Death in Paradise (TV Series) Spot the Difference (2011) User Reviews

Quality episode from Series 1

[Sleepin_Dragon · 9/10 · 23 April 2018]

Death in Paradise is, by many, including myself seen as light fluffy viewing, something not to be taken too seriously, but every now and then an episode comes along and totally blows you away. This was such an episode, the humour was measured, aiding the story, not just silliness for no sake, but the story itself is a cracker, clever, unexpected and brilliantly played out. I enjoyed Poole's birthday awkwardness, his discomfort at being centre of attention was well played out. A great guest cast too, Colin Salmon, Sarah Smart, and of course the wonderful Lee Boardman, who was brilliant in this.

Loved this one, intelligent plot, great cast.

Enjoyable series, enjoyable episode!

[Wisewoman62 · 9/10 · 30 December 2018]

Ever since I finished Midsomer Murders, I have been looking for an English detective series of comparable enjoyment. I tried several, and am very pleased to say Death In Paradise more than delivers! Ben Miller does a superb job of playing a staid, stodgy British police Inspector far out of his element on a gorgeous Caribbean island. Most notably he refuses to wear anything less than suit and tie in the 100 degree weather. There are just the right amount of funny moments along with some good mystery in each episode. Many familiar guest stars in each episode, with excellent acting all around, makes each one over too soon.

The running theme throughout Spot The Difference is DI Poole's birthday, which his team finds out about when they overhear a phone conversation with his parents. He is terrible at interpersonal relationships, and so dodges all attempts at celebration, while trying to solve the murder of a man who was killed while handcuffed to him. There are over 900 suspects to choose from.

The end is a double twist I didn't see coming. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Richard

[ygwerin1 · 7/10 · 26 October 2019]

A prisoner is murdered while handcuffed to D. I. Poole, being transferred to the Island.

Dodgy investments, corrupt businessman, worthless land, shafted islanders, contract killer and blackmail.

"5BRM's, sex and money" a tourist sleuth is keen to provide Clues to solve the mystery, some of which prove actually useful.

Mysery guts Richard goes out of his way to be a party pooper for his own celebrations.

Stab

[bevo-13678 · 10/10 · 9 November 2020]

I'm surprised there's anyone left on this island as three of four people are murdered every week

Fine and certainly not a "paradise" murder mystery.

[harrykivi · 6/10 · 21 May 2020]

To get straight to the point, I was disappointed in "Spot the Difference". After seeing very fun, though not great previous entry, I hoped to see something much better. But whatever you do, don't misunderstand me, "Spot the Difference" is a perfectly fine watch, but in terms of the script it is easily the weakest of the first five episodes.

Let's start with good, shall we?

. The production values are wonderful as usual. The direction's gorgeous and the acting's fine as well. Sophie Winkleman, Colin Salmon and Alistair Petrie are good with the a bit dull characters they have.

. Parts of the humor does work in "Spot the Difference" (I liked the moments regarding Poole's birthday party) and there are some clever twists here. The killer's TRUE identity was quite surprising indeed.

But...

. Sarah Smart's Suzie was a very weird and annoying character, who entered the protagonist's life as she wanted to and didn't propel the story along at all. Except for one clue, of course. The subplot about a pickpocket was not necessary in any way as well.

. The script felt unbalanced too. The characters weren't given enough meat to their bones, because the story doesn't get going in the start, and the humor did feel forced at times.

. The solution, while somewhat clever, is not the neatest of the show. In terms of the killer, it was quite easy to figure out who did the deed.

Overall, a fine, while disappointing episode.

6,5/10 HK