John Nettles had enough charisma to make every episode worth wathching, even if it's poorly written. Neil Dudgeon (in his first episode as Nettles' replacement DCI)) has none. He's not charismatic or physically attractive, and he kills any witty line he's given. The loving, passionate relationship between he and his wife (Fiona Dolman) isn't believable. It takes me out of the story for that scene - unless Sykes is also in the scene.
The UK is full of excellent actors who can carry a series. Dudgeon is not one of them. I know he's been a successful lead in one or two other series. which baffles me. I continue to watch the series despite him.
The low rating I've given this episode reflects my disappointment in Dudgeon's casting as well as his character's rude, dismissive treatment of Jason Hughes' character, who's oddly portrayed as an idiot. How he went from a capable DS in the previous episode to a wholly inept, even bumbling, investigator was the biggest mystery in this episode. It took away from the shiny guest stars and the antique cars, both of which were superb.
Sykes is the best new character added in the entire series.
The UK is full of excellent actors who can carry a series. Dudgeon is not one of them. I know he's been a successful lead in one or two other series. which baffles me. I continue to watch the series despite him.
The low rating I've given this episode reflects my disappointment in Dudgeon's casting as well as his character's rude, dismissive treatment of Jason Hughes' character, who's oddly portrayed as an idiot. How he went from a capable DS in the previous episode to a wholly inept, even bumbling, investigator was the biggest mystery in this episode. It took away from the shiny guest stars and the antique cars, both of which were superb.
Sykes is the best new character added in the entire series.