Agatha Christie, the iconic English mystery writer, has left an indelible mark on the literary world and beyond. Her influence extends far and wide, especially in the realm of television, where her legacy continues to thrive. From period dramas to modern twists, Christie's impact on the small screen is a testament to her enduring appeal.
But here's where it gets controversial: some argue that Christie's influence is so pervasive that it's easy to miss the unique contributions of other mystery writers and their adaptations. So, let's explore some of the best mystery shows that draw inspiration from Christie's work, while also offering their own distinct flavors.
1. Murder, She Wrote (CBS, 1984-1996)
This long-running American detective series stars Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a mystery novelist with a knack for finding herself in the midst of murder investigations. Jessica's perceptive skills and deductive reasoning make her an invaluable asset to the authorities. The show's setting, a small coastal town in Maine, adds a charming and cozy atmosphere to the mysteries.
2. Jonathan Creek (BBC, 1997-2016)
In a refreshing take on the British procedural, 'Jonathan Creek' brings a theatrical flair to the genre. Alan Davies plays the titular character, a creative consultant for stage magicians, who inadvertently becomes a crime solver. With his expertise in magic and illusion, Creek debunks supernatural mysteries, showcasing his unique skill set. The show's blend of mystery and magical theatricality makes it an enduring classic.
3. Foyle's War (ITV, 2002-2015)
Written by the prolific crime writer Anthony Horowitz, 'Foyle's War' transports us to the English coastal city of Hastings during World War II. The series follows police superintendent Christopher Foyle, an older detective who, despite his age, is a natural at solving crimes. The show's WWII homefront setting adds a unique layer to the mysteries, as Foyle takes on cases while the nation is focused on the war effort.
4. Vera (ITV, 2011-present)
Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves, 'Vera' follows the adventures of veteran police detective Vera Stanhope, played by Brenda Blethyn. Set in the Northumberland region of Northern England, the series explores Vera's personal life and her impending retirement, all while she solves intriguing cases. With a robust run of 14 seasons, 'Vera' has become a genre constant, offering a compelling blend of mystery and character development.
5. Death in Paradise (BBC, 2011-present)
Inspired by Christie's exotic murder mysteries, 'Death in Paradise' takes us to the fictional British Caribbean territory of Saint Marie. The show follows a rotating cast of British police detectives stationed on the island, offering a fresh perspective with each change of protagonist. With its wicked sense of humor and stunning Guadeloupe locations, 'Death in Paradise' offers a sunny alternative to the typical British mystery.
6. Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (ABC, 2012-2015)
Adapted from the historical mystery novels by Kerry Greenwood, 'Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries' is set in 1920s Melbourne. Essie Davis stars as Phryne Fisher, a private detective haunted by the death of her younger sister. The series embraces the jazzy and glamorous aspects of the era, creating a visually stunning and captivating show.
7. Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators (BBC, 2018-present)
Set in the hometown of William Shakespeare, this comedy mystery series follows private detective Frank Hathaway and his business partner, Luella Shakespeare. With a lighthearted tone, the show focuses on the chemistry between its lead actors and the unique setting of Stratford-upon-Avon.
8. Ms. Ma, Nemesis (SBS TV, 2018)
A South Korean take on Christie's work, 'Ms. Ma, Nemesis' modernizes and reframes her stories for a Korean audience. Based on Christie's final novel, 'Nemesis,' the K-drama follows mystery writer Ma Ji-won, who escapes from prison to find her daughter's true murderer. With a mix of mysteries and personal vengeance, the show offers a fresh and original perspective on Christie's lesser-known novels.
9. Poker Face (Peacock, 2021-present)
Created by Agatha Christie fan Rian Johnson, 'Poker Face' stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a woman with an extraordinary ability to detect lies. The series follows Charlie's cross-country journey, where she stumbles upon mysteries that draw on her unique expertise. With a focus on an episodic approach in season 2, 'Poker Face' offers a modern twist on the classic mystery genre.
10. Magpie Murders (BBC, 2022)
Adapted from Anthony Horowitz's novel, 'Magpie Murders' is a postmodern mystery show. The series follows book editor Susan Ryeland as she uncovers the truth behind the death of author Alan Conway and his unfinished novel. With two parallel narratives, the show deconstructs and celebrates the literary whodunit, offering a unique and engaging mystery experience.
These mystery shows, inspired by Agatha Christie's work, offer a diverse range of stories and settings. From period pieces to modern takes, they showcase the enduring appeal of the mystery genre and the unique contributions of writers who have built upon Christie's legacy.
So, which of these shows will you be adding to your watchlist? And this is the part most people miss: the beauty of these adaptations lies in their ability to honor Christie's work while also pushing the boundaries of the genre. What are your thoughts on the evolution of mystery shows? Let's discuss in the comments!
