The BBC crime drama 'Rebus' has achieved a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, positioning it as a strong competitor to acclaimed series like Line of Duty and Shetland. The show, which premiered in the UK in May 2024, is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
Plot and Cast
Based on Sir Ian Rankin's Inspector Rebus novels, the series follows Detective John Rebus, played by Richard Rankin. The first season consists of six episodes, each averaging 45 minutes. The plot centres on Rebus facing off against an Edinburgh gangster while navigating a changing workplace and the aftermath of his divorce. The official synopsis states: '40-year-old police detective John Rebus finds himself at a psychological crossroads following an altercation with an Edinburgh gangster.'
The supporting cast includes Lucie Shorthouse, Thoren Ferguson, Caroline Lee-Johnson, Sean Buchanan, and Michelle Duncan. The series is written by Gregory Burke and co-directed by Niall MacCormick and Fiona Walton, with Rankin and Burke serving as executive producers.
Critical Acclaim
The show has garnered widespread praise. One critic noted: 'With so much going on, Rebus has to juggle a lot of different elements – but it’s a testament to the show and the strong performances that it all hangs together.' Another reviewer highlighted Richard Rankin's performance: 'Part of what makes this Rebus so alluring is down to the beautifully concise manner in which the actor who plays him conveys his haphazard competence, his stoicism and feral endurance. He is so believable.'
Audience reactions have been equally positive. An IMDB user wrote: 'That's the best crime drama I've seen for ages. Complex and realistic story telling, excellent acting from all involved. Quality story telling.' Another fan declared: 'A MUST WATCH! What a brilliant modern day version based on incredible books, can't wait for the 2nd series! Richard Rankin shines as Rebus.'
Comparison to Previous Adaptations
This is not the first television adaptation of Rankin's novels. A previous version aired on ITV in April 2000, starring John Hannah and later Ken Stott as Inspector Rebus. That series remains popular and is available on Channel 4. However, the 2024 adaptation has been praised as superior by many viewers. One review stated: 'This reimagining of Sir Ian Rankin's classic Inspector Rebus novels is a stroke of genius. In the same way Sherlock reinvigorated the novels of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, a younger Detective Sergeant John Rebus gives the drama a whole new lease of life.'
Future Seasons
Due to its popularity, Rebus has been renewed for a second season, set to premiere in 2027. Fans of crime dramas such as Taggart, Karen Pirie, Shetland, and Dougray Scott's Crime are expected to add this series to their watchlist.
