Trial & Retribution: Set 1

Advertised on the box as a British Law & Order, this TV series from Prime Suspect creator Lynda La Plante is both much grittier and less twisty than its American counterpart—as well as considerably longer, with the four two-part episodes included in the set (dating from 1997-2000) running approximately 200 minutes each. Of course, the extended time allows the filmmakers ample opportunity to cover in detail the crime itself, investigation leading up to an arrest, and machinations of the prosecution and defense, while also enabling the two leads—David Hayman as chief investigator Mike Walker and Kate Buffery as second-in-command Pat North—to develop their characters into rounded individuals with distinct strengths and flaws. In addition, excellent guest performers are featured as the accused: Rhys Ifans, Iain Glen, Richard E. Grant, and James Wilby. Trial & Retribution uses the split-screen technique—now commonly seen on 24—to depict simultaneous events, effectively ratcheting up the tension. An increased emphasis on a domestic relationship between Walker and North in the final two episodes is somewhat distracting, but otherwise this series serves up excellent police procedural entertainment. DVD extras include an interview with La Plante. Highly recommended. (F. Swietek)