DCI Banks

As usual, British shows get the lower end of the scale especially in this genre. This is very suspenseful, real & compelling.

It is well worth your time.

I'm not quite sure why this isn't rated higher. Though the acting is quite good, the real treasure here are the stories. They take you through the investigations bit by bit, not revealing too much, just like a good novel (of which there are a plethora by the author, Peter Robinson). Frequently there is a twist at the end, always a plus. The characters interact quite well, and as you get to know them, there are even the bits of the subtle humor the English are known for. The visuals are wonderful, showing the charming English countryside and the grittiness of the cities. Perhaps the director would be better served by revealing more of the history of the characters. Having not read any of the numerous novels in the series (though I plan to), I'm unsure what additional material is omitted in the TV versions. It's a shame IMDb features such a scathing review in such prominence (honestly, I couldn't disagree more with the reviewer's complaints - they seem petty). I think this is a very good addition for Masterpiece Theater, always known for quality productions. I sincerely hope the producers will make more.

Excellent English crime drama- I am no fan of Caroline Catz, but she does not manage to drag this down with her constant over-acting - Tomkinson and the rest of the cast provide the necessary gravitas, very subtle humour and at times, despair. At the end of each episode, I am left wanting more - always a good sign! Almost up to the gripping drama standard of "Prime Suspect", which also starred Tomkinson in the last episode, I think.

I can't wait to read the books now, even though DCI Banks will forever be S. Tomkinson in my mind now. Hope they show the entire range of episodes here in New Zealand!

Having read the other reviews here I was quite surprised about the negative ones, and the "too predictable" complaints. I find the cast to be really enjoyable to watch, and the stories are interesting and well written. Sure the chief is a little glum here and there, but overall he seems like a relatively happy fellow, even with the reasonable hope of a love interest. There is a minimum of forensic or medical nonsense that makes it hard for someone who knows a little bit about such things to watch without squirming. The interaction with the new DI in the most recent season is fun, and the character actors are very familiar to those of use who watch a lot of BBC. So for open minded viewers my recommendation is to not be put off by the negative comments.

I only started watching DCI Banks just a few months ago, but once I saw the first show I could not stop watching until I saw the last one. I'm glad I was able to see all the seasons at once because I was so hooked I would not have wanted to wait years to see them all. The cast is great, especially Stephen Tompkinson. His character is so totally honest and charming and he just gets right into you mind and heart. It makes you feel that DCI Banks and Stephen Tompkinson is the same person. The stories are great and the mysteries are real. People actually die in the show and are not all saved just in the nick of time like every other detective show. I obviously highly recommend this show and hope it will be back for a fifth season.