Trial & Retribution

Mike, the chief detective, is a jerk and a workaholic. In the first few series, we see him trash his first marriage whilst dealing with puzzling cases. He is compelled to settle a large debt in order to end his first marriage. By extorting a perp on the run, he gets the cash needed but Roz, his tall drop-dead gorgeous assistant (played by the luscious Victoria Smurfit), figures it out. 'Prove it!' he snarls. Later, his ex-wife dates a guy who turns out to be a dangerous Looney. If you were Mike, how would you end this problem? Wait til the final frame.

Another 2-part episode stand out: THE LOVERS (S9) involves a nasty serial killer who preys on young couples using a method we saw in the French-Dutch film VANISHED. Mike makes the arrest, but the killer may never see prison. Gripping.

The conflict between Roz & Mike drives many episodes, but they usually get a 'result'. Characterization in the series is superb (script and portrayal). Truly, this lengthy mystery series is one of the top 5 Brit shows ever. Did I mention that Mike is an unlikable weasel?