After 9 Seasons, This Overlooked but Brilliant British Detective Drama Still Has 92% on RT
Here, each case is more than just an investigation of a crime, it's also an immersion into the social realities of the era.
With so many crime series, it's easy to miss the true gems that have maintained a loyal audience and consistently high quality for decades.
One such series is the British detective show Endeavour, a prequel to Inspector Morse. It's one of the most intellectually rich and masterfully crafted procedurals on modern TV that, unfortunately, has never achieved widespread recognition.
What Is 'Endeavour' About?
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Set in 1960s Oxford, the series chronicles the early years of Inspector Endeavour Morse, whom viewers may recognize from the classic series starring John Thaw.
The series follows a young, intelligent, and deeply unhappy Constable Morse as he begins his career in criminal investigation under the command of Detective Inspector Fred Thursday.
What starts as a strained partnership between a superior and an inexperienced subordinate gradually evolves into one of the most heartfelt and complex friendships on TV.
'Endeavour' Is an Accurate and Detailed Reconstruction of Oxford in the 1960s
Filmed at real Oxford colleges, the show's faithful recreation of everyday life, cars, and social codes creates an unrivaled atmosphere.
Viewers can feel the tension of the era when conservative, hierarchical England collides with the winds of change, including protests, new music, and the breaking down of class barriers.
Even the musical score contributes to this complex historical portrait, artfully blending Morse's beloved classical music with rock hits.
Using detective fiction, Endeavour explores the social issues of the time, including class inequality, corruption, racial prejudice, and the limited opportunities for women.
'Endeavour' Is a Well-Written Procedural With High-Quality And Intriguing Mysteries in Every Episode
Despite its profound drama and historical context, Endeavour is, above all, a model of intellectual detective fiction. Each case is a multilayered puzzle often rooted in high culture, such as opera, literature, and painting.
Morse solves crimes not with chases and gunfire but with his erudition, attention to detail, and unconventional associations. The writers provide viewers with all the necessary clues, turning the show into a captivating collaboration with Morse.
The creators of Endeavour strike a balance between complex yet elegant detective plots, deep character development, and historical accuracy.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Endeavour'?
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Endeavour has 90% from critics and 92% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the series has a score of 8.6/10.
Where to Watch 'Endeavour'?
Endeavour is available to stream on Prime Video.
