I was a huge fan of Life on Mars so was expecting big things with Ashes to Ashes. However, I couldn't help feeling disappointed. It doesn't feel the same without John Simm. While Keeley Hawes adds a bit of glamour, I find her character slightly irritating. It seems less gritty and more reliant on humour. Philip Glenister is, as always, superb as Gene Hunt and Marshall Lancaster and Dean Andrews are like a modern day Laurel and Hardy and play their parts to perfection. I'm sure this series will be a huge hit and as I've only watched one episode, maybe I am expecting too much too soon. I hope I grow to love Ashes to Ashes as much as I loved Life on Mars. (I still miss John Simm though!)