Series You Missed: British TV Crimes You Should Watch Again

Are you a fan of classic British TV shows and intrigued by the suspense and mystery of crime dramas? If so, you might have missed a few gems that are worth revisiting. In this article, we will explore some of the overlooked British crime series that are filled with clever plots, interesting characters, and intense emotional journeys, starting with Early Edition.

The Appeal of Early Edition

Early Edition is a fantastic series that introduces the concept of receiving news before it happens, allowing the protagonist to alter outcomes. This concept is not only unique but also extremely thought-provoking. The show successfully blends elements of suspense, drama, and mystery in a way that captures the viewer's imagination. It's a series that deserves a second watch, as the intricate storylines and thoughtfully crafted characters make for a captivating viewing experience.

Retro Boredom: The Prisoner (1967-1968)

Next up, we have The Prisoner, a show that took surrealist television to a completely different level. Originally airing from 1967 to 1968, this series, starring Patrick McGoohan, is wonderfully bizarre and intriguing. The show delves into the life of a man who is mysteriously transported to an idyllic, seemingly perfect resort where everyone seems to know his secret, forcing him to question reality and his own identity. The show's surreal elements and thought-provoking themes make it a must-watch for any fan of unconventional storytelling.

Max Headroom: The Intelligent Series That Failed to Resonate

But before we move on to some lesser-known gems, let’s not forget Max Headroom. Airborne from 1987 to 1988, this series was known for its innovative use of computer-generated imagery and its sharp, intelligent writing. It's often said that Max Headroom was cancelled because it was too intelligent for the mass market, which only adds to its cult status. The show combines science fiction with a dystopian atmosphere, making it a fascinating piece of television history.

Lost Detective Shows: The ‘70s Detective Series Banacek

One of the standout detective series from the 1970s is Banacek. This American detective series, which aired as part of the NBC "Mystery Movie" rotation from 1972 to 1974, is a gripping thriller that showcases the unique detective, Thomas Banacek. Known for his high-flying lifestyle in a luxury Boston apartment, Banacek takes on mysterious and impossible cases, such as missing multi-ton sculptures. The show is a testament to the kind of intriguing mystery that only the 1970s could produce. Unfortunately, Banacek is not available for streaming or physical media, but if you ever find a dedicated collector selling the episodes, it's worth the investment.

Classic British Criminology: Sherlock Holmes (1965/1968)

Turning to classic British shows, let's start with Sherlock Holmes (1965/1968). This series, starring the legendary actor Douglas Wilmer, brings the beloved detective to life with brilliant authenticity. Wilmer's portrayal of Holmes is engaging and well-acted, offering a fresh take on the character. These series are not only captivating but also essential for fans of mystery and detective stories.

A Superior Adaptation: Father Brown (1974)

Father Brown (1974) is another standout show that elevates its source material. These episodes offer more developed plots and are based on stories by G.K. Chesterton. Kenneth More is effectively cast as the titular character, making for a compelling viewing experience. The deeper exploration of the mysteries and the well-crafted stories make this series a must-watch for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking and engaging crime dramas.

The Definitive Maigret (1960-1963)

Maigret (1960-1963) is a series that has been largely forgotten, but it deserves to be rediscovered. For decades, these episodes were thought to be lost after their initial broadcast. Thanks to recent efforts to restore and preserve the series, these episodes have finally been recovered and made available once again. Rupert Davies' portrayal of Jules Maigret is widely regarded as the definitive version, and I completely agree. This series is a standout in its genre and a true masterpiece of television.

Literate and Engaging: Lord Peter Wimsey (1972-1975)

Lastly, let's not forget Lord Peter Wimsey (1972-1975). This series, based on the work of Dorothy L. Sayers, stars Ian Carmichael as the gentleman sleuth. Carmichael became incredibly popular in this series, with five different adaptations each consisting of several episodes. The stories are literate, engaging, and full of richly developed characters. If you're looking for an intelligent and well-crafted crime series, this is definitely one to add to your must-watch list.

Thanks for reading. Whether you're a fan of classic British shows or just curious to uncover some hidden gems, these series are definitely worth revisiting. Whether you're a fan of Early Edition, The Prisoner, Banacek, Sherlock Holmes, Father Brown, Maigret, or Lord Peter Wimsey, this list is sure to satisfy your cravings for suspense and quality storytelling.