Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift

Despite not having ever really watched Midsomer Murders, I went into Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift with some inexplicable excitement. As someone who was raised primarily on Agatha Christie (Poirot over Marple, every time) and cares a little bit too much about The Traitors, murder mystery – and, more specifically, cosy crime – is more than just up my alley. It’s in my billiard room, with a lead pipe.

The conceit of Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift is the usual whodunit fare – detectives are thrown into the midst of a mysterious death which, though appearing to be nothing sinister on the surface, winds up becoming an entangling plot that involves essentially every single person who lives in the village. What I loved most about Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift though was its self-awareness. This is a play that knows exactly what it is, and exactly what its paying homage to – and it’s got the tongue-in-cheek nods to audience to prove it.

Our crime-fighting duo – Inspector Barnaby and Sergeant Troy – are perfectly realised by Daniel Casey and James Bradwell, whose rapturous power dynamic and quips had the audience in the palm of their hands, and rolling in the aisles. The cast here need a special commendation, for how many characters are brought to the stage by a relatively small team. I’m hesitant to spoil one of the best moments in the show but, needless to say, there is a segment featuring Chandrika Chevli, playing two roles, utilising one chair and some very brilliant lighting cues – I would review it further, but my own hysterical laughter impaired my view.

Knowing the quaint roots that this series has, you’d be forgiven for expecting something small-scale and simple. But the staging is sort of ingenious – with set pieces whizzing in from the flies, or the wings, and transforming the countryside landscape set by the backdrop and tabs. I can’t actually get through another word of this review without saying – Matt Haskins’ lighting design is a joy. Suspenseful, comical, elevated – and transporting, without a doubt.  Set and costume by David Woodhead, too, are especially fun and nice to watch.

If you want to watch a deeply serious and suspenseful murder mystery, perhaps look elsewhere. But if you want something that combines traditional whodunit beats with a knowing level of camp that is infectiously fun, Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift is a must see. It’s a joyous night out, a great mystery, and an exciting new play. Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift was a hoot and a half – I would never commit the sin of spoiling the ending to a mystery but, needless to say, I might have to track down a box set ASAP and catch up on what I’ve missed in the murderous Midsomer.

Special mention to the line I loved most – which was Inspector Barnaby, deadpan, describing the crime rates in Midsomer as something along the lines of ‘higher that average.’ Barnaby, you’re telling me.

Review by Aaron Cawood

Cast – Midsomer Constabulary

  • Daniel Casey – Inspector Barnaby

  • James Bradwell – Sergeant Troy

Residents of Midsomer (Cast)

  • Nathalie Barclay

  • Chandrika Chevli

  • John Dougall

  • Julie Legrand

  • Rupert Sadler

  • Chris Agha

  • Rhîan Crowley-McLean

Creatives / Crew

  • Caroline Graham – Original novel’s author

  • Guy Unsworth – Writer & Director

  • David Woodhead – Set & Costume Designer

  • Matt Haskins – Lighting Designer

  • Ella Wahlström – Sound Designer

  • Max Pappenheim – Composer

  • Ginny Schiller CDG – Casting Director

  • Sarah Stacey – Associate Director

  • Bristol Costume Services – Costume Supervisor

  • Suzy Barrett – Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Supervisor

  • Katie Balmforth – Props Supervisor

  • Matt Jones for GJPM Ltd – Production Manager

  • Nicholson Green Productions – Producer

  • Colin Ingram Ltd – Producer

  • Bentley Productions [for ITV] in association with ALL3MEDIA International – Producer of television series