything on or about it before, and thinking it was a short (perhaps one hour) series I had just stumbled across, I continued to watch. I must first of all say that the length of this movie (probably about 3 hours) did not in any way destroy, drag out or hinder the effect of the movie. It was thoroughly pleasing. It kept me deeply interested. It felt as if i were watching a condensed version of the series "24". This was due to the fact that the director and script writers tried to throw you around a bit; showed you certain pieces of information in order for you to make your own deduction concerning what ACTUALLY happened. This was very engaging. There was not one dull moment throughout the entire movie. It was beautifully shot, superbly acted, and brilliant executed. I realized now, that my comments which began as a synopsis (see summary line) have digressed into my praise to the entire crew involved; leaving nothing explained. Oh well. You'll have to watch it and see for yourself!

A man is found murdered, the name Donovan is scrawled on the wall in blood. The name relates to retired forensic psychologist Joe Donovan, now a successful author, who is called out of retirement to assist The Police.

Donovan is such an interesting character, beautifully played by the wonderful Tom Conti, he's such a big character, he's unwell, he left under a cloud, his family are somewhat distant.

Strong supporting performances, Samantha Bond and Indira Varma both stand out.

It almost defies being made back in 2004, it still looks pretty sharp, it looks fresh, it also feels very fresh too, it hasn't dated.

I had no idea there was a second series, it seems almost impossible to track down.

9/10.

This is one of the most excellent crime dramas I have ever come across. (And I am an aficionado of these types of series.) It is *brilliantly* acted, written, directed, and produced. The quality of the series is, in short, quite amazing. I only wish that it had continued, but I don't see any indications that it did continue, past these 6 episodes. In any case, if you're a fan of crime dramas, I would definitively recommend this series. It is truly stellar in its class of British excellence. (And let's face it, Britain has some of the finest actors and productions in the world, if not the finest. :D). Thanks to all involved in the production of this truly excellent series!