PBS, known for its high-quality programming, often features exceptional shows originating from the United Kingdom. This June, three British originals stand out: the mystery dramas ‘Grantchester’ and ‘D.I. Ray,’ along with the documentary ‘Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution.’
Grantchester
If you’re familiar with the American series ‘Father Dowling Mysteries,’ ‘Grantchester’ offers a more dramatic take on the crime-solving priest theme. Set in Britain during the 1950s, the show is entering its ninth season, taking place in 1961. This season marks Tom Brittney’s final appearance as Reverend William Davenport, but he’s still got mysteries to solve alongside his longtime friend, Detective Inspector Geordie Keating (Robson Green). As Brittney departs, a new leading man, Vicar Alphy Kotteram (Rishi Nair), is introduced. Alphy will acclimate to Grantchester and attempt to win over the hearts of the locals as their new priest, likely solving some mysteries along the way.
D.I. Ray
The United Kingdom seems to have a knack for exporting captivating detective dramas. Parminder Nagra, known for her roles in ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ and ‘ER,’ stars in ‘D.I. Ray,’ which is back for a second season on PBS. The new season picks up with Detective Inspector Rachita Ray (Nagra) recovering from a scandal involving her fiancé’s ties to the criminal underworld, leaving her reputation tarnished. Rachita returns from suspension when the murder of crime family head Frank Chapman ignites a gang war with widespread consequences. Everyone suspects the Chapmans’ rivals, the Mochanis, are behind Frank’s death. However, as Rachita digs deeper, the answers prove more complex than initially anticipated.
Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution
Disco, once a cultural phenomenon, has become somewhat of a punchline in the music world since its peak in the 1970s. But nostalgia remains a powerful force, and disco still has a dedicated fan base nearly five decades after its supposed demise. ‘Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution’ is a three-part miniseries that delves into the history of disco through the eyes of those who lived it. The miniseries chronicles the rise of disco in the early 1970s, culminating in its decline in 1979. Featuring interviews with iconic figures like Victor Willis of The Village People, Nona Hendryx from Labelle, and Early Young from The Trammps, the series provides a glimpse into a music sensation that briefly held global influence before facing inevitable backlash. For those who have ever enjoyed disco music, ‘Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution’ offers a fascinating trip down memory lane, utilizing footage from the era itself.
