Vera Complete Series Sets 1-7 Collection on DVD ( 2018) – Mystery & Thrillers, Brenda Blethyn

What’s it about

As played by two-time Oscar nominee Brenda Blethyn (Pride & Prejudice, Atonement), Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope is ¡°nothing less than a TV institution¡± (Mail on Sunday, UK). In this collection of Sets 1-7, the caustic but brilliant detective solves horrendous crimes in the remote corners of rural Northumberland. Aided by right-hand man DS Joe Ashworth (David Leon, RocknRolla) and later by troubled DS Aiden Healy (Kenny Doughty, Stella), Vera contends with the untamed evil that lurks below the surface and exposes the demons that plague even those who dedicate their lives to good. Based on the bestselling novels of Ann Cleeves, this atmospheric drama delivers compelling characters, superb performances, and suspenseful mysteries. Guest stars include Phyllis Logan (Downton Abbey), Julie Graham (The Bletchley Circle), Rose Leslie (Game of Thrones), John Lynch (The Fall), Gina McKee (Notting Hill), Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones), and Judy Parfitt (Call the Midwife).

I cannot give enough stars to the spectacular acting ability of the star of this show, Brenda Blethyn. She is the mistress/master of understatement. There is not an ounce of ham in her performances. In addition, the other actors do a splendid job as well. I do like the Ann Cleeves books upon which these dramas are based. The plots and characterizations are believable as true to life. Vera herself is someone with whom I can identify in many ways, especially as an independent woman who needs her solitude. She can be quite charming if motivated but she does not need the approval of the crowd in order to trudge on through life.

The story is set in Northumberland. Vera is a homicide investigator, crusty and brusque, intuitive . . . but still human enough to recognize and feel pain. The mysteries are wonderfully convoluted- I haven’t been able to spot the bad guy before she does so far, but I’ll definitely keep trying.

I just really love Vera, I love everything about this series.
A person cannot go wrong with watching this show.
I can¡¯t give her enough credit for the roll this character stands for.
All of the actors do a great job in their rolls.