Ellis

We are used to many police shows but this one is quite different. From the first episode, this series shows how issues in the police force (racism, sexism and bullying etc) plays out. I find it very telling by some of the other reviews but as a POC I believe this series has great potential. Yes it is not overly acted and could need a bit more in terms of drama but I was glued to my screen ( laptop and then finished it off now ). The first episode does have some twists but nothing overly major. People's discomfort with racism in the episode is quite funny because such things whiles they happen regularly, make others uncomfortable. I find it touched many subjects and subsequent episodes will hopefully look at other issues. I'm extremely excited about episode 2 and fingers crossed it gets better.

And am blown away! A cracking good yarn and strong female lead, the first episode left me wanting more. Reminds me a bit of Vera; both leads have traits in common but are enough different to be interesting. Ellis brings to the role a robustness, a kind of bold but gentle grace and dignity lacking in most police procedural leads out there, a combination I was looking for but one which is sadly rare. The development of her character both at the professional and personal will be interesting. I hope her supporting actors prove worthy and equally strong and intelligent in future episodes. I rate this a solid 9 and if follow up episodes meet this standard a 10!

This wonderful actress has a mystical aura about her. She captures so many different and relatable emotions throughout each episode. I also greatly appreciate the different story lines. A bit different from other crime series (which I so love BRIT series and binge on often).

The two primary actors have also created a lovely balance of experience and yearning for more experience. She shows what a great mentor should look like and be like in many ways, yet open to her own journey of amassing knowledge. LOVE it. Then the various locations offer a glimpse into UK life and the scenery is so enjoyable as well. A series should make you want to go there for yourself.

I'd like to say this is the original good cop/bad cop series, but it's not. On initial viewing, I didn't find this series particularly attention grabbing. With further viewing, Ellis did began to grow on me. Ellis and Harper do make a good team. Ellis seems a bit too hard-nosed, but eventually warms up to become much more likable. Harper, played by the ever quirky Andrew Gower, definitely makes this a show worth watching. Since first seeing him on Murdoch Mysteries, playing Sherlock Holmes in the oddest way possible, his talent has never ceased to amaze. Give this series a chance. You will enjoy.

DCI Ellis is teamed up with DS Harper to investigate failing Police operations, after a frosty introduction, the pair discover a common ground, and prove to be a formidable force.

We all know what Channel Five dramas can be like, from the torture of Anne Boleyn, to the high quality of Dalgliesh, so you can be forgiven for having moderate expectations. This is one of the channel's best offerings.

Will we ever get shows as good as Endeavour, Morse, Vera, Foyle's War etc, the hunt goes on, Ellis isn't on those levels, but it's still a quality drama. I can see this running for some time.

Sharon D Clarke is excellent as the title character, she possesses a lot of presence and charisma, I adore her delivery. Harper grew on me as time went on, the pair work so well together.

Channel Five, just one suggestion, move it to a Sunday night, as this is perfect Sunday evening viewing.

8/10.