Death Valley is a curious confection of a crime drama, with a show-within-a-show concept that makes it oddly arch and knowing. It's a show that doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's what makes it so charming. The body count is high, but the show's soothing episodic rhythms and Welsh valley quaintness make it feel as comfortable and predictable as Christmas.

The show's main strength is its willingness to lean into the absurdity of its premise. Across its second season, stories include everything from a suspicious death in a community service litter-picking detail to the murder of a hipster chef selling seaside street food. These cases are quite varied, but they're all entertaining in their own way.

The cases aren't always equally entertaining, but they're never lacking in depth or weight - each one is as light as a feather and as gentle as a pillow. They rely on cheerful cameos from guest stars, including Alexandra Roach, Jane Horrocks, Jim Howick, and Roisin Conaty. These guest stars add a lot to the show, and their performances are always noteworthy.

Death Valley is guilty as charged and bang to rights. If scenery-chewing and excessive exposition were crimes, we'd be locking it up and throwing away the key.

The show's trump card is Timothy Spall, who becomes more windy and verbose by the episode. He and Gwyneth Keyworth, who plays Janie Mallowan, have excellent chemistry, animated by just enough affection and antagonism. They're a great team, and their performances make the show a joy to watch. Thanks to them, Death Valley is supremely comfortable in its own skin - it's entirely undemanding, but it's contentedly so.

As the show's premise relies on the absurdity of its concept, it's no surprise that Death Valley sometimes feels less like a cosy crime drama and more like a snarky spoof of one. You'll be inclined to forgive its surfeit of eye-rolling moments, mainly because of Spall's charming performance. He's a talented actor, and he knows how to make the most of his role.

The plotting is ridiculously schematic throughout, with hilariously stagey deductions and climactic reveals that veer dangerously close to self-parody. Yet, despite its flaws, Death Valley remains a must-watch for fans of the genre, with its unique blend of humour and mystery. It's a show that won't challenge you too much, but it'll keep you entertained.

One of the show's most interesting aspects is its use of meta-references, with characters frequently breaking the fourth wall and referencing the show's own absurdity. This self-awareness adds a layer of depth to the show, making it feel more like a clever commentary on the genre than a straightforward crime drama. It's a clever move, and it pays off well.

In terms of its impact, Death Valley is likely to appeal to fans of shows like Midsomer Murders and Father Brown, with its blend of humour, mystery, and quirky characters. It's a show that won't appeal to everyone, but it's definitely worth checking out. However, its unique premise and self-aware approach set it apart from other shows in the genre, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for something new and different.

The show's second season is now available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK, and on BritBox in Australia, so be sure to check it out if you're a fan of cosy crime dramas with a twist. It's a great way to spend an evening, and it's a show that won't disappoint.

As for what's next for Death Valley, it's likely that the show will continue to push the boundaries of the genre, with its unique blend of humour and mystery. With its talented cast and clever writing, it's sure to remain a must-watch for fans of the genre, and its self-aware approach will likely inspire other shows to follow in its footsteps. It's a show that's here to stay, and it's one that you won't want to miss.

  • Death Valley is a cosy crime drama with a show-within-a-show concept.
  • The show's second season is now available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK, and on BritBox in Australia.
  • Timothy Spall stars in the show, alongside Gwyneth Keyworth and Melanie Walters.
  • The show features a range of guest stars, including Alexandra Roach, Jane Horrocks, Jim Howick, and Roisin Conaty.
  • Death Valley is known for its absurd premise and self-aware approach, with characters frequently breaking the fourth wall and referencing the show's own absurdity. It's a show that's unapologetically itself, and that's what makes it so charming.