Arthur and George

Arthur and George is a thrilling, three-part drama series that first aired on PBS in 2015. Adapted from Julian Barnes’s 2005 novel of the same name, this British production distinctly stands out among a wide array of period dramas, thanks to its intriguing blend of socio-cultural themes and a captivating whodunnit mystery. The series is set against the backdrop of Edwardian England and has been inspired by a series of real-life events in the life of the renowned creator of Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. In this miniseries, viewers follow the life of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle as interpreted by the brilliant Martin Clunes, best known for his role in the British television comedy series 'Doc Martin.' It tells the story of Doyle's real-life quest to clear the name of George Edalji – an Anglo-Indian solicitor who was falsely accused and imprisoned for the Great Wyrley Outrages in 1903. George is portrayed by the versatile Arsher Ali, who skillfully brings to life the oft-misunderstood figure condemned by an undeniably discriminatory society. The series opens with an intriguing premise and quickly draws you into the world of the characters. Doyle, recently bereaved after the death of his wife, is struggling with guilt over his feelings for his secretary, Jean Leckie. To add depth and dimension to an already emotionally fraught narrative, we see him grappling with his fame as the creator of the world's most brilliant detective while himself yearning for some adrenaline-pumping adventures, away from the confines of his literary pursuits. This is where George Edalji's case fits in, proving to be a potent distraction as well as an opportunity for Doyle to rid himself of the 'armchair detective' reputation. George Edalji's predicament forms the heart of the narrative. Desperately asserting his innocence in crimes of mutilating livestock, he writes to Doyle, seeking his invaluable assistance. The suspicion against him owes largely to the racism brimming in the Victorian society of the time, coupled with his own peculiar nature and half-Indian heritage. This series provides an interesting exploration into the resolutely innate systemic racism entrenched in British law and society, highlighting the harsh prejudices that ethnic minorities faced during this period. What ensoubles Arthur and George is the spot-on performance of the main leads who bring a refreshing and substantial layer of credibility to their characters. Martin Clunes impeccably adopts the mannerisms and personality of Conan Doyle, capturing his every facial tick and emotional nuance with exceptional precision. Arsher Ali doesn’t lag behind either; he portrays George with a quiet dignity, deeply and poignantly expressing his character's inner turmoil. Their interactions gradually reveal the growing bond between the two men, and the disappointing reality of an increasingly prejudiced society. Doyle's determination to advocate for justice in the Edalji's case, despite the seeming impossibility of the task, provides a deeply gratifying narrative arc within an otherwise bleak tale. Created with grandeur and elegance, Arthur and George boast of polished cinematography and savvy production designs that immaculately recreate an accurate setting of Edwardian England. Detailed period costumes, the backdrop of historical relevance, lavish landscapes, and the nuanced portrayal of the era's etiquette and societal norms all combine to produce a quality period drama. Where Arthur and George truly stands out is in its detailed narrative and probing exploration of issues like xenophobia, justice, and faith. The series also builds suspense through its investigative segments, clearly having some fun with viewers’ familiarity with Conan Doyle's best-known detective works. The role of Jean Leckie, portrayed by Hattie Morahan, serves as a subtle reminder of the Edwardian norms for women, and her nuanced portrayal adds an interesting layer to the series. In essence, Arthur and George from PBS is a must-see for both fans of period dramas and everyone else alike. Its compelling storyline that weaves historical facts with an intimate portrayal of personal journeys, tied together by an enduring mystery, promises an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience. The series is not just about Arthur's quest or George's exoneration but also about the societal norms, the structure of belief, and the power of redemption and truth. With its balance of drama, romance, and suspense, Arthur and George is a rewarding mix of social commentary and gripping detective work.

Arthur and George is a series categorized as a canceled/ended. Spanning 1 seasons with a total of 3 episodes, the show debuted on 2015. The series has earned a moderate reviews from both critics and viewers. The IMDb score stands at 7.1.