Watch Masterpiece: Inspector Lewis

Inspector Lewis is a British mystery-drama television series broadcasted on PBS Masterpiece, first premiered on January 18, 2007. It is a spin-off of the long-running series Inspector Morse, which follows the character of Detective Inspector Robbie Lewis, previously Morse's sergeant, as he investigates different crimes in the university town of Oxford, England.

The series comprises eight seasons, consisting of 33 episodes in total. Each episode is almost two hours long, following a self-contained plot in which the Detective Inspector Lewis and his partner Detective Sergeant James Hathaway investigate murders and other heinous crimes that occur in Oxford. The series shows the detective duo solving intricate cases, involving motives that range from revenge, jealousy, obsession, and greed, among others.

The show's main character, Robbie Lewis, portrayed brilliantly by Kevin Whately, is a deeply empathetic and intelligent detective who has been working in the police force for many years. He is methodical and follows his intuition, which is often correct, in solving complex cases. On the other hand, Hathaway (Laurence Fox), Lewis' partner, is a highly educated and intellectual man who left the church to become a police officer. He assists Lewis and provides a different perspective on the case, recognizing patterns and motivations that other detectives may overlook. The combination of both characters works well, as Lewis is down to earth, and Hathway is more of an analytical type.

The show's main setting, Oxford, brings a unique literary, intellectual, and historical background. Moreover, the picturesque town is also reminiscent of religious and academia architecture, adding a nostalgic appeal to the show. Along with the town's scenic beauty, the series also focuses on the dynamics between the rich, the academics, the town people, and the students. These factors fuel the plots and spawn intense, gripping stories that keep the audience glued to their screens.

The direction and the plotlines of the series are not overly violent or gruesome, and the show's main focus seems to be the relationships between the characters. The show's format deals with very intricate and complex cases that are resolved with thriller-like intrigue and puzzle-solving. The script is intelligent and subtle, maintaining the viewer's attention with its twists and turns while acting feels genuine, and the chemistry between the actors is a treat to watch.

What sets Inspector Lewis apart from other British detective series is its intellectual exploration and philosophical undertones. The series often delves into existentialism, morality, and existential dilemmas that challenge the detective protagonist, bringing a unique dimension to the show. Moreover, the show also explores the central character's interpersonal relationships, touching on deeper themes like fatherhood, loneliness, and the loss of a loved one.

Overall, Inspector Lewis offers an engaging mystery drama with complex characters, intellectual depth, and a stunning setting. It follows a successful format that combines intriguing and complex cases with a touch of character development. The series perfectly balances light-hearted moments with intense drama, leaving the viewer anxiously waiting for more. If you enjoy British mysteries with unique characters and intelligent plotlines, Inspector Lewis is a show that should not be missed.

Masterpiece: Inspector Lewis is a series that is currently running and has 9 seasons (44 episodes). The series first aired on February 18, 2007.