DVD Review - Vera, Set 3

Returning to record ratings in the U.K. in 2013, the third series of the acclaimed British mystery series, Vera, Set 3, makes its DVD debut on January 28, 2014, from Acorn, an RLJ Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: RLJE) brand. Based on the award-winning novels by Ann Cleeves (Duncan Lawrie Dagger Award winner), the ITV series stars two-time Oscar® nominee Brenda Blethyn (Little Voice, Secrets & Lies, Pride & Prejudice, Atonement) as a cantankerous but brilliant detective. In these four new feature-length mysteries, Blethyn imbues DCI Vera Stanhope with “a monumental intelligence” (The Guardian) as she solves unthinkable crimes. Broadcast on ITV in August 2013, the series made its North American debut in October on Acorn TV; the first British TV focused streaming service at www.Acorn.TV. Garnering a devout legion of fans, the series is broadcast continuously on public television and has a fourth series in the works. This DVD 4-disc set includes four mysteries, plus bonus photo gallery and text interviews with Brenda Blethyn and David Leon ($59.99, AcornOnline.com).

Patrolling her patch of northeast England, Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope resolutely pursues the truth in cases of murder, kidnapping, and blackmail. While her manner is sometimes caustic, her single-mindedness gets results. Vera is supported by her trusted team, including right-hand man Detective Sergeant Joe Ashworth (David Leon, RocknRolla). A family man, Ashworth is ever trying to strike a balance between home and work. Meanwhile, forensic pathologist Billy Cartwright (Paul Ritter, The Eagle) and Detective Constable Kenny Lockhart (Jon Morrison, High Times) tend to bring out the scathing side of their boss. Guest stars include Saskia Reeves (Luther), Dean Andrews (Life on Mars), and Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones).

Episodes: Castles in the Air, Poster Child, Young Gods, Prodigal Son

Street: Jan. 28, 2014                         SRP: $59.99              

DVD 4-Disc Set: Approx. 369 min. – 4 episodes – British mystery - SDH subtitles - UPC 0-54961-2023-9-3 - ISBN 978-1-62172-023-2 - Contains disturbing images

Bonus: Photo gallery and text interviews with Brenda Blethyn and David Leon

 

 My Thoughts

Vera is an exiting series that features a strong female lead in the role of detective Vera Stanhope. Series 3 includes four thrilling new episodes.

Disc 1

Episode 1:  Hidden Depths

There might be a serial killer on the lose when two unrelated victims are both found murdered with their bodies left in odd poses. Vera must track down the killer before he finds his third victim and continues the pattern.

Disc 2

Episode 2:  Telling Tales

Vera takes on a cold case. A woman named Jeanie was locked up a decade ago for a murder she swears she didn't commit. Now Vera has reason to believe she really is innocent and the true killer is about to pick up where they left off.

Disc 3

Episode 3:  The Crow Trap

A large corporation is starting construction on an old quarry, but many local residents aren't happy about it. One woman refuses to turn over her land, and she turns up dead not long after they break ground. Now Vera must figure out who is willing to kill for this project and why.

Disc 4

Episode 4:  Little Lazarus

This was an especially touching episode. After a woman is brutally murdered,Vera takes her son under her wig. The little boy has many disturbing memories, and Vera must break through in order to bring this mother's killer to justice. It was interesting to see the normally standoffish Vera reaching out to the child.

I absolutely love this series.  The mysteries and always unique and original and every episode is brimming over with suspense and subtle British humor. However, there is a lot of violence and graphic imagery, so this series is definitely for mature audience only.

If you want to take advantage a whole set of great mysteries, this is the series for you. You can order Vera, Set 3 on DVD for only $59.99 at Acorn Media.