Ellis

A nice way to spend an evening. The main character, DCI Ellis doesn't suffer fools gladly, but she can also be empathetic; she's also enigmatic and has some past baggage that is slowly revealed while she solves mysteries around the country. Since every episode takes place in a new town, the audience gets to meet a fresh cast and setting - usually one where the motivations or competence of the local force are in question. The mysteries are intriguing and I like the cinematography, it really draws you in.

It's funny that other commentators are upset by literally 2 minutes of an hour and half show - but one that's actually nuanced and balanced.

I'm surprised over the many negative reviews and comments about the "angry black woman," but I can forgive the reviewers, because this is exactly how I felt when I first watched Vera. She was a grumpy old woman, always yelling at her staff. Now, after many years, I'm addicted. If you like detectives in the style of Vera, Van der Valk, a super grumpy smart detectives with lots of quirks and sly humor, you'll like this show.... it has a lot of similarities. Give it a chance, I think it will grow on us.

Every season I worry that Vera will be canceled. She is in every scene, and given her age this could be challenging. Wish they would look to Slow Horses and give all the very interesting, smart, secondary characters more screen time.

This wonderful actress has a mystical aura about her. She captures so many different and relatable emotions throughout each episode. I also greatly appreciate the different story lines. A bit different from other crime series (which I so love BRIT series and binge on often).

The two primary actors have also created a lovely balance of experience and yearning for more experience. She shows what a great mentor should look like and be like in many ways, yet open to her own journey of amassing knowledge. LOVE it. Then the various locations offer a glimpse into UK life and the scenery is so enjoyable as well. A series should make you want to go there for yourself.

DCI Ellis is teamed up with DS Harper to investigate failing Police operations, after a frosty introduction, the pair discover a common ground, and prove to be a formidable force.

We all know what Channel Five dramas can be like, from the torture of Anne Boleyn, to the high quality of Dalgliesh, so you can be forgiven for having moderate expectations. This is one of the channel's best offerings.

Will we ever get shows as good as Endeavour, Morse, Vera, Foyle's War etc, the hunt goes on, Ellis isn't on those levels, but it's still a quality drama. I can see this running for some time.

Sharon D Clarke is excellent as the title character, she possesses a lot of presence and charisma, I adore her delivery. Harper grew on me as time went on, the pair work so well together.

Channel Five, just one suggestion, move it to a Sunday night, as this is perfect Sunday evening viewing.

8/10.

Ellis has strong lead characters and complicated mysteries. I have seen every murder mystery I can get my hands on and I know the formula, and Ellis refreshingly does not follow a formula. I didn't guess the endings, and it didn't have the exact same usual suspects who turn up on every series. It has already been great watching Ellis and Harper's characters develop over just three episodes. Hopefully the first three will lead to another season.

Sharon D. Clarke's work is new to me, as I'm not British or a theater fan, but I'm looking through her filmography to find episodes of other shows she's been on.