A Detective’s Sunday: The Best of ITV3
Sunday evenings on ITV3 are a treasure trove for fans of crime, mystery, and light-hearted comedy. The schedule begins early with a chilly start and gradually builds to a late‑night wrap‑up. Below is a rundown of the most compelling picks, each paired with a short personal take to help you decide what to watch.
A Touch of Frost – Detective Drama
The first slot on Sunday is the detective series “A Touch of Frost.” The episode starts at 05:35 GMT and offers a fresh twist: a character with Down’s syndrome becomes a suspect. While the premise is intriguing, I find the pacing a bit sluggish for a modern viewer.
Doc Martin – Medical Comedy
At 07:45 GMT, “Doc Martin” slides in with a mix of humour and heartfelt moments. The episode highlights a refresher course in phlebotomy and a counsellor’s day. It’s reliably light, though I feel it doesn’t break new ground.
Agatha Christie’s Poirot – Classic Mystery
Poirot’s three consecutive slots (08:45, 09:55, and 11:00 GMT) cover a range of puzzling cases. The first episode sees him entangled in a poisoning mystery at a flower show. The second tackles a transatlantic bond robbery, and the third involves a poisoned dart in the clouds. I appreciate the meticulous storytelling, though the pacing might feel slow for younger audiences.
Midsomer Murders – The Ultimate Villain of the Village
Starting at 13:10 GMT, “Midsomer Murders” takes over with its signature blend of idyllic English countryside and dark secrets. Episodes involve a ballad‑inspired murder, a winery attack tied to a child’s death, and a missing wealthy landowner. The series’ charm lies in its consistency; I find each episode a reliable journey into the unexpected.
Vera – Dark and Thoughtful Crime
The 21:00 GMT slot brings “Vera,” where a river body triggers a revisit of a past case. The plot is dense and reflective. I find it one of the better options for those who prefer a slower, investigative pace.
Wycliffe – Cornish Folk Tales
At 22:50 GMT, “Wycliffe” offers a story steeped in local legends. The episode revolves around a love‑obsessed antagonist, providing a unique cultural backdrop. It’s a solid, if slightly predictable, detective narrative.
The Dark – Serial Killer Spotlight
The final drama of the night, “The Dark,” begins at 23:55 GMT, exploring a serial killer’s double‑body mystery. It’s intense, with a strong investigative focus. I’m not sure it will appeal to those who prefer lighter fare.
George and Mildred – Classic Sitcom Fun
The early morning slots (01:00–06:05 GMT) feature the beloved sitcom “George and Mildred.” Episodes range from anniversary surprises to job‑search antics. It’s a nostalgic, reliable laugh‑track for those who enjoy period humour.
Unwind with ITV – Calm Evenings
The brief 01:25 GMT slot offers a calming break with guided relaxation. While the description is vague, it could provide a thoughtful pause between the heavier dramas.
Teleshopping – Home Shopping
From 01:30 to 05:00 GMT, “Teleshopping” fills the late‑night hours. It’s a predictable, if somewhat dull, offering.
Bottom line: If you crave an engaging detective story, start with Midsomer Murders. For a lighter touch, Doc Martin or George and Mildred are solid choices. If you’re willing to endure a slower pace, Poirot offers a classic mystery experience. Enjoy your Sunday on ITV3.
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