Watch McCallum

McCallum is a British television drama series that aired from 1995 to 1998. Starring John Hannah as the titular character, Dr. Iain McCallum, the show is set in a teaching hospital in London and follows the investigations conducted by McCallum, a forensic pathologist.

The show opens with McCallum performing an autopsy on a young woman found dead with apparently no cause of death. McCallum's meticulous attention to detail leads him to uncover evidence of foul play, and sets the tone for the rest of the series. Each episode features a new case for McCallum to solve, often involving complex medical and scientific evidence, and at times requiring him to work closely with the police.

As the series progresses, the audience learns more about McCallum's personal life, including his troubled past and complicated love life. He is a man who is dedicated to his work, but also struggling to find a balance in his relationships with those around him.

Gerard Murphy plays McCallum's colleague and friend, Dr. Robert Hill, who often assists him in his investigations. Hill is a more laid-back character than McCallum, with a dry wit and a penchant for golf. Their dynamic is an interesting one, as they both share a love for their work but have very different personalities.

Other recurring characters include DI Mike Hedges (James Saxon), McCallum's contact in the police department; McCallum's love interest, Dr. Angela Moloney (Zara Turner); and pathologist Dr. Joanna "Jo" Stevens (Saskia Reeves), who often clashes with McCallum but ultimately earns his respect.

One of the strengths of McCallum is its attention to detail in the medical and forensic aspects of each case. The show's creators consulted with real-life forensic pathologists and used their input to create accurate and believable scenarios. This lends the show a level of authenticity that sets it apart from other crime dramas.

Another notable aspect of the show is its visual style. McCallum's investigations take place in dimly-lit laboratories and autopsy rooms, giving the show a moody, atmospheric feel. The camera work is often close-up, emphasizing the medical procedures and evidence that McCallum works with.

The show tackles a wide range of cases, from suspicious suicides to murders involving complex scientific evidence. Each episode is self-contained, meaning that viewers can enjoy the show without having seen previous episodes. However, there are also ongoing storylines that develop throughout the series, adding depth to the characters and their relationships.

Overall, McCallum is a compelling and well-crafted crime drama that manages to balance the procedural aspects of its investigations with the personal lives of its characters. Fans of shows like Silent Witness and CSI will find much to enjoy here.

McCallum is a series that ran for 2 seasons (9 episodes) between December 28, 1995 and on FilmRise