MTM - Murdoch Mysteries

Since the Genies were on this weekend, and they were bemoaning the lack of theatres that show Canadian movies, and since we ought to laud Canadan shows...I thought I would choose a TV Series that features my old town, Toronto. Maureen Jennings, author of the Murdoch Mysteries, has done a fine job on the novels.

This TV series might appeal to those who like mysteries sans blood, guts and gore, quite disparate some of the popular US shows, which I watch! You can check out the official Murdoch Mysteries website here. (Although I think it a somewhat over done web page - for a show set in a simpler time! Not to mention high download times.)

Set in the late 1890s this seems an inventive facet. It is a complication for the police detective who wants to move into more science-based solutions to crime and Inspector Brackenreid who pooh-poohs such modern notions! As they introduce us to a new 'scientific' theories of 'finger marks' (fingerprinting!), blood spatter, toxicology, and lie detector tests, I find it interesting to look into the past. If you like such mystery, with the emphasis on intellect, you might try the Brother Cadfael DVDs.

With a very CSI-like framework, it is a very non-Hollywood take on a simpler time with carefully procured props, fine costuming, and a refined sense of humour. The coroner, acted by Hélène Joy, is a lovely, gentile but bright female, leaving just the slightest hint of romantic interest -- much different than the toned arms and cleavage, and raw sexual content of the new millennium.

I quite enjoy the accents, as well. My son, Jesse Martyn - the actor, having had to master the linguistic timbre of the UK for his professional work, I like to listen to the gentle tones of the various actors.

Murdoch Mysteries have been set in Toronto, and many of Barbara Martin's historical posts and photos remind us of this time. Wikipedia says there is filming in Hamilton and Cambridge, and they seek a new film location since the Toronto location is now closed. The city has changed much and the filmmakers must be hard-pressed to find the fine, old buildings of old, without skyscrapers in the back ground!

The photo above is the old Post Office, I worked there in 1974. To the left is the semi-detached house I grew up in in downtown Toronto. The street, Walker Ave., was named for a great-great grandfather, the homes built on his farm land over 150 years ago. We played ball on the front lawns. Ah, but that is another time, long ago!