Scott & Bailey (2011)

Scott and Bailey is one of my all time favorite police procedural shows, right up there with Vera and Shetland. I expect no different from Sally Wainwright, who created the show based on an idea by one of the leads, Suranne Jones.

It reminds me of the U.S. show Cagney and Lacey, for those older viewers or those who watch reruns. It features two female partners, one who is a family oriented woman and the other an edgy and impulsive gal.

The shows have some cases that move through multiple episodes but some plots are wrapped up more quickly. The two detectives have their ups and downs, both on the job and off. They make mistakes, but between the standard police footwork and occasional brilliance, they do okay.

It is a great cast, with the leads Suranne Jones and Lesley Sharp, who I have enjoyed in many roles. They are supported by the excellent Sally Lindsay and Amelia Bullmore. Plus two of the most memorable characters appear in a more limited way, played by Kevin Doyle and Nicola Walker, who are pitch perfect in their roles.

Yes, I know I have gone through a long list of names, but I am just so impressed with the group they put together, and I didn’t even mention Ruport Graves and — okay, I will stop now. Did I mention it is a great show?