‘The Doctor Blake Mysteries’ might not top every “best-of” list, but this captivating series consistently delivers, evolving into a standout detective drama in recent television. What truly sets it apart is its unique Australian backdrop, offering a refreshing change from the usual English or American settings prevalent in the genre. ‘The Doctor Blake Mysteries’ carves its own niche as a compelling and well-crafted show. It’s a hidden gem that deserves far more attention than its somewhat buried scheduling has allowed, often relegated to daytime slots on channels that don’t always capture a primetime audience. This is a series that consistently outshines many of its early afternoon counterparts.
While the initial episodes of ‘The Doctor Blake Mysteries’ laid a solid foundation, it’s with episodes like “Brotherly Love” from Season 1 that the series truly hits its stride. In “Brotherly Love,” there’s a palpable sense of confidence and maturity; the series feels settled and assured in its storytelling. This particular episode stands out as one of the season’s best, weaving a complex and twist-filled narrative that thoroughly engages the viewer from start to finish. Even compared to later episodes, which boast their own strengths, “Brotherly Love” remains a benchmark for its early excellence.
Visually and atmospherically, ‘The Doctor Blake Mysteries’ excels. The post-World War II era is meticulously recreated, immersing viewers in both opulent and gritty settings. The costumes and period details are charming and authentic, enhancing the overall sense of time and place. The cinematography is beautiful, utilizing atmospheric lighting and a subtly dark, greyish palette that perfectly complements the show’s tone and thematic depth. The score is sensitively composed, and the haunting theme tune is instantly memorable, embedding itself in the viewer’s mind long after the episode concludes. Direction throughout the series is consistently restrained and effective, allowing the story and performances to shine.
Even in these early episodes, the writing in ‘The Doctor Blake Mysteries’ is remarkably sharp, establishing a distinct and engaging tone. The dialogue is thought-provoking, skillfully weaving mystery elements with deeper thematic considerations. Crucially, despite the often serious subject matter, the atmosphere never becomes oppressively grim. The storylines are consistently riveting, maintaining suspense and ensuring viewers are invested in seeing each mystery resolved. The solutions are cleverly crafted – neither too obvious nor overly convoluted – striking a perfect balance. The characters are well-developed and move beyond simple archetypes. Lucien Blake, in particular, emerges early on as a genuinely fascinating protagonist, drawing viewers into his complex world.
Craig McLachlan delivers a truly superb performance as Doctor Lucien Blake, arguably the best role of his career and undoubtedly showcasing his finest acting work. While initially, he might have seemed an unconventional casting choice, McLachlan embodies the character with remarkable depth and nuance. In fact, the entire cast delivers consistently strong performances, with rarely a weak link to be found. The relationships between the characters are richly drawn and compelling, making it easy for viewers to become emotionally invested in their lives and dilemmas, such as the poignant plight of the convicted man in “Brotherly Love.”
In conclusion, ‘The Doctor Blake Mysteries’, especially episodes like “Brotherly Love”, is a truly great piece of television. It earns a solid 9/10 rating, and is highly recommended for fans of detective dramas seeking something intelligent, well-produced, and refreshingly Australian.
