A Dive into the Latest Offerings on the Small Screen
The world of television continues to evolve, offering a diverse range of viewing experiences to suit every taste. From intriguing mysteries to heartwarming romances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s take a look at some of the latest shows making waves and capturing the attention of audiences.
Bookish: A Cosy Crime Drama
Imagine a scene: flocked wallpaper, a vintage transistor radio playing soft jazz, and a woman seemingly dozing on a settee. But beneath the surface of this idyllic picture lies a sinister truth. She’s being dragged to the floor, her stockings disappearing into the shadows. This is the world of “Bookish,” a new cosy crime drama that blends tastefulness with suspense.
In a television landscape increasingly drawn to the gentle side of crime, “Bookish” presents a particularly refined take on the genre. Set in a stylised post-war London, the series follows Gabriel Book, an antiquarian bookshop owner, and his wife, Trottie, who runs the wallpaper shop next door. Played by Mark Gatiss and Polly Walker respectively, the couple finds themselves assisting the police in solving crimes, their motivations shrouded in mystery.
The series begins at a measured pace, introducing viewers to its world through the eyes of Jack, a newcomer to the bookshop. As Jack navigates his new surroundings, he’s drawn into a crime scene that unearths a previously undiscovered plague pit. The dynamic between the amateur sleuths and the police echoes elements of “Sherlock,” a series co-written by Gatiss, suggesting a deliberate attempt to replicate a successful formula.
While the plot incorporates intriguing historical details, the characters are the true heart of the series. Gabriel Book’s mannerisms draw comparisons to David Suchet’s portrayal of Poirot, while Trottie emerges as a captivating figure. Buket Kömür as part-time bookseller Nora adds a spark of wit and energy to the screen.
Untamed: A Brooding Mystery in Yosemite
Shifting gears from the quaint streets of London to the vast landscapes of Yosemite National Park, “Untamed” offers a starkly different viewing experience. This brooding drama, available on Netflix, centres on Kyle Turner, a park special agent played by Eric Bana, and his investigation into a mysterious death.
Written by Mark L Smith and Elle Smith, “Untamed” is visually stunning, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Yosemite wilderness. The series opens with a thrilling climbing scene, setting the stage for a suspenseful narrative. Turner is assigned a rookie agent, Naya Vasquez, played by Lily Santiago, to assist in the investigation, adding a touch of levity to the otherwise serious tone.
The series employs bold visual techniques, including jump cuts and potentially imagined scenarios, to create an atmosphere of intrigue. As Turner delves deeper into the mystery, the park itself seems to reveal its secrets, raising questions about the nature of memory and perception.
Mix Tape: A Nostalgic Romance
“Mix Tape” offers a sentimental journey through time and love. Set in Sheffield and Sydney, the series follows Daniel O’Toole, a music journalist, as he reconnects with his first love, Alison Connor.
The series seamlessly transitions between the present and the past, gradually unveiling the complexities of each character’s backstory. Young Daniel, played by Rory Walton-Smith, and young Alison, played by Florence Hunt, capture the essence of youthful romance.
In a television landscape often dominated by explicit romantic dramas, “Mix Tape” offers a more old-fashioned and sweet, although sometimes cloying, take on the genre. The series evokes a sense of nostalgia with its attention to details like handwritten notes and cassette tapes.
Despite some predictable plot points and dialogue, “Mix Tape” offers subtle insights into the characters’ relationships and personal journeys. The use of music, such as Mental As Anything’s “Live It Up,” effectively underscores the characters’ emotional states.
Other Notable Mentions
- Human (BBC Two): This ambitious co-production explores the science of human evolution, guided by palaeoanthropologist Ella Al-Shamahi.
- Shark! Celebrity Infested Waters (ITVX): A unique show featuring celebrities such as Lucy Punch and Lenny Henry facing off against sharks.
- The Great British Sewing Bee (BBC One): The beloved crafting competition returns with Sara Pascoe as host, alongside judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young.