McDonald & Dodds

Peter McGinn

I like to give new British mystery shows a try since they are often among the best out there. I was drawn to this show for two reasons. One is that I have always liked Jason Watkins, one of the endless great character actors Britain produces. The other was that the plot description seemed intriguing. The first long episode saw the two leads getting together as a team, getting to know each other’s strengths and quirks. The idea is that they will balance each other out and work well together. After a clunky beginning that is what happens. The mystery plots are intricate enough to warrant the longer episodes. In the two shows so far - don’t know if more are planned - there wasn’t much done with the other members of the investigative team, so that would be a good place to go more episodes are planned. I would certainly watch them if they are made. Okay, season 2 has come out and it is more of the same. Likes many shows, it follows a formula of sorts. For example, their boss always tries to get them to close a case quickly rather than right, and the suspects are always cocky in their attitude, underestimating the team, especially Dodds. They do develop the other members of the investigative team, so that was good. One of the plots was a bit of a dud to me, but the others were imaginative. There are just three shows in this series, but like before they are 90 minutes long, so it is like having twice as many of the normal 45 minute episodes.