Watch The Artful Detective

The Artful Detective is a television show produced by Ovation that captivates audiences with a mix of crime-solving, mystery, and period drama. Set in Toronto during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the show follows the life and work of Detective William Murdoch, played masterfully by Yannick Bisson, as he navigates through intricate investigations and social changes of the time.

One of the most striking elements of the show is its attention to historical detail. The Artful Detective meticulously portrays different aspects of life in Canada during this era, including the societal norms, the technology, the politics, and the cultural shifts. This creates a rich and authentic environment that complements the engaging storytelling throughout the show.

At its core, The Artful Detective is a police procedural show that follows the classic formula of introducing a new case at the beginning of each episode and unraveling the details of the mystery over the course of the hour. However, the show is much more than just a whodunit series. The writers infuse each case with unique angles, twists, and subplots that keep the audience guessing until the very end. Moreover, the character development is outstanding, and viewers grow to care about each person in the ensemble cast, from the loyal constable George Crabtree (Jonny Harris) to the tenacious pathologist Dr. Emily Grace (Georgina Reilly).

The show's creator, Maureen Jennings, originally wrote the Murdoch Mysteries series of novels that The Artful Detective adapts. This literary foundation gives the show an advantage over other crime dramas since it has a solid source material to reference and can draw on decades of lore and relationships between the protagonists. Even though the show deviates from the book series in some aspects, it remains faithful to the spirit and tone of Jennings' stories, which adds another layer of depth to the overall experience.

The Artful Detective introduces a guest star in each episode, usually a recognizable figure from the entertainment industry, who plays a pivotal role in the mystery or provides a historical backdrop to the events. These guest appearances range from famous actors like William Shatner, who played an eccentric inventor, to cultural icons like Mark Twain, who visited Toronto and provided comedic relief. The guest stars serve as a complement to the cast regulars, and they add variety and novelty to the show's format.

What stands out most about The Artful Detective is its ability to balance different genres and themes in a seamless manner. While the core of the show is a detective drama, there are elements of comedy, romance, sci-fi, and even horror that crop up in different episodes. For instance, there are episodes where Murdoch investigates an alien abduction, a haunted house, or a murder on a movie set. These imaginative and ambitious storylines make The Artful Detective stand out from its peers, and they also showcase the writers' willingness to experiment with different concepts.

Another aspect of the show that deserves praise is the production design. The Artful Detective's art department and costume team have crafted a beautiful and immersive world that transports the viewer to the turn of the century. From the opulent mansions to the gritty alleys, from the fancy dresses to the functional police uniforms, every detail of the show's aesthetics is carefully considered and executed. Additionally, the music score, composed by Robert Carli, matches the period setting perfectly and enhances the mood and tension of each scene.

In summary, The Artful Detective is a rare gem in the vast landscape of television shows. It combines historical accuracy, engaging storytelling, talented acting, and beautiful production design into a package that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. The show's ability to juggle different genres, introduce compelling guest stars, and develop characters that the audience cares about is a testament to the writers' skills and dedication. Above all, The Artful Detective is a treat for anyone who loves a good mystery and appreciates the nuances of the past.