Grantchester - Season 2 - DVD

Content: Grantchester in 1954: young vicar Sidney Chambers (James Norton) has left the traumatic experiences of the Second World War behind him and is content with his tranquil life in Grantchester, not least because of his friendship with local police inspector Geordie Keating (Robson Green). That changes abruptly when Sidney is accused by the father of 15-year-old Abigail of sexually molesting his daughter. The case takes a dramatic turn when the girl is found dead. Although Sidney manages to exclude himself from the circle of suspects, this case will still change him permanently - not least as his friendship with Geordie is severely tested by completely different views on justice.

Welcome back to Grantchester. Based on the novel The Shadow of Death: Sidney Chambers Investigates, the Grantchester crime series builds heavy hurdles between the two main characters in the new episodes. On the one hand, it becomes clear how important their friendship is to both men, but at the same time, what different characters they are. This makes this season a bit darker and more complex than the first episodes. Especially when the topic of the death penalty drives a real wedge between Sidney and Geordie, it becomes clear how different their views are. Whether that can be overcome, only the future of the series will tell.

But the handling of other issues, such as homosexuality in the 1950s, also makes the new episodes deep, interesting and also very exciting. Fortunately, however, the creators also sprinkle in a little humor and lightness every now and then, so that the whole thing does not become too gloomy and heavy. Especially in the last two episodes of this season there are some very heavy moments, but nevertheless season 2 is a great crime thriller. The fact that you are also made to think and sympathize with the fate of some beloved characters over several episodes at the same time makes the overall impression even more positive than it already was.

The great actors, the detailed set and the really good scripts make sure that Grantchester is even better in the second year than it was in the first episodes. A gripping trip down memory lane, but still dealing with relevant issues in a pleasantly entertaining but never superficial way - definitely a for this: Absolutely worth watching!

Picture + Sound: The picture captures the 50s feel of the series well, and shows off the many beautiful details of the set as well as the gorgeous scenery. The image is clean, the overall sharpness is at a good level and real weaknesses are hard to spot even in darker scenes. The Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is rather unspectacular, but can definitely score with some good surround moments here and there. Good!

Extras: There are a few nice extras on the second disc. In short featurettes, the cast and creators comment on their return to Grantchester (approx. 2:04 mins) and the tensions between Sidney and Geordie (approx. 2:31 mins), which put the relationship between the two men to the test in season two. Plus there's a short making of (approx. 10:16 mins) and interviews with the cast and creators (approx. 16:21 mins)!

Conclusion: The second season of Grantchester is already putting the friendship established in season 1 between clergyman Sidney and policeman Geordie to the test. As well as closed criminal cases, there is also a major case that runs throughout the season and leaves its mark on Sidney in particular. A few lighter moments ensure that the six episodes do not seem too gloomy. Entertainingly, important themes and moral issues are dealt with, which also makes this double DVD absolutely recommendable. Short but worth watching extras are also included!

An article by Frankfurt-Tipp