

Detective
A BBC anthology series featuring adaptations of detective stories over 45 episodes in three seasons that ran from 1964 to 1969. As with many BBC programmes made before the early 1970s, many of its episodes no longer exist. Of the eighteen episodes from the first season only twelve are currently known to exist; likewise six of the sixteen editions from the second run are considered lost, and just one of the final ten survives in the archives.
Insights
Plot Summary
A private detective takes on a case that seems straightforward but quickly unravels into a complex web of deceit and danger. As he delves deeper, he finds himself entangled with ruthless criminals and a mysterious woman whose true motives are unclear. The investigation leads him down a dark path where trust is scarce and survival is paramount.
Critical Reception
Detective (1969) received a mixed to positive reception, appreciated for its gritty atmosphere and suspenseful plot. While some critics found the narrative convoluted at times, the performances, particularly from lead Frank Finlay, were widely praised. It's considered a solid, if not groundbreaking, entry in the crime thriller genre of its era.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its suspenseful and intriguing plot.
- Frank Finlay's performance as the detective was a standout.
- Some found the storyline a bit too complex or confusing.
Google audience: Audience reviews are not widely available for this title, making it difficult to summarize specific likes or dislikes.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the novel 'The Long Drop' by Margaret Millar.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources