User reviews

After I made the mistake of starting the Inspector Morse series trilogy in timeline order starting with Endeavor, Inspector Morse did not live up to Endeavor- to me. I then started Inspector Lewis and loved that as well. Maybe because Morse was filmed in the 90's and British tv crime dramas presented a different vibe then, but Morse -again to me - did not have the depth of character or range of personality as the character was portrayed in Endeavor or the characters of Lewis and Hathaway in Inspector Lewis. Those bookends to the Morse trilogy are just so fantastic, it's hard to write an opinion that the original material doesn't hold up to the newer series. I fell asleep watching Morse. I'll keep giving it a go bc I really enjoy the premise but it's more for nostalgia than enjoyment at this point.

I watched this series sporadically many years ago and enjoyed them, being a murder-mystery lover, and having read several of Colin Dexter's books. I recently started watching again on Brit Box and am really disappointed. The shows themselves are excellently done; the acting, the production, is all extremely well done and the characters are likable and believable, except, unfortunately for Morse himself. I don't recall, somewhat 30 years after reading the books, if Colin Dexter actually wrote Morse the way he is portrayed in these shows (I'm assuming he did). He is obnoxious, lecherous, rarely follows correct procedure, rarely figures out who is actually guilty, in fact he usually arrests and badgers the wrong person. Lewis usually figures out the correct answer, and does all of the work, while Morse drinks and makes a fool of himself pursuing every woman with a pulse, including suspects. Morse is pretty much a drunken buffoon, and I doubt he would last 5 minutes as a police inspector in real life. It's too bad because his surly clown of a character almost ruins an otherwise exceptional show.

I think most people would agree, whether British or not, that Inspector Morse represents everything that is good about British television. In January 1987, the first television episode of Colin Dexter's intelligent series of novels was broadcast. Inspector Morse was perfect - the beautiful scenery of Oxford, the classic red Jaguar, the classical music and a superb, and at times moving, central performance by the man his co-star Kevin Whately would later describe, after his untimely death in 2002, as Britain's finest screen actor.

Until it finished in 2000, Inspector Morse captivated large audiences, intrigued by its complex plots, the towering performance of John Thaw and its amazing roll call of quality guest actors. The series oozed class from every pore, and will always be the greatest jewel in the magnificent career of the late John Thaw. I really cannot find enough words to explain just how good I think Thaw was in so many of his television and film roles, but Morse was the character in which he proved to television viewers that he was not only versatile but had a rare depth.

The early episodes are certainly my favourites, as they were adapting the existing stories. Later, as they ran out of Dexter's stories, they began writing stories to keep the popular series going. But throughout, we learn more and more about the mysterious, emotionally repressed and rather sad Inspector. Without doubt, this is the greatest modern murder mystery franchise, and the series so many have tried, and failed, to emulate since.

I have all 33 episodes and all the books, and I think this crime drama is without question the best show that ever came on our screens. Each episode has a reason for watching it. They did change the character of Morse completely, but I don't care. I prefer John Thaw's Morse, he is somewhat more likable. The late John Thaw was an outstanding actor, and Inspector Morse is his best role. He is just phenomenal, as is Kevin Whately as Lewis. Morse is a sensitive character here, when he is listening to his classical music with the camera looking into these mysterious blue eyes, it is just extraordinary. The music is just amazing with that clever haunting theme tune, and the recurring excerpts of Mozart and Wagner. Inspector Morse also benefits from consistently superb camera work and exceptionally written scripts. It has also boasted stars such as Clive Swift, Roger Lloyd Pack, Zoe Wannamaker and Paul Freeman. Favourite episode? Has to be Masonic Mysteries, the victim's scream actually made my heart go in my mouth. The final episode is heart-rending, and I couldn't bear to finish the book, because it was so sad. Great stuff! 10/10. Bethany Cox

It is not without reason that Morse is held up as one of the finest television series ever made. It is therefore no wonder that after the tragic death of John Thaw efforts were made to keep the spirit of the show alive through Lewis and then Endeavour. Every single part of this show was perfection itself, the writing, production, music, and of course the impeccable performances of John Thaw and Kevin Whateley.

That quality began in The Dead of Jericho and ended in The Remorseful Day. Reading through the reviews it's great to see how different people love different episodes. Highest point for me was Masonic Mysteries, and I long for the day where de Vries turns up in Endeavour, an incredible episode, other highlights include driven to distraction and Death of the self. The quality is that high generally that you could almost pick any.

There aren't enough superlatives I can throw at this show, how wonderful that the elements, including John Thaw and the iconic Jaguar paved the way for a continuation of Endeavour's story.

Will we ever have such glorious viewing again?

Virtually perfect. 10/10

If you notice that this TV series is on a channel; see it! It has been many years now, since John Thaw brilliantly contributed to this series, but it is just as good today. John Thaw as Inspector Morse is a study in good crime film, outstanding role performances and unique scenes in Oxford. It's no wonder that the spin-off series Lewis came in the cool water of this series. And while Lewis is also good, nothing beats Morse. In the series about Morse we meet a complex and exciting role figure, which John Thaw manages to bring forth the breadth and depth. Everything works well in this series, and some of the best is the ability to entertain while at the same time drama is on its best. I can not do anything else to recommend all new (and old) fans to spend time on this series. You will not regret it, while there is something wary about it too. Such as this is no longer made.

Back in the year of 1987 Oxford started to get a bad reputation, a reputation they never asked for. And what was the reason that the highly acclaimed and known city of Oxford got this reputation? Because of a grumpy old detective by the name of Inspector Morse. This highly cultural, intelligent detective that fancied a good beer and classical music over anything else in life. Brilliantly casted by John Thaw, one of Britains best actors of all time, shows just what British Television is all about. Quality, through and through. The people behind the casting of this series has done a terrific job, the human interaction between the characters in this series is nothing short of brilliant. The relationship between Morse (John Thaw) and Lewis (Kevin Whately) is a relationship that one wonders how works. They seem to be from different planets, but yet they manage to interact in such a way that they always ends up sorting the beans. Morse, a man that always carries around large bills always leaves Lewis to pay the bar bill because the bartender has no change for twenties, and that always patronizes Lewis in such a way that you pity him. But in spite of this slightly awkward relationship, you do feel the compassion that is between the two. Even though they are highly different, they work so well together. Piecing together the pieces of the puzzle like the whole puzzle was nothing but a story book telling them exactly what happened. Morse being a loner, living on his own embracing what he loves the most, classic music he in many ways comes of as socially inapt seems and odd match to the family man Lewis. But as you watch this series, you come to understand that it could not have been in any other way. They are a perfect match, which makes the series move along so perfectly as it does. The way the series illustrates just how great detective work is done, and what personal sacrifices the ones doing such work has to endure just leaves you in awe. If you want good quality television, Inspectore Morse is a first choice by far. Many people get intimidated by the run time that a standard Inspector Morse episode has. But it's the best 100 minutes you can spend in front of the TV if you first are to spend time in front of it. Thank you John Thaw, for the work you and all the others put into Colin Dexter's works. You will always be remembered.

I am sorry, I never had the chance to meet John Thaw. He gave so much to his part as Chief Inspector Morse, and I always admired him for this. By that, I mean, I read a couple of Colin Dexter's novels, and I absolutely found them good - but sorry, not outstanding. But with Thaw came the elegance, personality - not 100% the precise character from the novels, no luckily John Thaw's personal version of Morse. I agree with another comment on this site, the TV version clearly surpasses the original novels.

One of many fantastic things about this TV series is the fact, that the recipe was clear from day one. There is not one really bad episode among - impressive considering the many years, it took to shoot all the episodes. Actually the series almost starts with one of my favourite episodes "Silent World Of Nicholas Quinn" (1986) - and almost ends with one of them "Death Is Now My Neighbour" (1997). But in between we are treated with masterpieces such as "Who Killed Harry Field", "Driven To Distraction", "Decieved By Flight" - and my personal favourite "Death Of The Self". Each of the these episodes show how outstanding an actor John Thaw was - and how good the series really is.

It is my favourite detective series, and it is simply one masterpiece after another.

The setting is great and its very unrealistic to place all these murders in Oxford. To have a great show it has to be possible. The Wire was realistic. These scripts are shallow, yet too cumbersome. We have no idea why

Morse is Morse. Why does he drink so much ? Why is he so solitary. He seems educated but being a cop is kind of a fall down the class cliff. I think Thaw phoned it in with this character. He was much better in Kavanagh QC. The premise was better and so was the writing. I watched that series first and this is inferior. The Endeavour series has better character developement, better supporting characters. It makes you want to see more of them. I just found this to be mostly mediocre.I wont watch a lot of c shows to find a few good episodes. Maybe UK viewers or detective meme folks have different criteria? These are on a par with Agatha Christie type plots.

The up and down moments of Morse's and Lewis's relationship, the heated arguments between Chief Superintendent Strange and Morse, the loud music of opera, the beautiful views of Oxfordshire and the breath taking and thrilling plots is what makes Inspector Morse the greatest British Crime series of all time.

It was a real treat to see the UK as it was in the eighties. The decorations and way of life that were rougher around the edges but far more enjoyable than today. The cases are interesting and clever but Morse is a real dummy of a policeman and the body count goes up when he gets involved because he doesn't catch the bad guy fast enough.

He is also an obnoxious alcoholic as well as a useless policeman. I find it hard to understand why women viewers really loved him and made him a sex symbol of those days. It sort of highlights why good steady kind guys get treated like dirt by the opposite sex and that is why the world is so messed up.

Well, where can one begin. Inspector Morse is remarkable in every way. The characterisation of Morse and Lewis is wonderful. By the end of the series we know so much about Morse. It kind of brings a bonding between the character of Morse and the viewer. The show gives an English cultural feel to the programs which is also reflected by the character of Morse.

I also like the way in which Morse CAN get it wrong. It makes him human. This element is wonderfully executed as it deceives the viewer into following the track of Morse and then slaps you back in the face much to the viewers shock. This adds a fabulous twist and an element of surprise which is hard to find in many detective programs.

There are not many detective programs that carry symbols to represent themselves either. The Jaguar, the pub, the opera, classical music and crosswords. All these objects made the program. I mean, if I saw a red Jaguar parked in town, the first thing that would come to my head would be Morse.

I also believe that John Thaw and Kevin Whatley should be given so much credit for the way in which they have brought these characters to life. They came across so convincingly and played so well off of each other. A truly wonderful experience.

I would also like to take this opportunity to say that John Thaw was a fine and wonderful actor who will be missed greatly.

This series was distinguished by its consistent quality of acting and plausible plots. The sometimes acid interaction that graced the relationship between Morse and Lewis made their mutual respect more believable. Morse's steadfast refusal to reveal his given name added good continuity to the dialogue from episode to episode.

With the passing of John Thaw, I would like to see a follow-on series starring Kevin Whatley as an Inspector Lewis, with many of the previous regulars carried over.

The theme music by Barrington Phelong has one of those haunting melodies that just won't leave my head.

After following Inspector Morse as a teen and even now after watching episodes again again, I still find myself taken with how well the programme was devised, written, produced, and acted - every time I watch an episode I take a fresh view on how good it was and is. I've come across a website which is the 'Official' site for all fans of this incredible drama - http://www.morsetv.com - it really is a site all those who want to find out that little bit more about the programme and man 'Morse'. There is loads of information with interesting video clip insights from John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Colin Dexter and Ted Childs about the characters from their own personal perspective - this is a great site, highly recommended.

Unfortunately, I have seen Endeavour (the series showcasing Morse as he starts out on the police force) and Inspector Lewis (the continuation of Lewis' storyline) before I started watching this story. So right away I'm disappointed in DI Morse's mannerisms in this series. He's too sloppy so unless something happened to Morse between the two series, there's a disconnect that's noticeable.

I know that Morse has a habit of being brash at times (in Endeavour), but here he's very boorish and obstinate. He stomps around, practically bullies the witnesses, and I'm sorry, seems clueless most of the time. Other characters in other series make Morse out to be a near-genius, but here, he's lucky to solve a case. And his habit of trying to hook up with suspects is too much for me.

**Edit: By Season 4, Morse is starting to act like a more mature cop. Less all over the place, less stumbling around. It is helping for the show to grow on me.

And I don't know if it's because it was filmed in the 80s, but the acting feels so cheesy and over the top most of the time. Maybe it isn't the acting but the filming style. I wonder how different it would look if it were filmed today.

**Edit: To me, the acting by most of the characters feels over-the-top. Maybe that's why I'm not a fan of it.

Admittedly, I'm only a few episodes into the first series so far and I do plan on watching all episodes. I just hope that it gets better as it goes. I will update my review as I feel I need as the series continues.

**Edit: By Season 6, the vibe and acting are more like how I prefer. Not over the top, silly acting. Morse isn't stumbling around and actually appears like he knows what he's doing.

First off Inspector Lewis is one of my all time favorite series Endeavor is a close second. Inspector Morse is my least favorite of the 3 adaptions ONLY because of the time period it was produced in. I would absolutely love to see the Inspector Morse portion of the Colin Dexter series updated and redone. That being said I love John Thaw and Kevin Whately my opinion has nothing to do with the acting it's the 1980's style in which the stories are portrayed. I watch these in chronological order so the installment of Inspector Morse following Endeavor there's a definite disconnect but Inspector Lewis is definitely in the same caliber as Endeavor. Still If you're a fan of the Colin Dexter series Inspector Morse is a must see.

Inspector Morse has all the characteristics of an excellent detective series - great writing and plot lines, character development that keeps you interested in the persons as well as the stories, talented acting, and a great background in the city of Oxford.

Based on a series of very good books by Colin Dexter, the screen writers allowed the Morse character to come alive through the acting skills of John Thaw. Through the series you learn more about Morse and his life, as well as that of his sidekick Lewis.

Morse, a man who enjoys his whisky and is unlucky in love in an understated way, is a character who you root for and know will solve the crime in the end - no matter what twists and turns he has to go through.

So spend some time with Morse, as well as the later prequel "Endeavour" (Morse's first name), and it will be time well spent.

The best recurring character in the series was Max. I was sorry to see him go at the end of the second series. He came across as a genuinely smart guy who had Morse's number. Lewis was also great. Morse remains consistently pretentious throughout, but the endearing rough edges to his character seen in earlier episodes were smoothed off in later series and he became a very dull politically correct nonentity.

My ratings are: Series 1: 8.7; Series 2: 9.0; Series 3: 8.0; Series 4: 8.0; Series 5: 5.6; Series 6: 5.8; Series 7: 5.0; I shan't be bothering with the remaining episodes.

My favourite episodes: The Wolvercote Tongue, The Settling of the Sun, The Secret of Bay 5B, Masonic Mysteries and Dead on Time.

The episodes I disliked: Fat Chance, Happy Families, Cherubim & Seraphim, The Day of the Devil and Twilight of the Gods.

I watched this growing up and recently rewatched it, I love how classically British this is, it reminds me of being a child with my parents eating biscuits and drinking tea when it was on. Oxford builds the perfect backdrop and as dated as some things may seem, it was of it's time and I appreciate that. I miss old tech free detective shows like this.

I can't watch the final episode still, I avoided it when I was young as it made me feel sad, got the book but didn't want to read it for the same reason. I'll get there one day.

The only shows that are nearly as good are Vera and Shetland, in case anyone is looking for inspiration.

This is smart, thoughtful television. The stories unravel soul motives and desires that remind me of P.D. James novels. The relationship between Inspector and Sargent Lewis is great to watch unfold. Then to watch Lewis as Inspector and Sargent Hathaway ... it just gets better. It adds to the story that they are currently making the prequel series of Morse as a young man. Developing what we see as the mature Morse, it's the best yet. The new series set in the 1960's Oxford are visually beautiful to watch. The filming has also significantly improved over the early Morse shows. For Americans who just can't watch one more predictable episode of Law & Order, you should check this out.

I love classic detective stories and greatly enjoy both the Poirot and Miss Marple television series. I heard a great deal about the "Inspector Morse" series and was really looking forward to watching it when I got the BritBox subscription on AmazonPrime. However, the series was a huge letdown and I gave it up midway through the fifth episode.

I haven't read the books by Colin Dexter and am unsure how faithfully the TV series represents the character of Morse. But in the series Morse is thoroughly unlikable, a drunkard and a relentless womanizer. Worse than that, he gets involved with multiple women who are suspects in the cases he is working on. That kind of thing would have been completely unacceptable even 50-60 years ago, and in real life any British police inspector discovered doing what Morse does would have quickly lost his job. The plots are convoluted, rushed and lack any likable characters (in contrast with the aforementioned Miss Marple and Poirot series). Morse himself certainly doesn't qualify as likable. The only reasonably sympathetic regular character is Lewis but his presence is not enough to save the show. Having the series set in Oxford and having it deal with the lives of Oxford academics and British aristocrats is not enough to make it sophisticated. Instead the series comes off as snobbish and pretentious, and already feels quite dated.

Finally, the series violates the cardinal rule of the mystery genre: at the end the "who done it" has to be explained, clearly, carefully and in detail. The "Morse" episodes consistently fail this principle. While the main culprit (or culprits) does get revealed, that always happens in a rushed way, often with Morse getting a sudden spark of inspiration from some offhand remark of Lewis. However, that's all that happens, and the details of who did what, why and which order are not given. With the plots being as confusing and convoluted as they are, the viewer is left in a dazed state after an episode is over, not really understanding what it was all about.

Overall, a hard pass.