Have always been a big fan of detective/mystery shows from a fairly young age, well since starting secondary school.
'Inspector Morse', 'A Touch of Frost', 'Midsomer Murders' (in its prime), 'Law and Order', 'Inspector George Gently', 'Criminal Minds', 'Murder She Wrote', you name them to name a few. 'New Tricks' has also been a favourite from the start (despite not being the same without the original cast in recent years). Although it can be corny at times (in an endearing sort of way) it has always been perfect for helping me relax in the evenings. Something that was needed during all the hard times endured in school.
Found the previous Season 11 episodes to be decent, but "Ghosts" is a step up and one of the better episodes from the season. There is not much wrong here, realism is not an issue here as has been justified already in another review or the serious tone, which came over very poignantly actually.
Did find that the team's personal stories were not quite as interesting as the case, which is compelling, more twisty than most Season 11, and latter seasons in general, episodes and tragic with one of the show's sadder endings beautifully done.
While it is charming and likeable enough, the chemistry between the leads was stronger in 'New Tricks' prime era (Seasons 1-9 when characters that made the show (especially Brian, which the show wasn't the same without when he left) were still there. Prime-era 'New Tricks' also had more spark and freshness.
Visually, "Ghosts" is slick and stylish as ever. The music is a good fit and the theme song (sung with gusto by none other by Dennis Waterman himself) is one of the catchiest for any detective/mystery show and of any show in the past fifteen years or so.
The writing is thoughtful and classy and despite the seriousness Gerry brings some welcome humour that balances well in a way that doesn't jar. Sasha has now settled well and has confidence as a leader.
Cannot fault any of the performances, which are never less than solid. The leads are great, and while the chemistry as said is far from perfect it works well enough and they connect decently. Ann Firbank is very heartfelt as Nancy, actually felt for her.
Overall, very well done. 8/10 Bethany Cox