Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, Series 1

The colonials prove themselves a match for their former rulers in this series based on the books by Kerry Greenwood about Phryne Fisher, a stylish 1920s society woman who is a formidable amateur sleuth. Although it feels very much like the period mysteries that the British have turned into a cottage industry, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries is set in Melbourne, was made by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and features actors who are among the best from Down Under. Fisher is played by Essie Davis, who certainly captures the character's proto-feminist personality and air of self-confidence, although at times she comes uncomfortably close to smugness. Davis is backed by an ensemble of colorful supporting players, including Miriam Margolyes in a recurring role as Aunt Prudence. The scripts are traditional (mostly murder cases), but a running plotline concerns the disappearance of Fisher's sister and the criminal she believes is responsible—a man whose escape from prison makes for an exciting finale. Compiling all 13 episodes from the 2012 first season, extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, cast interviews, a set tour, and a photo gallery. Recommended. (F. Swietek)