Grace review: Balmy climate, scenic landscapes – Brighton’s the perfect murder spot

Grace review: Balmy climate, scenic landscapes - Brighton's the perfect murder spot

Grace (ITV1)

As an ardent fan of detective dramas, I find myself utterly captivated by the intricate world of Detective Superintendent Roy Grace in ITV1’s series, “Grace.” The scenic backdrop of Brighton, with its picturesque clifftops and Victorian villas, serves as an enchanting stage for the unfolding of mysteries that would make even Agatha Christie green with envy.

Among the many perks of the South Coast, including its pleasant weather and convenient transportation options, is its picturesque setting that serves as a stunning backdrop for a crime scene or mystery.

In my fervent admiration, I must say that Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, right in his Brighton beat, doesn’t have to navigate the bleak windswept moors or grimy tenements like colleagues such as Vera and Rebus do. Instead, he unravels mysteries amidst the vibrant seaside charm of this coastal city.

In the start of the fourth season, one of his victims was tragically strangled in a scenic clifftop parking lot situated along the South Downs, overlooking the Channel. It’s quite a charming spot for a picnic, but be cautious about visiting on days when it isn’t occupied by malicious gangsters.

In a gracefully cluttered manner, Aileen resided in a Victorian mansion boasting soaring ceilings and polished wooden floors. However, she often found herself troubled by persistent telemarketers, antique collectors knocking at her door, and representatives from the local water company.

You might think the water engineers were the worst, since they’re the ones who tortured Aileen to death before burgling her safe. But in my book, the woman selling timeshares in Spain was the real villain, and not just because she turned out to be the boss of an organised crime family. Cold calls are a real nuisance.

Grace review: Balmy climate, scenic landscapes - Brighton's the perfect murder spot

Grace is a skillfully crafted TV series inspired by Peter James’s captivating novels, enhanced by an exceptionally talented cast. John Simm portrays the character of a diligent detective, who is both meticulous and demanding of his team, yet equally ready to offer praise and encouragement – a stark contrast to the ‘maverick’ leads common in most crime dramas.

In the 1950s, characters such as Gideon and Dixon, who represented the police force, were considered the epitome of their roles. However, these types of figures are no longer popular nowadays.

Grace’s weakness is his anxiety over the memory of his wife, Sandy. She vanished long ago but — though he doesn’t know it — she’s back in Brighton, spying on him and his new girlfriend, Cleo, who is pregnant. Is it Sandy (Clare Calbraith) who left a burning pram outside Grace’s house, or one of his many other enemies?

Regardless of the situation, Grace continues to harbor feelings for Sandy. He urged Aileen’s grief-stricken brother, ‘Don’t dwell on the past – let it pass,’ but his words fell flat, earning him a wry look from his partner, Detective Sergeant Branson (Richie Campbell).

As a devoted admirer, I assume the role of Laura Elphinstone, portraying the sharp-minded and candid DS Bella Moy – a woman who embodies the qualities that could potentially lead her to the position of chief constable. On the other hand, Craig Parkinson breathes life into my on-screen counterpart, DS Norman Potting – a character who, with his crude demeanor and contentious nature, it’s amazing he hasn’t been reassigned to traffic duties.

As a devoted admirer, I found myself immersed in the role of an East End tough guy, hot on the heels of the thief who had swiped my father’s cherished pocket watch.

1. The pursuit concluded beneath London’s thoroughfares in the sewer system, suggesting an ode to Orson Welles reminiscent of The Third Man.

With a balanced mix of action and deduction, private life and public duty, Grace is a cut above.

2024-09-02 01:33