Have always been a big fan of detective/mystery shows from a fairly young age, well since starting secondary school.
'Inspector Morse', 'A Touch of Frost', 'Midsomer Murders' (in its prime), 'Law and Order', 'Inspector George Gently', 'Criminal Minds', 'Murder She Wrote', you name them to name a few. 'New Tricks' has also been a favourite from the start (despite not being the same without the original cast in recent years). Although it can be corny at times (in an endearing sort of way) it has always been perfect for helping me relax in the evenings. Something that was needed during all the hard times endured in school.
Season 4 is to me one of the best and most consistent seasons of 'New Tricks', dipping only with the still strong "Father's Pride". It ends with a bang with "Big Topped". While the case is very interesting and keeps one interesting, there is classic team rapport and some never less than amusing humour, it's Sandra's personal life that the episode really excels in. It really hits home and tugs at the heart-strings, it is very difficult to not feel sorry for Sandra here and one can understand her upset and anger.
Visually, "Big Topped" is slick and stylish as ever. The music is a good fit and the theme song (sung with gusto by none other by Dennis Waterman himself) is one of the catchiest for any detective/mystery show and of any show in the past fifteen years or so.
Writing is intelligent, thought-provoking and classy, while also being very funny and high up in the entertainment value. This is all mixed adeptly with a seriousness without being overly so that it doesn't feel like 'New Tricks'. The story is fun, diverting and keeps one guessing.
A huge part of 'New Tricks' appeal is the chemistry between the four leads and their performances. The chemistry is so easy going and charming with a little tension.
One of the show's biggest delights is Alun Armstrong, achieves a perfect balance of funny comic timing and touching pathos which was maintained all the way up to his final episode. It is also lovely here to see his role in the team and skills appreciated more all the time. James Bolam's Jack is the quietest, most sensible (mostly) and most composed of the team, with a tragic personal life that Bolam portrays very touchingly without any overwrought-ness.
The only woman on the team, Amanda Redman more than holds her own in what is essentially the boss role of the four. Dennis Waterman brings some nice levity without unbalancing things.
"Big Topped" has as ever strong supporting turns from Anthony Calf and Susan Jameson (her chemistry with Armstrong as always is delightful) while Sheila Hancock's performance in particular is a moving one, really making an impact with not as much screen time.
Overall, Season 4 ends with a bang. 10/10 Bethany Cox