Mikes Film Talk

Five episodes into Beyond Paradise season 2 shows a series that clearly surpasses the original; Death in Paradise. It is not surprising. Kris Marshall was popular in the long running series set in the Caribbean. His decision to leave the sandy shores of Saint Marie ultimately lead to this spin-off. Set on the southwest coast of England the show features more country folk than islanders. Although to be fair, Beyond Paradise is still taking place on an island.

move over darling

Marshall’s Detective Inspector Goodman chose romance over his Caribbean Inspector duties and returned to take up the romantic reins offered by Martha Lloyd. The lovely briton, played by Sally Bretton created some hesitant sparks with Humphrey. It was no surprise that the DI was intent on following his instincts. His departure then left an opening for DI Mooney, played to perfection by Father Ted regular Ardal O’Hanlon.

Next up for the role of imported DI was, of course, Ralf Little AKA Neville Parker. After a four year stint, Parker has now vacated Saint Marie. This leaves an opening that some pundits say will be filled by Simon Bird (The Inbetweeners.)

Of course it goes without saying that the first DI to grace Saint Marie, Richard Poole (Ben Miller) was arguably the best detective and there were wails of anguish when the actor decided to move on. His Englishman abroad was sheer perfection.

back and beyond

Heading back to Beyond Paradise as it quickly winds its way toward another season finale, it seems that this homegrown slice of DI life is the winner. Not that there is a contest, but, in terms of longevity it may be just as easy to sustain as its forerunner “DiP.” And as yet, there are no grumbles about cast members, an issue that has, apparently, plagued the original.

While being set in Devon, the show is actually filmed in Looe, part of Cornwall. The seaside village is picturesque and a favourite spot for families to holiday there. Although in the current and previous episode, the tide had gone out and the boats were stranded on that mildly disgusting mud and seaweed. So much for beauty.

One bright spot in the season 2 guest list was Peter Davidson. A Mike’s Film Talk favourite since his turn as Tristan Farnan, the younger brother, and “Jack the lad” character, of Siegfried. *Side note: This series, based on the It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vet, et al, ran from 1978 to 1990. It still entertains enough that I have assiduously avoided the remake. Despite having the late Dame Diana Rigg in it.

Beyond Paradise

This show could, with due care, run as long as its Caribbean counterpart. If they continue to have the type calibre of guest stars and focus solidly on Humphrey and Martha as well as the villagers themselves it should be a clear win. Character arcs should provide entertainment for quite some time. And the show’s actors never disappoint:

The show can be seen on BritBox or Amazon. Check out the teaser trailer for season 2 below.