Watch P.D. James: Death of an Expert Witness

P.D. James: Death of an Expert Witness is a crime drama television series that aired on Anglia Television. The show is adapted from the novel of the same title by P.D. James and stars Roy Marsden, Barry Foster, Ray Brooks, Brenda Blethyn, Fiona Walker, Ivor Roberts, Andrew Ray, Meg Davies, John Vine, and Malcolm Terris.

The story follows the investigation of the murder of Dr. Edwin Lorrimer, a forensic scientist who worked at the Maxstead Court Forensic Laboratory. Detective Superintendent Adam Dalgliesh, played by Roy Marsden, is assigned to the case and must navigate a complex web of relationships and secrets among the staff and guests of the laboratory, including Dr. Lorrimer's former lover and colleague, Dr. Angela Foley (played by Brenda Blethyn).

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that Dr. Lorrimer's death is not an isolated incident, and the lives of everyone at Maxstead Court are in danger. Dalgliesh must race against time to uncover the killer's identity before they strike again.

The cast of the show is impressive, with several well-known British actors bringing their talents to the series. Roy Marsden is a standout as Adam Dalgliesh, portraying the detective as intelligent but also human and vulnerable. Barry Foster also delivers a memorable performance as Maxstead Court's director, Dr. Steven Farraday, who may have more to do with the murder than he lets on.

The show's setting is also a highlight, as the Maxstead Court Forensic Laboratory provides a dark, claustrophobic backdrop for the investigation. The series is filmed with a muted color palette and features ominous music that adds to the tension and suspense of the story.

While the show is a murder mystery at its core, it also explores themes of love, betrayal, and the ethics of forensic science. Dr. Lorrimer's work involved examining evidence from crime scenes and using it to solve cases, but as Dalgliesh discovers, his methods may have been flawed and unscrupulous.

Overall, P.D. James: Death of an Expert Witness is a gripping crime drama that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The show's talented cast, atmospheric setting, and complex storyline make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.