Synopsis:
As played by two-time Oscar nominee Brenda Blethyn (Pride & Prejudice, Atonement), Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope is “nothing less than a TV institution” (Mail on Sunday, UK). In this collection of Sets 1-5, the caustic but brilliant detective solves horrendous crimes in the remote corners of rural Northumberland.
Aided by right-hand man DS Joe Ashworth (David Leon, RocknRolla) and later by troubled DS Aiden Healy (Kenny Doughty, Stella), Vera contends with the untamed evil that lurks below the surface and exposes the demons that plague even those who dedicate their lives to good.
Based on the bestselling novels of Ann Cleeves, this atmospheric drama delivers compelling characters, superb performances, and suspenseful mysteries. Guest stars include Phyllis Logan (Downton Abbey), Julie Graham (The Bletchley Circle), Rose Leslie (Game of Thrones), John Lynch (The Fall), Gina McKee (Notting Hill), Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones), and Judy Parfitt (Call the Midwife).
In Set 6, Vera and Aiden investigate the deaths of a woman found on the moors, a young man who worked at a traveling fairground, a fisherman pulled from the sea, and a mysterious double murder. Despite the rough edges to her personality and her unconventional methods, Vera has proved to be “nothing less than a TV institution” (Mail on Sunday, UK).
What We Thought:
I was not familiar with the show Vera till these collections came my way and I have to say, Brenda Blethyn is fantastic in the show. Absolutely amazing.
The Brits do dramatic TV so darn well especially crime drama. I don’t know why I wait for DVDs of these types of shows because 99% of the time I like the show a lot and should watch when they first air. You can count me as a fan of Vera now.
The Sets 1-5 Collection is 20 discs, TWENTY! I like that the episodes are stand alone enough, but have a similar tone and atmosphere to them that it seems like storylines connect. Some kind of do, but you won’t get lost if you missed the previous episode. Watching this now, the cameos are fantastic. Rose Leslie of Game of Thrones shows up as does Liam Cunningham. You’ll see other actors from famous British shows like Downton Abbey and more.
Set 6 seemed to have much darker crimes and I liked that. The writing and direction really add to the intensity and I think the pacing is perfect. Sometimes a show can be too slow and it takes you out of the episode. Every episode is timed perfectly and wraps up without seeming forced.
But the show lives and breathes because of Blethyn. She is just perfect in the role. Everything about the character works. She’s gruff and smart and no holds barred. Guest roles change from episode to episode, but Blethyn is fantastic with every new actor in every episode. I can’t speak highly enough about her.
My only complaint about the show, and it’s a complaint I have with a lot of British shows, is that the seasons are way too short. You get into a season then it’s time for the next one. It’s great for binging because you can get 4 episodes done quickly and move on to the next season, but it’s such a good show you want more.
Brenda Blethyn gives a masterclass of acting in every episode of Vera. If you aren’t familiar with the show, get the Sets 1-5 Collection. It’s a monster box set, but is worth the money. I guarantee after you finish it you’ll buy Set 6 immediately after. It’s a smart show with great acting and stories. I really liked it.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Cast & Crew:
- Brenda Blethyn
- Jon Morrison
- David Leon
Recommended if You Like:
- Luther
- Shetland
- British Crime Dramas
The Nerds Templar 