Movies

Channel 4’s answer to Death in Paradise is actually better than the BBC show in almost every way

BBG News

In most Caribbean settings, it’s typically the stunning scenery that steals the show. After all, when one chooses a tropical backdrop, it’s crucial to make a grand impression with pristine white sand beaches and vibrant azure skies.

As a fan, I must say that unlike other cop dramas, Channel 4’s new series, “Get Millie Black,” doesn’t delve into the rich tapestry of Kingston, Jamaica, despite its backdrop. However, what it lacks in immersive cultural exploration, it makes up for in the screen adaptation of Marlon James’ literary passion for Jamaican crime narratives. As a Man Booker prize-winning author, his love for the island is evidently translated onto the screen, providing an engaging viewing experience for those who appreciate crime dramas set in this vibrant and intriguing location.

The scenario involves Tamara Lawrence’s character, Millie Black, who was once a detective with the Metropolitan Police Department. She decides to revisit her homeland to rectify some past issues and restart her career in law enforcement. Though crime is universally prevalent, this relocation offers an insight into aspects of Jamaica that typically remain hidden, operating in obscure regions that are not commonly explored.

Investigating the disappearance of a schoolgirl, we unexpectedly end up in various unusual locations within barely an hour, interacting with an assortment of diverse individuals. These included strip clubs, questionable Jamaican gangs, and a group of transgender women.

Investigating the missing schoolgirl’s case, we find ourselves in unexpected places filled with an unusual cast of characters within a short span of time. This ranged from strip clubs to suspicious Jamaican groups, as well as transgender individuals.

Death in Paradise would never resemble Get Millie Black. One might wonder why such a comparison arises. The only points of similarity between the two series seem to be their shared, vague location, and the unlikely premise that locales like these require British-trained police officers for assistance. Beyond these few commonalities, the shows are starkly dissimilar – yet, comparisons keep cropping up.

The TV show “Death in Paradise,” set on the fictional island of Saint Marie, may not exist in reality, but its popularity remains undeniable. Over the past 14 years, its viewership has consistently been high. This delightful crime series, which could be likened to a TUI advertisement, is one of BBC’s most successful productions. To date, it has been sold to 240 territories worldwide.

If an Agatha Christie-themed evening at your all-inclusive feels too overbearing for you, the series Get Millie Black offers a different, intriguing path. Although it’s darker outside and the sun isn’t as prevalent, the storyline is so captivating that you won’t be able to look away until you reach the end.

Following closely in pursuit of a missing girl named Millie, our guide takes us through the winding alleys and grand avenues of both uptown and downtown Kingston. Her route isn’t direct, but as she dips into various narratives that reveal hidden depths, it illuminates aspects we thought were already clear.

It’s not surprising that Jamaica’s views on the LGBTQ+ community and high crime levels are well-known, but it’s unusual to delve deeper into understanding these realities through personal experiences.

In this play, Millie’s coworker Curtis is a character I’ve rarely encountered – a gay man from Jamaica – depicted on television for the first time. Millie’s sibling, Hibiscus, adds an even deeper understanding to this representation.

Under the city’s storm drains resides Hibiscus and her chosen family, a transgender community often ostracized by society. They face rejection until they are either accepted or meet an unfortunate end, whether through violence or some form of scandal.

The impact wouldn’t be significant if the characters weren’t capable. Chyna McQueen shines as the self-assured yet vulnerable Hibiscus. Moreover, even supporting roles, such as that of club owner Hit Girl (portrayed by actual ’90s dancehall artist Patra), contribute to an atmosphere of authenticity.

However, what truly binds everything is the exceptional performance of Tamara Lawrence as our leading character Millie. While she may seem to occupy a familiar space – the relentless police officer haunted by an unspoken sorrow – it’s her nuanced portrayal that offers something deeper and more intriguing.

In “Get Millie Black,” the protagonist, Black, expresses her emotions candidly through voiceovers. She openly wonders if she could have done better and questions herself, revealing a more vulnerable side. This is unlike the self-assured demeanor we usually see in detectives. What sets this series apart is that it doesn’t seem to cater to any specific audience, making it feel authentic and genuine.

The plot centers on a main cast that is primarily Black, and their accents feel genuine, even if they might be difficult for some viewers to comprehend.

Essentially, it differs significantly from “Death in Paradise” and manages to introduce something novel and thrilling to the crime drama landscape. While one viewer might find Millie Black’s light-hearted murder mystery delightful, another might consider it terrifying – but we’re grateful for its existence!

Get Millie Black is available now on Channel 4.

Read More

2025-03-07 22:07

Previous post Love and Deepspace Everlasting Wish event brings new 5-Star Zayne Memory Card, Wishes, Events and more
Next post Dolly Parton sends off late husband Carl Dean with an emotional new song: ‘If You Hadn’t Been There’