MIDSOMER MURDERS MERCHANDISE

AUSTRALIAN DVD RELEASES

REVIEW OF MADMAN ENTERTAINMENT BOX SETS
BY MATTHEW LEE

 
Midsomer Murders is a curious series. Like death, it stalks its unsuspecting victims with a quiet and understated gait, waiting for the right moment to strike. For some, the programme has been largely overlooked. Something that's always in the schedules and popular with the Americans. Like Taggart, comforting to know it's there but not necessarily everyone's cup of tea. For others, it has become something of a regular slice of what many of us (of a certain age) now refer to as "quality television".

 

Carved out of that bygone era of reliably sound, entertaining British Television, the series is set in picture-postcard Marple-esque village life. Here, one can gently wake to the lilting sounds of trundling bicycles, twittering birdsong and the Church bell resonating across the village green. Draw comfort from that, as there's a rather healthy dose of incest, rivalry, bitching, hatred, avarice, suicide and murderous spite going on in those cottages with roses around the doors.

 

This place could win the Queen's Award for Industry for homicide alone, with a deliciously high body count delivered in a rich variety of ways, means and mind-bending motives. For every high-profile guest star who finishes up with curled toes and the occasional pitchfork in the ribs, there's another the following week to watch with unbridled relish. Midsomer Murders is a repertory company for those actors you grew up with, followed from small screen to big screen and back again; the series enjoys the cream of the crop of guest stars and makes for such a fun time in front of the box (how often can anyone really say that these days?).

 

Such is the popularity of this quiet achiever, this relatively unsung television hero, that even Sir Roger Moore (a big fan of the programme) has been asking for the chance to match wits with the local constabulary. ITC fans must be rubbing their hands together with glee at the prospect.

 

With the recent announcement that John Nettles is to retire from the series in 2010, it's the right time to review the Midsomer Murders range of DVD boxed sets from Madman Entertainment (who recently recorded a commentary with Nettles and his on-screen wife, Jane Wymark, as moderated by television and film aficionado Henry Holland, for their 2009 releases).

 

Madman Entertainment offer good value prices for their Midsomer Murders boxed sets (of which this review will cover the first 10 available, with Season 11 and 12 boxed sets scheduled for release) and come with a nice array of special features and extras.

 

The Madman Entertainment DVD sets are in sturdy boxes (housing amaray cases) with an excellent use of photographic material made available, and most importantly every film in the series is a Region Free release (unlike their UK and US region-locked counterparts). Picture and sound quality are customarily excellent, and the correct aspect ratios are preserved for these presentations.

 

You don't need to call for the forensic pathologist to work out that it's good value for a quality product. Let's investigate &ldots;

 

Publicity

Nothing is quite as it seems behind the closed doors of Midsomer County's chocolate box cottages and picture perfect English countryside, as Inspector Barnaby soon discovers. Murder and mayhem abound in this highly acclaimed British whodunit based on the character created by Caroline Graham.

 

COMPLETE SEASON 1

Disc 1

Case 1 - The Killings At Badger's Drift

Case 2 - Written In Blood

 

Further Investigation:

There's a rather neat touch to the main menus on these dvds, with Play All, Select A Murder or Further Investigation on offer for the viewer as the distinctive signature tune plays over a series of clips from the episodes featured on each disc. As is the ongoing tradition with Madman Entertainment DVDs, there are also a fine selection of soundbytes to accompany the chapter selection of later episodes featured in this impressive run of boxed sets.

 

Grant Taylor's Production Notes take the form of a Midsomer Murders Insert Booklet for this first boxed set, beautifully illustrated and featuring an overview of Murderous Intentions (a background to how the series came to be), Inspecting Barnaby (a profile on John Nettles and Daniel Casey and their television personas), Finding Midsomer (location hunting for the series) and Many More Murders (with a delicious chronicle of the high fatality rate of the district and some of the many awards the programme has gleaned over the years).

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: The Killings At Badgers Drift (5 pictures) and Written In Blood (4 pictures).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 52 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence (mute as presented here) is a rather fun "Make Your Own Midsomer Murder" treat in which the Marple-esque title-card opening sequence, and the sequences over which later captioned episodes, stars, production crew, etc, were overlaid, appeared in these episodes for the series.

 

Biographies contains talent profiles on John Nettles (3 pages), Emily Mortimer (2 pages), Jonathan Firth (2 pages), Julian Glover (4 pages), Una Stubbs (2 pages), Anna Massey (2 pages) and David Troughton (3 pages).

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Death Of A Hollow Man

Case 4 - Faithful Unto Death

 

Further Investigation:

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Death Of A Hollow Man (5 pictures) and Faithful Unto Death (3 pictures).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 41 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence (mute as presented here) contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid in these episodes for the series.

 

Biographies contains talent profiles on Daniel Casey (2 pages), Janine Duvitski (3 pages), Sarah Badel (2 pages), Bernard Hepton (2 pages), Tessa Peake-Jones (2 pages) and Michele Dotrice (2 pages).

 

Disc 3

Case 5 - Death In Disguise

Midsomer Murders - The Inside Story

 

Further Investigation:

Running to 8 minutes and 30 seconds, the rather pregnant Julia Carling-presented Hallmark Channel featurette, Midsomer Murders - The Inside Story is part "Hallmark Channel is rather good", part "Midsomer Murders is even better". It's a rather neat introduction to the series, with interviews from primary cast and crew fleshing out a tasty background to Midsomer Murders and its appeal. There's a neat aside from Nettles about a naked body completely overlooked in the editing of an episode, Sarah Hellings makes a strong contribution and Daniel Casey tells a rather good "recasting" story. A neat addition to a worthy set.

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episode featured on this disc, Death In Disguise (5 pictures).

 

Running to 51 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence (mute as presented here) contains the sequence over which the episode caption for cast and crew were overlaid for "Death In Disguise".

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Jane Wymark (2 pages), Laura Howard (1 page), Caroline Graham (2 pages), Brian True-May (2 pages) and Judy Cornwell (2 pages).

 

COMPLETE SEASON 2

Disc 1

Case 1 - Death's Shadow

Case 2 - Strangler's Wood

 

Further Investigation:

You can tell that DVD Producer Grant Taylor has an obvious relish for this fine series: the inclusion of a Foldout Collectable Midsomer Map (subtitled "The Deadliest County in England") is such fun! Opening to an advertisement for the "Fox And Goose Hotel And Restaurant" in Midsomer Worthy (complete with telephone numbers and a nice line in design and iconography, the map itself folds out to present Midsomer County in all its lethal splendor, complete with Castles, Farms and other "Places of Interest" as outlined on the back. Suspiciously, there doesn't seem to be any cemeteries marked on the map &ldots;

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Death's Shadow (15 pictures) and Strangler's Wood (12 pictures).

 

Running to 1 minute and 46 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence (presented with sound and appropriate vision hereafter) contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Richard Briers, Julian Wadham, Vivian Pickles, Phyllis Logan and Frank Windsor (all consisting of 2 pages each).

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Blood Will Out

Case 4 - Beyond The Grave

 

Further Investigation:

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Blood Will Out (12 pictures) and Beyond The Grave (14 pictures).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 54 second, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Kevin McNally, Rowena Cooper, Cheryl Campbell, Prunella Scales and James Laurenson (all consisting of 2 pages each).

 

COMPLETE SEASON 3

Disc 1

Case 1 - Dead Man's Eleven

Case 2 - Death Of A Stranger

 

Further Investigation:

In a delightful change to the main menus for this excellent presentation of the series, threatening storm clouds are brewing behind a still of Barnaby and Troy, which flickers as clips from these episodes are played out accompanied by the signature tune.

 

In a departure from previous outings for Madman Entertainment's Midsomer mayhem, viewers can choose a Set-Up option before viewing the films which affords the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery". What fun!

 

"Classic Mysteries Of Blackmail, Betrayal And Murder" hail the series Midsomer Murders in the beautifully-presented Sales Brochure for the series, included in this third DVD boxed set. Containing high acclaim from the print media and critics alike, the brochure is a nice touch.

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Dead Man's Eleven (15 pictures) and Death Of A Stranger (17 pictures).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 20 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Robert Hardy, Terence Rigby, Duncan Preston and James Bolam (running to 2 pages each).

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Blue Herrings

Case 4 - Judgement Day

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Blue Herrings (18 pictures) and Judgement Day (14 pictures).

 

Running to 4 minutes and 4 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes. It's rather fun watching Timothy West steering a ride-on lawn mower out of shot just before the closure of this little treat.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Nigel Davenport, Timothy West, Hannah Gordon, Maggie Steed and Josephine Tewson. (running to 2 pages each).

 

COMPLETE SEASON 4

Disc 1

Case 1 - Garden Of Death

Case 2 - Destroying Angel

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Garden Of Death (8 pictures) and Destroying Angel(4 pictures).

 

Running to 5 minutes and 11 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlayed for these episodes. The ever-watchable Samantha Bond rounds out every penny of your money in this neat treat.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Sarah Alexander (1 page), Raymond Bowers (2 pages), Margaret Tyzack (2 pages), Rosemary Leach (4 pages), Samantha Bond (2 pages) and Tony Haygarth (5 pages, sporting a rather nasty head wound). Unlike the traditional run-of-the-mill IMDB-style listings one can find on other DVDs, here the biographical information is also neatly mixed with interviews with the cast when they appeared in Midsomer Murders.

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Electric Vendetta

Case 4 - Who Killed Cock Robin?

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Electric Vendetta (9 pictures) and Who Killed Cock Robin? (4 pictures).

 

Running to 6 minutes and 3 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Alec McCowen (3 pages), Ursula Howells (3 pages), Larry Lamb (3 pages) and Ian McNiece (enjoyed a renaissance in Doc Martin, he enjoys a 4-page profile here, with interview content).

 

Disc 3

Case 5 - Dark Autumn

Midsomer Murders - The Inside Story

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

The Julia Carling-presented Hallmark Channel featurette, Midsomer Murders - The Inside Story, is repeated here for the fourth DVD boxed set.

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of 9 publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes "Dark Autumn" as featured on this disc.

 

Running to 2 minutes and 6 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlayed for these episodes. It comes to a rather gruesome end, but is still rather fun and the signature tune is so very enjoyable.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Gillian Kearney (4 pages), Celia Imrie (4 pages) and Alan Howard (3 pages).

 

COMPLETE SEASON 5

Disc 1

Case 1 - Tainted Fruit

Case 2 - Ring Out Your Dead

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Tainted Fruit (12 pictures) and Ring Out Your Dead (18 pictures).

 

Running to 5 minutes and 34 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes. The delightful Graham Crowden, accompanied by the lilting Midsomer Murders signature tune, rounds out this neat extra.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Benjamin Whitrow (4 pages), Lucy Punch (2 pages), Gwen Taylor (3 pages) and Graham Crowden (3 pages).

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Murder On St Malley's Day

Case 4 - Market For Murder

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Writer Andrew Payne contributes an audio commentary on the episode Murder On St Malley's Day, as moderated by Jaz Wiseman. The commentary opens with the customary production detail one would expect from Wiseman, before the discussion turns to the differences between scripting a series such a Minder and that of Midsomer Murders (where the comedy elements are stronger on one end of the scale than the lighter touches of the other). The differences between character-driven narrative and crime-based thriller narrative made for interesting material, as is Payne's "Midsomer Murder Theory" that the programme is essentially a "closet period drama". British Public School is aptly discussed given the content of the episode, as is the writer's satirical take on same; John Nettles' casting as the lead garners high praise from Payne, and justly so as the programme essentially live and dies on the back of his popularity (as with Bergerac), as does their touching upon of the lovely guest cast who make their way (alive and dead) through Midsomer County. The commentary is briefly punctuated by a reference to the Holloway College as a filming location before Payne veers off on a rugby tangent; the budget of £1.3 million per episode for the series prompts an interesting (albeit brief) discussion on the high production values before the commentary turns to the picturesque postcard view of English village life the series sends out to the rest of the world. Wiseman asks an intelligent question of Payne on how he plots out an episode of the series, and Payne provides a fascinating insight into the workings of a crime-thriller writer (fans of Pie In The Sky will enjoy his take here) and his approach to scripting for the genre (David Renwick's views are similarly interesting when matched with this). Working with Script Editor Chris Penfold is discussed, as are the healthy viewing figures for the programme. The highs and lows of the body count for the series come under examination (at a time when Wiseman missed the chance to prompt Payne to discuss an on-screen location used in Jonathan Creek; he redeems himself later by recognising the location at 97 minutes into the commentary, albeit because it made an appearance in the ITC series The Baron) before the pair discuss the casting of Daniel Casey as "the anti-Lewis" Troy. Payne's experiences in British Public School return to the scene, before Wiseman asks about a "writer's bible" by which the scripts are fashioned and whether Payne attended the filming of this episode. The direction of Payne's episodes for Midsomer Murders is discussed (with a cheeky aside about product placement), the onscreen appearance of Patrick Godfrey rouses an enthusiastic appreciation from Payne, and there is a rather neat overview on the rich and interesting and varied ways that poor souls shuffle off their mortal coils in this drama. The atmospheric onscreen visualisation of the Pudding Club and the fine performances which take place during a Harry Potter-esque scene played out before them are discussed, before Payne makes for fascinating listening in a conversation on occasionally crossing the line with the drama where killings or scenes are slightly too comedic for the programme and to the audience's distaste. Halfway through the commentary, Wiseman asks Payne to discuss his second outing for the series, "Market For Murder" (which also appears on this disc) and his inspiration for that episode. Payne's ongoing work on the programme thereafter is touched upon (including a neat catalogue of his murderous plots, victims and methods of bumping people off). Wiseman misses the opportunity to open up a vein of conversation with Payne on Inspector Morse (and the fact he was never asked to write for the series) as it would have been a fascinating line of discussion on how he would have approached that type of murder mystery series as opposed to working on a more conventional series like Midsomer Murders. Curiously, Wiseman identifies the series as being extremely popular in Australia, but more so in Melbourne (not sure how accurate that is, but the coincidence of Madman Entertainment being located there can't be overlooked), before the commentary turns to the employment of flashbacks in the genre and the power of adding to the original story with tantalising additional detail (with even Dallas enjoying a subtle mention at this stage). Payne delivers a fascinating insight into using this technique (and the problems and temptations inherent with its use); Wiseman makes a slightly erroneous observation that in Midsomer Murders the murderer is always caught (they may well have been identified, but the striking difference with the series was that many of the culprits got away with their crimes by killing themselves before the law got to them) as the commentary moves on to discuss the best portrayal of an underwater corpse and "dead actors". Payne makes an interesting observation on the nature of telling a story backwards in terms of a crime-thriller, releasing portions of information about the plot along the way; the nature of teasing an audience with half-truths and small details without giving away the plot is also discussed, as is a standard linear plot employed on the series rather than several storylines running concurrently (the right density of story, where a plot isn't overcomplicated, but draws the audience in sufficiently to be challenging, is a fascinating insight into the mind of a scriptwriter). The commentary winds down with an examination of the characters' motivations throughout this entertaining Midsomer Murders outing, the motive behind what went on is discussed and the importance of an enormous silver spoon raises a smile or two. As Barnaby and Troy break the rules and walk on the grass, a workmanlike and entertaining commentary comes to an end. A worthy addition to an impressive body of work for which Madman Entertainment and DVD Producer Grant Taylor should be proud. Next up is moderator Henry Holland, joined by John Nettles and Jane Wymark for a commentary especially recorded in 2009 for a forthcoming DVD boxed set. Can't wait!

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Murder On St Malley's Day and Market For Murder (12 pictures for each outing on this occasion).

 

Running to 3 minutes and 11 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Biographies contain talent profiles on Jeremy Child (4 pages), Eamon Boland (2 pages), Angela Thorne (3 pages) and the incomparable and sorely-missed Anton Rodgers (4 pages).

 

Disc 3

Case 5 - A Worm In The Bud

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of 12 publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episode A Worm In The Bud" as featured on this disc.

 

Running to 1 minute and 17 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for the episode "A Worm In The Bud" as presented here.

 

Biographies contain 2-page talent profiles on Wendy Craig, Adam Kotz and Chris Walker.

 

COMPLETE SEASON 6

Disc 1

Case 1 - A Talent For Life

Case 2 - Death And Dreams

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: A Talent For Life (12 pictures, with Honor Blackman having the time of her life!) and Death And Dreams (11 pictures).

 

Running to 4 minutes and 25 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes. These are really an illustrated presentation of the signature tune for the series, but fun all the same.

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Painted In Blood

Case 4 - A Tale Of Two Hamlets

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Painted In Blood (12 pictures, with John Sessions having a rather artistic time of it) and A Tale Of Two Hamlets (10 pictures, opening with a very Jonathan Creek-style shot of John Nettles).

 

Running to 3 minutes and 28 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes. Such beautiful countryside and fine performances should be illegal, but given they're unfolding in the deadliest county in England, this perhaps isn't quite as surprising as it seems.

 

Disc 3

Case 5 - Birds Of Prey

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of 9 publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episode A Worm In The Bud" as featured on this disc.

 

Running to 2 minutes and 8 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for the episode "Birds Of Prey" as presented here. It's dark deeds under the cover of darkness, but such fun nonetheless.

 

COMPLETE SEASON 7

Disc 1

Case 1 - The Green Man

Case 2 - Bad Tidings

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of 8 (per episode) publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: The Green Man and Bad Tidings. The photographic work appearing here is particularly excellent.

 

Running to 2 minutes and 12 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - The Fisher King

Case 4 - Sins Of Commission

 
Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: The Fisher King (8 pictures) and Sins Of Commission (8 pictures).

 

Running to 5 minutes and 2 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes. It's peace and love to round out this particular sequence, such fun and such wonderful music!

 

Disc 3

Case 5 - The Maid In Splendour

Case 6 - The Straw Woman

Bonus Christmas Special: Ghosts of Christmas Past

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

The Christmas Special, Ghosts of Christmas Past, is included on its own disc here, having previously been made available as a single disc release in 2006. It's a rather nice touch (and more attention to detail than many other DVD producers may go to) that the signature tune for the main menu is also changed for this presentation, featuring as it does the festive variation on the theme tune. Why hasn't this series has more than one compact disc release of its soundtrack? Barnaby should be tracking down the perpetrators of that crime in itself!

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: The Maid In Splendour (8 pictures) and The Straw Woman (8 pictures).

 

The Christmas Special DVD for the episode Ghosts of Christmas Past features 8 publicity, behind-the-scenes and on-screen stills as part of its Photographic Evidence suite.

 

Running to 2 minutes and 1 second, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes. It's all very Wicker Man, but catches the eye with a fine combination of music and visuals.

 

The Textless Titles Sequence featured on the Christmas Special DVD, running to 2 minutes and 19 seconds, is a delicious slice of festive Midsomer fun and worthy of viewing. The variation on the signature tune is rather fine, and this is a particularly fine example of an episode from the series itself.

 

SEASON 8, PART ONE

Disc 1

Case 1 - Things That Go Bump In The Night

Case 2 - Dead In The Water

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Things That Go Bump In The Night (12 pictures) and Dead In The Water (12 pictures, opening as it does with a striking portrait of Adrian Lukis).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 17 seconds, this rather gruesome outing for the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Orchis Fatalis

Case 4 - Bantling Boy

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Orchis Fatalis (12 pictures, with a decidedly Murdersville Avengers taste to the caption card) and Bantling Boy (12 pictures).

 

It's a stormy and tropical start to the Textless Titles Sequence this time around, running to 3 minutes and 30 seconds and containing the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

SEASON 8, PART TWO

Disc 1

Case 5 - Second Sight

Case 6 - Hidden Depths

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Second Sight (11 pictures, featuring - amongst others - the delightful Wanda Ventham) and Bantling Boy (9 pictures).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 43 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Disc 2

Case 7 - Sauce For The Goose

Case 8 - Midsomer Rhapsody

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of 12 (per episode) publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Sauce For The Goose and Midsomer Rhapsody.

 

Running to 2 minutes and 10 seconds, the wonderful Annette Crosbie opens the Textless Titles Sequence outing here, which as always contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Although only running to 50 seconds, as an added novelty a selection of Alternate Footage is presented here, captioned as "This alternate footage from MIDSOMER RHAPSODY, created for daytime repeats of the episode, shows a less gruesome edit of the decapitation scene". Tagged as "Part 4: Alternative helmet hitting windscreen, Safety for afternoon repeats", it's a rather ghoulish Midsomer necessity included here. There is also a secondary section, tagged as "Part 4: Shot of Scott, Safety for afternoon repeats - overlength with all available handles".

 

SEASON 9, PART ONE

Disc 1

Case 1 - The House In The Woods

Case 2 - Dead Letters

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episode "The House In The Woods" as featured on this disc, running to 28 pictures. Alas, there were no stills for the episode Dead Letters.

 

Running to 1 minute and 54 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - Vixen's Run

Case 4 - Down Among The Dead Men

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of 12 (per episode) publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Vixen's Run (11 pictures) and Down Among The Dead Men (17 pictures, including a glimpse of ITV's new Miss Marple, Julia McKenzie).

 

Running to 3 minutes and 16 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence features those the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

"Extra Material For Daytime Cut" heralds more Alternate Footage to feast one's eyes upon, this time running to 59 seconds.

 

SEASON 9, PART TWO

Disc 1

Case 5 - Four Funerals And A Wedding

Case 6 - Country Matters

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Four Funerals And A Wedding (15 pictures) and Country Matters (8 pictures).

 

"And anyway, who said anything about a natural death?" starts a run of 2 minutes and 18 seconds for the Textless Titles Sequence, which as ever contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Disc 2

Case 7 - Death In Chorus

Case 8 - Last Year's Model

 

Further Investigation:

In commemoration of the landmark fiftieth episode of Midsomer Murders, aptly singing the praises of this fine series with the title "Death In Chorus", two rather nice value-added treats are included here: a Commemorative Booklet and an exclusive Midsomer Murders postcard. Running to sixteen full-colour and beautifully-illustrated pages, this booklet is a fine product from Madman Entertainment reflecting the care and presentation with which they (and DVD Producer Grant Taylor) go about their work. Loaded with a background to the series, fascinating facts on the programme and interviews with this cast, this is a treat.

 

The Midsomer Murders postcard, subtitled "The Surprisingly Lethal Bestseller", is delicious fun indeed. Send it to your best friend, your worst enemy, or maybe even someone who might just have the evil eye on them sometime soon. "Having a wonderful time, but there's an awful lot of dead people here &ldots;" perhaps?

 

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: Death In Chorus (12 pictures) and Last Year's Model (7 pictures, featuring a lively Saskia Wickham).

 

Beware of your cheating heart in the latest outing of Textless Title Sequences. Running to 2 minutes and 39 seconds, this special feature rolls out the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

SEASON 10, PART ONE

Disc 1

Case 1 - Dance With The Dead

Case 2 - The Animal Within

 

Further Investigation:

Originally made available as a stand-alone exclusive DVD release. Super Sleuth: Midsomer Murders is featured here as a bonus disc on this impressive set. Hailed as "Midsomer Murders has been the biggest drama export out of the UK, becoming one of the most successful mysteries both in its domestic market and overseas. This special documentary examines Inspector Barnaby, his methods and techniques of investigation, from his time in the original novels through his translation to television. Super Sleuth goes behind the scenes on Midsomer Murders including interviews with John Nettles (Barnaby), Daniel Casey (Troy), Jane Wymark (Joyce Barnaby) and Laura Howard (Cully Barnaby), plus series producer Brian True-May, script writer Anthony Horowitz and novelist Caroline Graham", this special feature runs to 47 minutes and is an impressively entertaining extra containing a solid balance of anecdotal accounts along with production insights.

 

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: The House In The Woods (12 pictures) and Dead Letters (12 pictures).

 

Running to 3 minutes and 13 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence opens with music to methane by, and also contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

"Additional Scenes For Daytime Cut Downs - First Frame Was 11:43:00:00" heralds another outing for the alternate footage which makes this supremely enjoyable series a moveable feast of treats in any timeslot. Running to 4 minutes and 46 seconds, the feature also contains footage marked "Additional Shots For Daytime Repeats".

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - King's Crystal

Case 4 - The Axeman Cometh

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: King's Crystal (7 pictures) and The Axeman Cometh (12 pictures).

 

Running to 3 minutes, there's a distinctly Oriental feel to the start of this Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

SEASON 10, PART TWO

Disc 1

Case 1 - Death And Dust

Case 2 - Picture Of Innocence

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: They Seek Him Here (7 pictures, including a rather ageing Roj Blake) and Death In A Chocolate Box (8 pictures).

 

Running to 2 minutes and 2 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes.

 

Disc 2

Case 3 - They Seek Him Here

Case 4 - Death In A Chocolate Box

 

Further Investigation:

The Set-Up option continues on this DVD, providing viewers with the option of either watching the episodes with their original commercial-break captions intact, or "removed for un-interrupted mystery".

 

Photographic Evidence presents a series of publicity stills, behind the scenes photographic work and snapshots from the episodes as featured on this disc, thus: They Seek Him Here (12 pictures) and Death In A Chocolate Box (12 pictures, including your friendly postal delivery man, Arnold J Rimmer).

 

Running to 3 minutes and 51 seconds, the Textless Titles Sequence contains the sequences over which the episode captions for cast and crew were overlaid for these episodes

 
WITH THANKS TO MATTHEW LEE WHO HAS KINDLY LET ME USE THIS EXCELLENT REVIEW

 

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