Watch Suspects

Suspects, a British police procedural drama from the team of acclaimed producers Steve Christian and Paul Marquess, is a show from Acorn TV that aired from 2014 to 2016. The series, which consists of 5 seasons, follows a team of three detectives from London's Metropolitan Police Service, tasked with solving complex crimes in a realistic and timely manner.

The show's unique format sets it apart from other police procedurals. The series combines elements of the police drama genre with improvisation, resulting in a thought-provoking and gripping programme. The show's dialogue is based on a detailed outline that guides the actors, allowing them to improvise within the framework of the story. This results in a captivating and often intense performance from the cast.

The cast is led by Damien Molony, who plays Detective Sergeant Jack Weston, a seasoned detective with years of experience. Clare-Hope Ashitey stars as Detective Constable Charlie Steele, a young and ambitious officer who is eager to prove herself in the field. Fay Ripley joins the team as Detective Inspector Martha Bellamy, the team leader who takes a no-nonsense approach to solving crimes.

The show often deals with serious and sensitive topics, including murder, assault, and sexual offenses. The detectives' approach to solving cases is realistic and grounded in actual police procedures. The investigation process is methodical and thorough, with the detectives following leads and gathering evidence before presenting the case to the Crown Prosecution Service.

One of the show's strengths is its realism. The show's production team worked closely with retired police officers and advisors to ensure that the storylines were authentic and accurate. The series is set in London and features a diverse cast of characters, reflecting the diversity of the city. The show also addresses issues of racism and discrimination, challenging the viewer to think critically about these important topics.

The show's use of improvisation adds a layer of authenticity to the performances. The actors are able to react in real-time to situations they encounter during investigations, responding instinctively as their characters. This approach results in a more naturalistic and nuanced performance, which feels more authentic to the viewer.

The series also incorporates the use of technology in solving crimes. The detectives utilise cutting-edge forensic techniques and computer technology to help them in their work. The show also addresses the impact of social media on police investigations, with the detectives using online platforms to gather information that could help them solve cases.

Despite its serious subject matter, the show also has moments of humour and levity. The chemistry between the three detectives is fantastic, and their banter and occasional disagreements offer a glimpse into their personalities and relationships.

In conclusion, Suspects is a must-watch for fans of the police procedural genre. The show's use of improvisation adds a realistic and authentic layer to the performances, while the realistic and sensitive handling of serious topics provides a thought-provoking viewing experience. The cast is fantastic, and the use of technology and forensic techniques adds a modern twist to the classic police procedural format. This show is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and thought-provoking crime drama.

Suspects is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (26 episodes). The series first aired on January 31, 2014.