Murdoch Mysteries - Season 1 - DVD

Content: Toronto in the 1890s. Everywhere in the city the technological awakening is felt, which is also noticeable in the investigative work of the young detective William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson). He uses the latest forensic methods, which is often mockingly commented by his colleagues and viewed with skepticism by his Chief Inspector Brackenried (Thomas Craig). Murdoch only gets support from pathologist Julia Ogden (Hèlène Joy), who is absolutely fascinated by modern science, and from young constable Georg Crabtree (Jonny Harris). Support can use the detective also well, it comes, nevertheless, again and again to mysterious and partly bizarre crimes which one simply cannot clear up with conventional methods...

With "Murdoch Mysteries" comes a real long runner from Canada finally also to us to Germany. 14 seasons with over 220 episodes and some specials have been produced so far since 2008. Based on the series of novels by Maureen Jennings, the series takes the audience back to a time that was literally overrun by scientific and technical progress, which is always very well incorporated into the individual episodes. But not only groundbreaking inventions that characterized this era always play a leading role in the series. Also important personalities of this time are involved in the stories. In the very first episodes, for example, alternating current developer Nikola Tesla and Sherlock Holmes inventor Sir Arthur Conan Doyle drop by. And even royal visitors pay their respects in the course of the first season.

The various filming locations in the Canadian state of Ontario have been perfectly transformed into the late 19th century with the help of a very good set. At the same time, the series uses visual techniques that are more reminiscent of contemporary thrillers like "C.S.I.". In this way, the upheaval that society was in at the time is captured very well. The series is carried by the charismatic Yannick Bisson, who is supported by a likeable ensemble. All this ensures that crime entertainment with a special twist is served here.

Here and there the whole thing seems a little stale, but this is not to be judged negatively. The makers are but visibly concerned to present the inclined audience some as bizarre cases as possible. For example, a corpse falls at the feet of an actress in a theater in the middle of a performance of "Macbeth", while Murdoch has to deal with a ventriloquist in another case. At the same time, socially relevant issues are also addressed. For example, it is made clear in the very second episode that Murdoch, despite his excellent work, should be denied a promotion only because of his faith. But other problems such as racism are also repeatedly addressed in the series.

"Murdoch Mysteries" is exciting, sometimes funny, then again dramatic - and almost always very entertaining. It quickly becomes clear why the series has become such a popular long-running hit in its home country. Let's just hope that the fans in Germany also get to see more seasons! Worth seeing!

Picture + Sound: The picture of the DVD is on a good TV level. The colour scheme is coherent and the contrasts are well mixed. With the image sharpness there are here and there minor point deductions, but even here prevails in the end a fairly positive overall impression. The audio comes in a Dolby Digital 2.0 mix, with the dialogue sounding rather directional. There are a few pretty decent sound effects, but they don't really create any surround moments. All in all, however, there is still a satisfied: good!

Extras: Bonus material has the DVD unfortunately except for the trailer not to offer.

Conclusion: "Murdoch Mysteries" is an exciting crime series from Canada, which often seems like a mixture of "Sherlock Holmes" and "C.S.I." and combines entertaining crime fare with historical elements. The first season of the series long-runner is a successful entry, which after 13 episodes makes you want more. The DVD box is technically on a good TV level, unfortunately there is no bonus material. All in all, nevertheless, quite clearly: recommendable!

An article by Frankfurt-Tipp