The Hungry Detective

Back in March of this year I complained that BBC America was taking its sweet time in rebroadcasting one of 2006 more interesting television shows, Life On Mars. The series concluded a two season run in the UK earlier this year and now American audiences will see the final eight episodes beginning December 11. Long story short, Sam Tyler is a Manchester cop in the year 2006 who is struck by a car and not only sent into a coma, but back 33 years to swinging... well... 1973 Manchester. Crazy great! There was a rumor that US based television producers (Brian Grazer?) were developing an adaptation for American consumption. God Bless the WGA Strike ... perhaps this will kill this bad idea dead.

BBC 4 is in the midst of transmitting the second season Life on Mars . Caught most of the first series last year when it played on BBCAmerica . The premise of this show is what happens when a cop in 2006 is transported back to 1973. DI Sam Tyler spends equal time trying to figure how this strange event has befallen him while also trying to solve crimes in his new decade. It actually comes off better than you think. It employs the 'Lost' formula to great affect. Everything is or is not a clue as to why Sam is 1973. Like the fact that Sam has gone back 33 years..... 33 years is how old Jesus was when he was crucified. Important? Coincidence? Maddening. I look forward to the re-broadcast on BBC America . No scheduled dates yet, but if that terrible Footballers Wive$ can get a second season then this should be a guarantee.

I suggest you all watch Dexter . The great Michael C. Hall from the truly great Six Feet Under plays the lead, Dexter. Think Hannibal Lecter w/o the annoying Euro/New England accent and the consistently patronizing tone. Of course the accent is more Anthony Hopkins, than Thomas Harris. Good stuff. It is on Showtime. KM and I on-demanded two episodes tonight.