Watch DCI Banks

DCI Banks is a British crime television series that aired on ITV from 2010 to 2016. Based on the best-selling crime novels by Peter Robinson, the show follows the life and work of Detective Chief Inspector Alan Banks, played by Stephen Tompkinson, as he investigates murders and other crimes in the picturesque setting of the Yorkshire Dales.

The show is produced by Left Bank Pictures, and the series is adapted from the books by Robert Murphy. Each episode is an hour long and follows a self-contained crime story, although there are also ongoing storylines that develop across the seasons. The show has been praised for its strong performances, excellent writing, and beautiful locations.

Stephen Tompkinson stars as DCI Banks, a hard-working and dedicated police officer with a strong moral compass. Banks is often driven by his own personal demons, including the loss of his parents at a young age, and his complicated relationships with his family and his colleagues. Banks is supported by his loyal team, including his right-hand woman, Detective Sergeant Annie Cabbot, played by Andrea Lowe, and his enthusiastic and eager-to-please trainee, Detective Constable Winsome Jackman, played by Caroline Catz.

The crimes that the team investigate are often complex and involve a range of suspects and motives. Throughout the series, the team deal with murders, kidnappings, drug trafficking, blackmail, and other crimes. The show is not for the faint-hearted, as the murders are often graphic and disturbing. However, the show is not just about the crimes themselves. DCI Banks also explores the personal lives of the characters, delving into their personal relationships and the impact that the murders have on them.

One of the defining features of the show is its stunning location in the Yorkshire Dales. The show takes full advantage of the beauty of the region, and the stunning scenery serves as a backdrop to the dark and disturbing crimes that are committed in the area. The show's visual style is also notable for its use of muted colours and a deliberately gritty aesthetic, which gives the show a moody and atmospheric feel.

DCI Banks is a show that thrives on its tense and intriguing storylines, as well as its strong performances. Stephen Tompkinson is an engaging and believable lead, and his portrayal of the haunted and determined DCI Banks is one of the show's strongest assets. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Andrea Lowe delivering a nuanced performance as the sharp and competent DS Cabbot, and Caroline Catz bringing a sense of warmth and humour to the role of DC Jackman.

One of the standout features of the show is its exploration of Banks' personal life. Throughout the series, we see him struggle with his relationships with his estranged brother, his ex-wife, and his own feelings of loneliness and isolation. These personal storylines provide a rich and complex backdrop to the crimes that the team investigate, giving the show an emotional depth that is lacking in many other crime dramas.

Overall, DCI Banks is a gripping and engrossing crime drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With strong performances, engaging storylines, and stunning visuals, it is one of the best British crime dramas of recent years. Whether you are a fan of the books or new to the series, DCI Banks is well worth watching.

DCI Banks is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (37 episodes). The series first aired on September 27, 2010.