The Suspicions of Mr Whicher

The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher is a gripping British television series that was initially broadcast on BBC in 2011. The series is based on the real-life character of Jonathan 'Jack' Whicher, a detective considered one of the original members of the Detective Branch established in Scotland Yard in 1842. The series creatively mixes history, crime and detective drama to create a compelling variation of the English detective mystery genre.

The narrative of The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher is filled with thrilling undertones and a distinct historical underpinning that offers viewers a walk down the memory lane of criminal investigations before the advent of modern forensic sciences. The main character, Mr. Whicher, embodied vividly by Paddy Considine, is a principled and talented detective hailing from the working class, navigating amidst the complexities of crime-solving while dealing with the prejudices of Victorinan era's stratified society.

The first series, or, more accurately, the initial film, focuses on the infamous Constance Kent case of 1860, where a young boy was found brutally murdered. The movie is inspired by the award-winning 2008 book "The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher or The Murder at Road Hill House" by Kate Summerscale. The author handsomely unravelled this historical crime, leading to the adaptation gaining significant audience and critical acclaim.

The Kent case shook the serenity of British society in the Victorian era, exposing the vulnerability hidden behind the high walls of the bourgeois homes. Summoned to solve this deeply mysterious and emotionally intense murder, we observe Mr. Whicher facing stiff opposition from local police and the victim's family, irked and stymied by his unconventional investigative methods. The case, in the real world, propelled public discussions about child abuse, family, privacy, and the role of police.

In the subsequent television films - "The Murder in Angel Lane" (2013), "Beyond the Pale" (2014), and "The Ties That Bind" (2014)- we follow Mr. Whicher after his departure from Scotland Yard. The narrative moves from a specific historical case to fictional narratives where Mr. Whicher works as a private detective, showcasing the nuances of his character and his dedication to achieving justice.

Paddy Considine has infused his character, Whicher, with a stoic charm, wit, a strong sense of justice, and a subtle vulnerability. His performance effortlessly presents a man of humility and principle caught in the severe realities of crime and its underlying societal perceptions—offering a fascinating interpretation that heightens the appeal of the narratives.

The series is set against the backdrop of the Victorian era, displaying stunning attention to detail, which is most evident in the grandeur of the costumes and classic architecture. The cinematographic excellence projects an atmosphere reeking of suspense and mystery—true to the nature of the detective genre.

The crafting of the narrative adeptly maintains a fine balance between the historical reference of the period and the demand for a riveting detective story. The mystery is intelligently inundated with social commentary and related issues, which reflect broader societal themes of the time. This clever interweaving enriches the narrative, making the series much more intriguing and thought-provoking.

The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, with its captivating storylines and riveting performances, does more than just delivering a detective story. It blends the intelligent mystery, intense suspense and deep exploration of societal structures of the time into a coherent mix that appeals to both the casual viewer and the more discerning audience.