Kath Marsh

If I had never watched Death in Paradise or Beyond Paradise, I probably would be more positive about this show. DI Clarke tries to emulate the mannerisms of DI Poole and Goodman that made these shows quirky and not your usual crime drama. In my opinion, it seems forced and not natural in comparison, making viewing a let down. Still it might get better a few episodes in. After all, I found the change between each DI in the original Death in Paradise a letdown, but warmed to each. Might be the same here. It's also difficult to swallow the small town, hillbilly approach to policing. It was a bit over the top. Maybe you could imagine this is how investigations pan out in the Caribbean, but it's difficult to gel with in an Australian setting. If this was set in the 90s (ie same era as the original Seachange) it would be somewhat believable and relatable. Something you could laugh with. I don't think this works anymore in 2024. Our country towns are a lot more mature. The show would be better if they used these quirks in a more subtle way like in Doctor, Doctor. I think overseas audiences will find this funnier than Australian audiences.