Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries Review: Surprisingly Entertaining!

I always meant to watch Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries but never quite got around to it. The story was based on a daring, witty, female detective in the roaring 20s, Phyrne Fisher. As you can imagine, Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries on Acorn TV attempts to update and revamp the story with a version set in the 60s.

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This Australian series stars Geraldine Hakewill as Peregrine Fisher, the niece of the late, famous detective. Peregrine’s aunt has left her her infamous detective agency along with her luxury condo and sports car. Peregrine wastes no time in getting up to all sorts of capers much to the frustration and amusement of a local detective (or inspector as the Aussies call them) played by Joel Jackson. Peregrine also joins an elite society of female clandestine officers of which her aunt once headed.

There’s a real mod vibe to this show that goes beyond its time setting, colourful costumes and rich set pieces. It’s actually very reminiscent of shows like I Dream of Jeannie. In fact, if I had to describe it, I’d say it’s a cross between that and Miss Scarlett and the Duke. Both shows I love.

Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries has excellent casting, with charming and lively characters. The banter and exchanges between Peregrine and Detective Steed is dripping with innuendo and yet delightfully PG. While the show often handles mature subject matter, it never takes itself too seriously and that’s its strong point.

The episodic structure while having each episode be it’s own little story is great formatting but the cinematography could undoubtedly use some work. Australia is filled with talented actors (Hugh Jackman, The Hemsworth Brothers, Margot Robbie, and others) and while they’ve always had their own film industry, I’m glad Acorn is bringing at least one Aussie show to the wider world.

The prevailing theme is that of feminism and the role of modern women. The 60s was an important benchmark in feminist history. It sowed the seeds of something greater and in the 70s came the revolution. The show depicts women and their struggles in male dominated fields and the role of men and women in modern relationships. It’s a surprisingly entertaining, unassuming, feel good show and I’m slightly impressed. Watch Ms. Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries on Acorn TV here.

‘Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries’ Rating – 3.5/5

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