The Long Call

I really, really tried to like this more but the boredom of the direction and script defeated me. The stationary camera fails to keep our eyes interested, despite some of the gorgeous scenery. Then there's a stony Ben Aldridge who fails to capture our empathy.

The makers of the show must've known there were problems: the music is far too intrusive and just as tedious as the dreary dialog. Music this gratuitous is usually used to compensate for an unremarkable script or tepid direction, both of which this series possesses.

There are moments of real plot movement here but they are far too rare. You become involved, then are brought back down by some dull religious or backstory dialog that prompts you to fast forward through the dreary talk.

By episode 3 I'd forgotten what the story was all about. The characters are like cardboard. Flat and totally without character. The speech is muffled and toneless. The plot is....don't really know, my brain was too bored to take it in.

What a complete waste of the ITV 9 o'clock slot.

And coming straight after Hollingdon Drive series! (another dreadful waste of time) ITV get your act together.

Having just binged on Shetland (all in 2 weeks), Broadchurch and Hinterland plus a few others ..... this one is again very similar to those just mentioned. Lead man in charge is slightly damaged due to life in general and all with a strong woman being his second. Above titles in order of best first etc.

This series doesn't pick up any speed and just makes it way through the 4 episodes slowly and methodically. Really not much real action .... what you should pay attention to is the writing and the acting. I would unfortunately be placing this show at the end of above list. Watch the others first if you have a chance ... but the scenery is as usual ... awesome.

Casting is very well done, love Juliet Stevenson but major kudos to Anita Dobson .... wow does she shine in the drab and harried portrayal of Grace. Also one character that kept drawing my attention and not sure why. I then checked her name .... Aiofe Hinds .... ahhh Ciaran Hinds daughter another up and coming actor in family.

I read the book first. I'm glad some things were cut, however, some background was glossed over in the series which should have been emphasized.

The lead detective is too low key, even in the book. He lack the spark Vera has. It's like he's muddling through. The book had too much background on the character s private lives. The series does as well, although to a lesser degree. Mystery fans want a clever puzzle. The puzzle MUST be front and centre, not the private lives of the cops.

Yes the first episode is kinda slow but it seems to me as if it's intentional. Each episode peeled back the layers of lies and secrets. Even exposing Matthew to how he hid his own shame and even he had to tearfully acknowledge that. I hope there's a second season where the characters can be further developed.