Rating: 
Summary: Incredibly Disappointing Compared to the Books
Review: I've been reading and thoroughly enjoying the Inspector Lynley mysteries. When I saw that PBS was offering the videos on Mystery! I decided to give them a try, even though I typically am disappointed by the conversion of books to movies. These movies do not even remotely due justice to the characters or stories. Elizabeth George treats us to wonderful character descriptions, and extremely well written interactions between the suspects and Inspector Lynley and Sgt. Havers, and between Thomas Lynely and Barbara Havers. The differences in their class, their financial situations and just the way they see the world is as important as who done it and why. All of this is missing from the movies. Worst of all is the pathetic summing up of who the killer is and their motive. "For the Sake of Elena" concluded with such a weak version of the motive, that if I hadn't read the book I would have thought that the screenwriter couldn't come up with a reason. In "Payment in Blood" the real reason for Inspector Lynley's assignment to the case is never revealed. In the book the reason and the consequence is very important, serves to be quite a red herring, and provides greater understanding of the main characters motivation. The actors portrayal of Inspector Lynley and Sgt. Havers are adequate, but don't capture the struggle, anger, frustration, and growing respect that exist between the two. This series could have been so much better. Ninety minutes is insufficient time to capture the depth of the books. I suggest saving your money and purchasing the books instead. Or if you've read the books, don't waste your time with these movies which are mere shadows of the story.
Rating: 
Summary: Not The Books, Okay!
Review: Yes, the first episode was longer and really fleshed out the characters, etc. But this is made for tv. Unless you're willing to pony up the money for longer adaptations, why don't you either stick to the books, or focus on what these episodes have to offer. I have really enjoyed the books and these episodes. The books give you nice insights and wit. These adaptations keep much of the intelligence and wit. The actors who play Lynley and Havers are spot on and a real joy to watch. If you're capable of distinguishing apples from oranges, you'll enjoy these tv episodes. I hope they make more of them!
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