Father Brown: Season One

The Father Brown series, inspired by G.K. Chesterton's amateur sleuth stories, consistently delivers intriguing narratives that are sure to satisfy mystery lovers and anglophiles alike. Each episode bursts with lush photography of English country sides and art direction that faithfully recreates the post-war period of World War II. The characters are rife with personality thanks to strong writing and performances, and the classic who-done-it setup never grows stale, always allowing one to uncover clues with the priest-detective without feeling duped by the climatic reveal towards the end. The show's creators politely wink at the audience with Father Brown's frequent run ins with criminal varieties and their schemes, yet the situations keep the suspense moving forward against the backdrop of seemingly quiet parish life, and above all the material remains respectful to the integrity of the main character's first vocation, the priesthood, which is sure to please viewers of faith. Catholic viewers in particular will be satisfied to find their Faith portrayed accurately for the most part and woven into the thematic development of each plot. Not only does the gentle, mild-mannered Father Brown possess a reputable acumen for solving difficult cases, but his motivation for justice is also grounded in his merciful concern for the salvation of souls, including those of the villains. It's great entertainment surprisingly invested with moral and spiritual value made accessible by a warm and compassionate character.