Fans of detective dramas are celebrating the BBC series Strike, calling it a 'masterpiece' and even comparing it favourably to Sherlock. The show, based on J.K. Rowling's Cormoran Strike novels written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, is set to return later this year for its seventh season.
Plot and Characters
Strike follows Cormoran Strike, a war veteran turned private detective, played by Tom Burke. Operating from a modest office on London's Denmark Street, Strike uses his unique insights and background as an SIB Investigator to solve complex cases that have baffled the police. He is joined by his assistant, Robin Ellacott, portrayed by Holliday Grainger, who starts as a temporary secretary but soon becomes an integral part of the investigative team.
The series has aired six seasons, with all 19 episodes available on BBC iPlayer. Each season adapts one of the novels: The Cuckoo's Calling, The Silkworm, Career of Evil, Lethal White, Troubled Blood, and The Ink Black Heart.
Upcoming Season: The Running Grave
After a four-year hiatus, Strike returns with season seven, titled The Running Grave. The new episodes see Strike and Robin investigating a couple's missing son, Will, who has joined a religious cult in Norfolk. Robin goes undercover at the cult's headquarters, Chapman Farm, while Strike gathers information from former members. The synopsis teases that solving the mystery of the Drowned Prophet's death is key, but leads the detectives into dangerous territory.
Fan Praise
Viewers have lauded the series since its debut. One IMDb reviewer called it 'an absolute masterpiece that seamlessly blends suspense, intrigue, and brilliant storytelling.' Another wrote: 'The Cuckoo's Calling is extraordinary, with a stellar cast and impressive performances. The chemistry between the protagonists is stupendously grandiose.'
A third fan described it as an 'edge-of-your-seat crime thriller' and one of the best crime dramas, while another said: 'This is a total joy. Robin and Strike are utterly flawless.' A fifth added: 'Compulsive viewing. The plots and production values are impeccable, but it's the performances and character play that are key.'
Strike is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
