183 reviews
A fine series with a charming lead
Having neither read the books nor seen the original television movies, I come to the series with unbiased (if ignorant) eyes. My wife and I, who lived briefly in Toronto, are both charmed by Murdoch and his slightly daft colleagues. "Charmed" is the word, for we find the actors, scripts, clothing, details and the City of Toronto itself charming. The bigotry faced by a Catholic detective in the city of the Family Compact rings very true as does Murdoch's gentle piety, a refreshing change in today's detective shows. It is a bit mystery, a bit soap opera, a bit character study and a lot of fun. We, at least, have been captivated by William Murdoch as portrayed by Yannick Bisson, a character who is a genuinely honest, gentle and quiet man of strength facing ethical, moral, professional and legal challenges in each episode. George Crabtree and the Inspector become more interesting as time goes on. The corruption of Toronto and Ontario politics hides behind several episodes while the turn of the 20th century fascination with science and "the coming thing", as Brisco County Junior would say, gives some lightness to the whole thing. In the final analysis it is the interplay of characters, centred on the troubled but charming Murdoch himself, that elevates the Murdoch Mysteries to the level of Midsomer, Taggert or Poirot. A fine series and not only for Canadians.
Very well made and acted Victorian era set Canadian crime series.
'Murdoch Mysteries' stars Yannick Bisson as Inspector William Murdoch who solves crimes in 1890's Toronto, is an exceptionally well made and acted series, which makes a nice change from CSI/NCIS etc. staple of whiz-bang, FX laden crime shows
Bisson is likable as the handsome Inspector, with English Actor Thomas Craig suitably sceptical and at times dopey as his by-the-book boss and Johnny Craig is good as his rather naive partner and at times hindrance Constable Crabtree.
Helene Joy is suitably understated as the resident Doctor/Pathologist.
Now in its Third series, currently being shown on UK Cable channel ALIBI, (It surely deserves a wider audience on a Major British Channel)
The writing, set design and Photography is exquisite and convincing
Fans of well made and intelligent Mystery Series will find much enjoyment in Inspector Murdoch's cases.
Bisson is likable as the handsome Inspector, with English Actor Thomas Craig suitably sceptical and at times dopey as his by-the-book boss and Johnny Craig is good as his rather naive partner and at times hindrance Constable Crabtree.
Helene Joy is suitably understated as the resident Doctor/Pathologist.
Now in its Third series, currently being shown on UK Cable channel ALIBI, (It surely deserves a wider audience on a Major British Channel)
The writing, set design and Photography is exquisite and convincing
Fans of well made and intelligent Mystery Series will find much enjoyment in Inspector Murdoch's cases.
- WelshFilmCraze
- Apr 3, 2010
- Permalink
A fun, yet thoughtful show.
I caught 'The Murdoch Mysteries' by accident while drifting around the satellite channels and was instantly hooked. A well performed, touching and interesting show caught my eye. The characters are involving, are worth caring about and have a strong sense of purpose. Each one brings something to the mix and adds their own skills to the events of each episode. Each episode has a strong mystery to be solved, sometimes offering an intriguing moral dilemma to both Murdoch and the viewer. It is also very reassuring to not have modern day morality thrust into the past as happens so frequently with other shows (yes 'Dr Quinn Medicine Woman', I mean you), dealing with the nineteenth century. Instead we are allowed to explore the world as they see it, enjoying the discoveries and trying to find a way forward into a new century. Well done to all concerned and long may it continue.
- llawrance1972
- Apr 8, 2010
- Permalink
Message from 'down under'
There are so few shows that I thoroughly enjoy. Murchoch Mysteries is one of 4 particular shows that I watch regularly - and tape so that I do not miss them.
There are three main reasons that I like MM.
First, it is such a pleasure to watch something that does not have swearing, sex scenes, and gratuitous violence. Even though there are the odd (bordering on) romantic interludes the story line remains true to the theme of the title and they do not over-shadow the stories.
Second, I quite like viewing shows that depict times gone by and it is interesting to see how detectives'/police duties were (supposedly) undertaken in that time.
Third, the acting and story telling - as noted in a previous post - equals that of Midsummer Murders, Poirot (another favourite of mine), Judge John Deed (again, another favourite).
I like each character who has a distinct role and adds to the show as well as the enjoyment of watching the show. I do hope that there are quite a few new series planned.
There are three main reasons that I like MM.
First, it is such a pleasure to watch something that does not have swearing, sex scenes, and gratuitous violence. Even though there are the odd (bordering on) romantic interludes the story line remains true to the theme of the title and they do not over-shadow the stories.
Second, I quite like viewing shows that depict times gone by and it is interesting to see how detectives'/police duties were (supposedly) undertaken in that time.
Third, the acting and story telling - as noted in a previous post - equals that of Midsummer Murders, Poirot (another favourite of mine), Judge John Deed (again, another favourite).
I like each character who has a distinct role and adds to the show as well as the enjoyment of watching the show. I do hope that there are quite a few new series planned.
- janice-lowing
- Dec 27, 2012
- Permalink
Murdoch Mysteries Show
Great Canadian show. Simple, yet top notch with a Canadian like atmosphere.Very realistic for the times. History is great. The clothing designs and artifacts is exceptional. It seems the times were simple back then. Well written with a touch of humour. The cast are all excellent. You can tell they all get along really well. The show reminds me of Sherlock Holmes and yet it also reminds me of Sue Thomas FB Eye and Due South which by the way it sure was nice to see Paul Gross (from Due South) appear in an episode as his brother, although not sure what episode it was. We didn't see his name on the cast list as a guest star. The guest appearances are outstanding and it sure is nice to see some familiar faces. We love and watch all the episodes. With each season the character story lines change as in the case of Helen Joy, Yannick Bisson which is excellent leaving us more curious with what will happen next. That is one of the reasons we like the show. Now that the show is in it's fourth year the plot lines are continually changing which goes to prove that Murdoch Mysteries is a true success. Keep up the excellent work.
- Bmart-405-556104
- Jun 23, 2012
- Permalink
Simply The Best Mystery
I'm been watching mysteries for many years and never have enjoyed a series more than Murdoch Mysteries. The time period, set design and writing matches the great performances by the cast, who you can't help but appreciate. If ever a series deserved a wider audience and advertising, it is this one. The unfulfilled love affair between Doctor Ogden and Murdoch is so well written and performed perfectly by Helene Joy and Yannick Bisson. Also, top notch acting by Jonny Harris in his portrayal of Constable Crabtree gives just the prefect comic relief while Murdoch solves the case using every scientific method available. Thomas Craig is also marvelous as the cranky Inspector Brackenreid. I can't help wondering why this show does not have a larger audience base since it is the talk of so many people I know, both at work and socially. My wife and I eagerly await each and every episode. Please make many many more!
The Season 2008
The Murdoch Mysteries is like; The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, with Jeremy Brett meets CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.
Yannic Bisson had made a master piece in establishing 'Murdoch's" character, which in my opinion, takes the best of William Peterson's role as "Gil Grissom" and Jeremy Brett's as "Sherlock Holmes". The feel of this show gives me the impression that these characters are believable, I actually care about how their relationships' enfold and in the exploration of the early sciences of crime scene investigation, it shows an appreciation for the intelligence of it's viewers.
For example, the episode: "Still Waters", where Murdock uses his "new fangled lie detector", show us a level of sophistication in helping the viewer, me, see how through science and experimentation these early "machines", might have actually looked like.
The production company, SHAFTSBURY FILMS, has created a "Canadian" show that doesn't look like any other "Canadian" show I've ever seen, way to go everyone!
S. Lucy Rehlau
Yannic Bisson had made a master piece in establishing 'Murdoch's" character, which in my opinion, takes the best of William Peterson's role as "Gil Grissom" and Jeremy Brett's as "Sherlock Holmes". The feel of this show gives me the impression that these characters are believable, I actually care about how their relationships' enfold and in the exploration of the early sciences of crime scene investigation, it shows an appreciation for the intelligence of it's viewers.
For example, the episode: "Still Waters", where Murdock uses his "new fangled lie detector", show us a level of sophistication in helping the viewer, me, see how through science and experimentation these early "machines", might have actually looked like.
The production company, SHAFTSBURY FILMS, has created a "Canadian" show that doesn't look like any other "Canadian" show I've ever seen, way to go everyone!
S. Lucy Rehlau
History and Morals
A wonderful Victorian era show that highlights many of the issues they had at the time, though some reviews I see do not understand this. It goes without saying that the show is not for everyone, I appreciates history, even when it is lightly played with inventions and such as Murdock does. This is a show that highlights Canadian values and has some deep underlying moral questions that will tug at your mind. You may not agree with all of the politics and religion that a few shows have but they are true to the time. I only wished people had the same decency that many of these characters have as it appears in this century we have lost many of those values.
Regards to all those who review and enjoy.
Regards to all those who review and enjoy.
Great Series
I like this series as it has so much to offer. The scenes & locales are interesting & very real to life. The actors demonstrate their abilities to fit the characters & make the characters real. I've seen both versions of Murdoch Mysteries with the 2 different lead roles & find them both a credit to each of the actors. Yes, obviously, they present different aspects of the character but each brings quality to the part. I really enjoy this series & look forward to each episode. It's great to see a Canadian production of this quality on TV - such a rare gem. I do hope this series is kept on & is appreciated by both the public & especially by the TV providers - cable & satellite.
- hmflashgordon
- Apr 10, 2008
- Permalink
Rush to judgement - A series versus movies of the week
The inevitable comparisons are going to take place between these two actors, Peter Outerbridge and Yannick Bisson. Their interpretation of the material is different for one very important reason, the movies of the week were based on novels, the series is based on the characters with the exception of one episode which is an adaptation of Let Loose The Dogs. My feeling is that you should not rush to judgement or make comparisons until you are able to see the entire series of episodes and witness how the characters unfold. The series is excellent and I would urge viewers to form an opinion after viewing a number of the episodes and see how the actors nuance their characters as well as the different textures that are shown from story to story, episode to episode.
Where are the Murdoch Mysteries heading?
Series 1 - 11 were absolutely wonderful. William was inventing. Crabtree was hilariously naming stuff! Julia was moving with the times, as you would expect of a worldly woman. Everything was working, staying within the boundaries of the time they were living in. Series 12 comes along and things changed quite dramatically. William wasn't inventing very much. There started to be more attention to the main characters personal lives than murder or mystery. Now on series 13 and it just seems to be worsening. William hasn't invented anything, and, dare I say it? Yes, woke! Why are we suddenly putting today's social values in an early 1900s setting? I just don't get it at all. They'll all be using mobile phones and the internet next.
- cpearce374
- Apr 6, 2020
- Permalink
Past Its Prime
At one time, Murdoch Mysteries was my all time favorite show of all time. I loved the characters, the storylines where engrossing and clever, then season 14 the acting and storylines begin to becoming just absurd and plots not aligned with the time period. By season 15 I just lost interest, but kept hoping it would get better. Season 16 I watched sporadically, and we are well into season 17 and sad to say I have not watched one episode and have no desire to do so. I can't believe they have been renewed for a season 18 -- all of the characters are way too old for the same character writing. I am truly over this show.
- labenji-12163
- May 30, 2024
- Permalink
A wonderful show till s11, but declining since
Season 17
This show, once one of my favourites, has deteriorated in content since Murdoch and Julia had the baby. Both Yannick BIsson and Helene Joy, usually great actors, have turned into idiots and the story lines are hideous. I think the writers need to rethink these characters and give them back some intelligence and come up with much better story lines. I fear that this series must be on its last legs as I cannot imagine that anyone who enjoyed this series before Suzanna is still enjoying it since her birth. Sure hope to see some changes soon or I won't be wasting my time watching new episodes for very much longer.
A charming series that winks at the audience. Strong characters are the strength of the series. Anachronistic with kind of a fantasy vibe.
- reb-warrior
- Jul 4, 2020
- Permalink
From terrific to just ick
- rightingwrong
- Nov 29, 2022
- Permalink
This is Mrs. Shullivan and my own "Go To" television series
When you get bored with everything else that is currently on television and you need a guaranteed hour of sheer entertainment that can whisk you away to a simpler time when the world was not as chaotic and confusing as it is now than may I suggest getting hooked on the CBC's (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) television series Murdoch Mysteries which is now entering their ninth season of continued success.
This is a very unique crime/mystery series which takes place at the turn of the 20th century in the large bustling city of Toronto Ontario, Canada, which is served by the finest constabularies in the country, that being the Toronto Constabulary. There are three main characters who are employed by the City of Toronto Constabulary in the year 1899. The local police station is managed by the gruff (of Scottish descent) Inspector Thomas Brackenreid and he is played by Thomas Craig. The lead detective William Murdoch is played to perfection by Yannick Bisson. One of the constables who is usually chasing behind the clever detective William Murdoch with a slew of his own questions is the affable Newfoundlander born Constable George Crabtree, played with an endless supply of lovable smiles and charisma by actor Jonny Harris. Now George Crabtree does add a lot of comic relief but if you pay careful attention to the ingenious inventions that George shares with his peers you will note that he is usually talking about an actual discovery/invention that will come to fruition in the latter half of the 20th century. Thus the series provides some historical significance to many inventions/things we usually take for granted.
Detective William Murdoch also is ahead of his time with some of his newly created forensic science approaches to solving crimes, such as his underwater sonar device and his archaic night vision glasses. Murdoch has a near distant love interest in the city coroner Dr. Julia Ogden played extremely well by Helene Joy. The audience anticipates and is constantly teased that some day maybe they will be together. Between the two of them they assess the W5 (Who, What, When, Where and Why) of the current episodes latest murder victim(s), serious crime, and/or historical event that actually occurred in documented history and brought to life in this excellent crafted mystery/crime series.
Mrs. Shullivan and I have not only watched every single episode of this amazing series but we have also deliberately watched repeated episodes with as much interest if not more than the first time we saw the episodes as we always seem to pick up more interesting tidbits of not only historic events but of the development of the City of Toronto and its urban sprawl during the 20th century. The writers must have taken great pride in maintaining the accuracy of events such as the time line to build the Toronto subway line, and the evolution of fortune 500 companies such as the Ford Motor Company, IBM and General Electric.
Murdoch Mysteries cannot be taken for granted and should be on your MUST see list as there is so much punch packed in to each 60 minute episode that you rarely can determine how each episode will end. This is a series that is filled with mystery, suspense, historical events and great humour. The success of this excellent series continues into its ninth season with no diminishing return as each episode concludes. Mrs. Shullivan and I cannot wait for the next episode to be released as it is one hour each week of guaranteed entertainment. The quality of the cinematography and wardrobe is first rate.
A 10 for 10 rating without a doubt
Footnote: Actor Jonny Harris had his own weekly TV series launched in 2015 titled STILL STANDING in which he travels from one small Canadian town to another each week where the population is typically under 1,000 people and where the town is surviving based on the people and their small town pride. Jonny Harris meets with the local yokels and then he roasts the entire town in their local civic hall explaining to his hometown audience and we the television viewers what makes this town so special. It is a great 30 minute hooray for Canadiana heritage that is also sheer to entertain. Super job Jonny Harris and CBC!
This is a very unique crime/mystery series which takes place at the turn of the 20th century in the large bustling city of Toronto Ontario, Canada, which is served by the finest constabularies in the country, that being the Toronto Constabulary. There are three main characters who are employed by the City of Toronto Constabulary in the year 1899. The local police station is managed by the gruff (of Scottish descent) Inspector Thomas Brackenreid and he is played by Thomas Craig. The lead detective William Murdoch is played to perfection by Yannick Bisson. One of the constables who is usually chasing behind the clever detective William Murdoch with a slew of his own questions is the affable Newfoundlander born Constable George Crabtree, played with an endless supply of lovable smiles and charisma by actor Jonny Harris. Now George Crabtree does add a lot of comic relief but if you pay careful attention to the ingenious inventions that George shares with his peers you will note that he is usually talking about an actual discovery/invention that will come to fruition in the latter half of the 20th century. Thus the series provides some historical significance to many inventions/things we usually take for granted.
Detective William Murdoch also is ahead of his time with some of his newly created forensic science approaches to solving crimes, such as his underwater sonar device and his archaic night vision glasses. Murdoch has a near distant love interest in the city coroner Dr. Julia Ogden played extremely well by Helene Joy. The audience anticipates and is constantly teased that some day maybe they will be together. Between the two of them they assess the W5 (Who, What, When, Where and Why) of the current episodes latest murder victim(s), serious crime, and/or historical event that actually occurred in documented history and brought to life in this excellent crafted mystery/crime series.
Mrs. Shullivan and I have not only watched every single episode of this amazing series but we have also deliberately watched repeated episodes with as much interest if not more than the first time we saw the episodes as we always seem to pick up more interesting tidbits of not only historic events but of the development of the City of Toronto and its urban sprawl during the 20th century. The writers must have taken great pride in maintaining the accuracy of events such as the time line to build the Toronto subway line, and the evolution of fortune 500 companies such as the Ford Motor Company, IBM and General Electric.
Murdoch Mysteries cannot be taken for granted and should be on your MUST see list as there is so much punch packed in to each 60 minute episode that you rarely can determine how each episode will end. This is a series that is filled with mystery, suspense, historical events and great humour. The success of this excellent series continues into its ninth season with no diminishing return as each episode concludes. Mrs. Shullivan and I cannot wait for the next episode to be released as it is one hour each week of guaranteed entertainment. The quality of the cinematography and wardrobe is first rate.
A 10 for 10 rating without a doubt
Footnote: Actor Jonny Harris had his own weekly TV series launched in 2015 titled STILL STANDING in which he travels from one small Canadian town to another each week where the population is typically under 1,000 people and where the town is surviving based on the people and their small town pride. Jonny Harris meets with the local yokels and then he roasts the entire town in their local civic hall explaining to his hometown audience and we the television viewers what makes this town so special. It is a great 30 minute hooray for Canadiana heritage that is also sheer to entertain. Super job Jonny Harris and CBC!
- Ed-Shullivan
- Sep 26, 2015
- Permalink
Excellent TV, now turned to mush and beginning to rot.
Murdoch was a superb blend of concept, plot, wardrobe and character. I enjoyed the first thirteen seasons. The cast is strong throughout and the stories interesting and believable in the context of the show. Some of the historical figures inserted into the story have added flavour. The relationship between Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) and Ogden (Helene Joy) works remarkably well with both of them contributing to cases and providing a spine from which to hang various plots.
Last season (14) the writers began to run out of steam and this year many of the episodes are poor and pander too deeply to modern-day sensibilities. Sad to say, it is time to be put out to pasture.
Last season (14) the writers began to run out of steam and this year many of the episodes are poor and pander too deeply to modern-day sensibilities. Sad to say, it is time to be put out to pasture.
Fantastic show!
I have been watching Murdoch Mysteries since the first season and it just keeps getting better and better. I discovered it on my own and eventually my husband started watching it too. Now, it is something we watch as a family! My 14 and 10 year old sons are hooked too! There are many reasons why I love this show so much - it has so many great elements in it - humour, drama, mystery, romance....the writing/story lines are so creative and clever. I love how they tie in real historic figures into the program like Alexander Graham Bell, Harry Houdini and Henry Ford. The cast is incredibly talented. The 19th century period costumes are beautiful. This is a true Canadian gem of a program which every household should be watching!
- jlkijijisales558
- Sep 13, 2012
- Permalink
Season 15
Did the writers change for Season 15? The plots are weaker and the dialogue tempo and energy has dropped significantly. Very disappointing. If the writers are tired, just end the series. I have loved previous seasons! This makes me sad.
- JLBrooks1228
- Jun 16, 2022
- Permalink
Yannick Bisson
Yannick Bisson is a fine actor and does a Excellent job as Murdoch. I'm sure that Peter did a good job with the movies but TV shows are different. And if you read Maureen Jennings site you find out that she likes Yannick Bisson as Murdoch in the TV show as well as Peter in the movies. I know that some people can be fans of a certain actor and they are loyal to that actor so that might cloud there judgment.So a TV show can be good and the new actor playing the part very good but if someone is loyal to the other actor they may have a clouded judgment on the show. If you watch the TV show you will fine that it is wonderful show and that Yannick Bisson is a fine actor and does a great job as Murdoch. I also trust Maureen Jennings since she wrote the books and she is pleased with Mr. Bisson and the TV show. All you have to do is watch the TV show and you find out for yourself that its a great show, and Yannick is a great Murdoch. So watch and find out for yourself.
- reginafrisbie
- Jan 27, 2008
- Permalink
Too "woke" for its time...
On its ascent into TV immortality, this unique detective series was about science, intellect, and innovation well ahead of its time. In recent years it has devolved into smug intersectional sermonizing. The writers appear to be attempting to rewrite the history of the North American cultural conscience, ascribing to it a woke perspective that wouldn't assert itself as a cultural seismic event for a century yet.
- elbonian00-218-882971
- Apr 14, 2020
- Permalink
An American's View
I stumbled upon MM by accident, as others have written in these reviews. I was favorably impressed - so much so that, when my husband was channel surfing, looking for something we'd both enjoy, I suggested he watch an episode to see if he enjoyed it, as well. About us: Hubs was a history major in college and has a memory like steel trap I'm more focused on futuristic things and predicted many things in our college years which are commonplace today, 35 years later. So he loves the historic tone and tenor of the period setting and I love the "tinkering" the main character does that brings new technologies into forensic science. We both find all the characters believable, lovable and fun, to the extent that we cheer for Constable Crabtree when he finds love, and tear up when he loses it, etc. We ventured to Hulu and subscribed just so we could binge watch MM from the very beginning. Now I'm reading this is based on a book, so I must go find it. PLEASE follow these characters until they are old and full of days.
- schelly-94729
- May 27, 2019
- Permalink
No longer a 10 out of 10
The show started out great but over time the show focuses on social injustices. Don't get me wrong I understand the world has social issues that need addressing. But I watch this show to be entertained and not for a lesson in social justice.
- phone-man-126-940283
- May 30, 2020
- Permalink
Has had its day
Once upon a time was about quirky inventions that assisted a likeable detective and his colleagues. Also a nice bit of 19th century romance. Then more and more the detective work and inventions disappeared and the show became a lecture about social justice. Its bizarre. Minorities are always spoken about as being very badly treated while at the same time the show has minorities in very senior posts that they never would have attained. A very mixed message.
- aislingdublin
- Jan 22, 2021
- Permalink