User reviews

What a relief to have a good detective series back on the tele that doesn't rely on bad language, bad acting, shock topics and model style looks of the main character. Blenda Blethyn, with her "pet"s and "luv"s is just delightful as the down to earth, emotionally damaged but very clever detective Vera. She allows herself to be stripped back to basics, dressed in frumpy clothes, often shot at unflattering angles, and by doing so "becomes" Vera. As for Vera herself, what a woman to work with! I don't think I'd last long if I were poor old Kenny but the fact that everyone does stick around and work well together getting good results shows that Vera, although in all appearances is so ordinary, she really is extraordinary.

I recently binge watched several series of Vera. I feel the review I give has to cover not just the lead actors but the support cast. I love Brenda Blethyn and Kenny Doughty and the chemistry between them the interactions between the rest of the squad but I would also like to mention the weekly guest cast. These are actors who don't always have a huge portfolio of starring work and yet some (heck most) of the performances are amazing. The episode I have just watched the confession of the father to killing his son was heart wrenching and having watched several series in a row the quality never fails. Credit where it's due I say pet!

This series portrays every other intimate relationship as being inter-racial, a number far greater than actually occurs in society. And usually these couples are notably mismatched. It has reached the point that is has become so distracting that it compromises my ability to enjoy the series. Is it really necessary for a series of this quality to worship at the altar of Wokeness?

The writers of Vera set themselves dizzyingly high standards. Every episode of this grassroots detective series is like a movie, with complex characters and intricate plots. But it is always clear what is happening and who is who. The creators manage to make the most of the north of England landscape and old buildings. Of course, Brenda Blethyn as Detective Vera Stanhope has got the X factor in spades. She's riveting. There is crisp delivery of her admittedly excellent lines, her intelligence and best of all, a grandmotherly aura that means suspects grossly underestimate her abilities. Love the many inserts of humour. But the tone of the drama is never patronising of its audience or overly soppy or obvious. The scriptwriters must be a crack team, and they obviously love the character. I only dip in and out of this series but it never lets you down in terms of giving you a good story, that is well told.

Just think of all the extremely well written, well made crime series from the UK and add this one to the list! Brenda Blethyln brings to life the whip smart, eccentric, disheveled inspector Vera. A bit like a female Columbo. Filmed in the desolate, spooky, dreary NE part of England that itself makes for the perfect backdrop for murder mysteries. A well rounded team of supporting actors bring it home. I only wish I'd found it earlier, but stumbling upon it in its sixth season makes for some wonderful evenings of binge watching! Not too many strong female DI leads are out there. Brenda Blethyln carries her part seemingly effortlessly. She's absolutely in the same class as Joan Hickson. One series not to be missed.

Despite the unrealistic premise of a woman of Vera's age still working for the police, this has been one of my favourite ever TV series, up until recently.

Cannot put my finger on it, but with recent episodes, I've not felt involved, and have found them an absolute slog to get through.

The actors are the same for the most part , so the fault can only lie with the scriptwriters.

Perhaps it's just come to the end of its life, and there are no decent new scenarios that can be brought in, although I can think of a few that haven't been touched, and that would make different, interesting, storylines.

Such a shame, and I hope it can recover, so if it is nearing the end, it can go out in style, rather than people just being glad to see the back of it.

Solid show. Good acting. Realistic. I have no real complaints. Not my cup of tea as far as too dark and depressing, but that is a purely personal opinion and does not negate the show's quality. I just can't watch much of it.

One quibble though:

There is a FANTASTIC new invention called colors. The entire series looks like it is shot in a poorly lit backyard shed. Please, for the love of GOD! Use some colors and light! LOL

Like all public TV series like this, you get clues, and it's so much fun trying to figure out who did it, and failing. Underneath her cold exterior, Vera has a heart of gold. Great acting and beautiful locations.

/refers to all seasons and episodes/

Vera is one of the best British crime dramas on television. Starring Brenda Blethyn as DCI Vera Stanhope, the show is smart, emotional, and very different from your usual detective series. Vera is not your typical lead - she's a middle-aged woman who dresses plainly, often grumpy and blunt, uses old-school words in communication, but full of compassion. Her character is deep and believable, which makes her easy to connect with.

The Series is set in the beautiful North East of England. The filming locations, including Newcastle and Northumberland, are stunning and add a lot to the show. The scenery, especially the moors and coastline, really brings the stories to life. Each episode is like a mini-movie, with strong plots and well-developed characters. The mysteries are clever and often linked to personal histories, rather than relying on violence or shock.

Brenda Blethyn gives a brilliant performance as Vera. At first, her accent didn't quite fit, but she soon grew into the role, making it her own. She's been supported by great cast members over the years. I was sad to see David Leon leave the show, as his character had a touching bond with Vera - part friendship, part mother-son relationship. As for Kenny Doughty, who replaced him, it took some time to get used to him.

One of the best things about Vera is that it focuses on the case, not the detectives' love lives or unnecessary drama. It's a show that trusts its viewers to follow complex stories and enjoy the slow build. The writing is thoughtful, and although some early episodes were less polished, the Series has only improved with time.

Vera stands out from e.g. American police shows, which often feel too fast-paced and full of personal dramas. This show takes its time, with more realistic characters and heartfelt moments. That's probably why it lasted for 14 seasons.

Some minor issues do pop up, like too many background extras or the occasional less convincing accent, but overall, Vera is a gem. It's smart, moving, and keeps you guessing. If you enjoy well-written mysteries with real heart, give it a try. Just don't give up after the first episode - it only gets better.

"Only" 8 points from me as I liked e.g. Endeavour or Line of Duty a bit more.

I agree with those who write that this is an entertaining series, with beautiful sceneries around Newcastle and that the personalities are all interesting and even funny, in particular Vera herself.

However, after having watched some episodes I found the plots predictable. There are always a number of suspects and the one that is the most suspect in the beginning will not turn out to be the true suspect. The twists at the very end is repeated in every episode.

Apart from this, this series is definitely worthwhile watching.