Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (2012–2015) User Reviews

Lots of fun, and looks gorgeous

[Katherina_Minola · 8/10 · 3 December 2013]

I happened upon Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries quite by accident. I'd never read (or even heard of) the books, but the programme drew me in, and is now one of my favourites. It's set in 1920s Melbourne, and although as the title says, each episode is concerned with a murder, it's lots of fun, and not too gory at all. Because of the time it is set in, there are no sophisticated forensic techniques to be handily applied to push the story forward (such as in CSI and numerous of its copies). It's basically good old sleuthing by Phryne Fisher and Inspector Jack Robinson. I love Essie Davis and Nathan Page as Phryne and Jack - the chemistry between them is almost palpable.

The period is reproduced beautifully, and the programme is simply gorgeous to look at. (I covet Phryne's wardrobe with every episode that I watch!) I also really enjoy Phryne's maid and friend Dot, and Jack's constable Hugh. who ably help them in their crime-solving.

It's great to see a series with such a strong, intelligent and independent female lead, and Davis plays the character wonderfully.

I would definitely recommend this series to any fans of period drama or crime drama, especially if you like a dash of playfulness added to your viewing!

Great fun! Smart. Witty. Beautiful Costumes.

[riverstyxmail · 9/10 · 23 December 2012]

Call me nerdy, I love this show and so looking forward to season 2. Thank the tech nerds for the internet that allows me to see shows from all the world. They are who have given me access to great shows such as The Killing (Danish), Downton Abbey, Miss Fisher and so many more.

If you can appreciate amazing costume design and construction within a universe that is also beautifully shot and written. Yes, the murder mystery formula may be derivative, but as a woman, I appreciate the strength of Miss Fisher and those she assembles around her. Her mischievous, but lovable antics are endearing. And, the writing is just good enough to make this a 9 in my book. I think this is a step above Downton Abbey or any of the other Edwardian and/or 20s period television soapies.

It may be reconstructed history...but it is fun. It's great for the whole family. There are adult themes, but if you are forward thinking parents, this is completely within the parameters of what your kids should be aware of and take as reality. If only the 1920s Australia were this "contemporary".

Fun, classy, and pretty to look at

[maerrie1 · 7/10 · 25 May 2012]

As someone who hasn't read Kerry Greenwood's novels, I found this entertaining, light- hearted and aesthetically pleasing. Perhaps a little formulaic and not particularly creative in its plot devices, but altogether an enjoyable way to while away an hour on a Friday night. In fact, I may now read the novels after all.

However, as I haven't read them I can't really comment on the criticisms of other reviewers that the storyline was changed and that the main character suffered in her translation from print to screen. Obviously it's often difficult to leave a story unchanged because it just doesn't work in film the way it does in a book; and who knows what other (budgetary) restrictions the production was working within.

The sometimes ponderous camera work and precise, deliberate acting reminded me pleasantly of the Poirot series- although Phryne Fisher is rather racier than the little Belgian. I enjoyed the recreation of late-20s Melbourne, including the bright, interesting wardrobe of the leading lady. I got a little annoyed in some of the middle episodes that the storyline concerning Phryne's sister appeared to be dropped as it was the most intriguing thing about the early episodes, but I was satisfied by the end of the series. I also liked the development of the friendship between Phryne and Jack Robinson, and Hugh & Dot were quite cute too.

Don't sit down to this expecting something mind-altering or deeply intellectual. This is quality b-grade and proud of it; it does its thing very well indeed.

Enjoyable television

[docterryc · 10/10 · 2 June 2012]

I am frequently in awe of many reviews posted on IMDb. The writer's have insights and knowledge of production techniques that amaze me.

However, unlike many reviewers, I watch TV (theatre, read fiction, etc.) for a relaxing escape. Indeed, my sole criteria is "Did I enjoy it?" Without exception, I thoroughly enjoyed all 13 episodes of this series and look forward to season two.

I agree with the comments made that took issue with Ho Hum's views. I think he is being sexist. Miss Fisher is the heroine of the story so must be sharper/better/cleverer/whatever than the police. This is no different to other private detectives such as Poirot, Sherlock Holmes, Monk etc.

Fantastic!

[adriennew-325-679819 · 10/10 · 23 March 2012]

I am so glad to see a local author recognised during their working life in this way! Fantastic to see the series made. Yes, they have changed a few of the "facts" but it has to tie together within a restricted framework of a TV series.

I also thought Essie Davis was older than the character was meant to be (about 27) but I could not think of anyone better for the role. I don't think she plays it as too experienced a person; you must remember that people grew up a lot faster in wartime than they do in the comfortable lazy days we live in now.

As for the review entitled "Ho Hum", if the roles were reversed, and the important characters male, with the females filling the vacuous or stupid roles, it would be NORMAL TELEVISION FARE! For once, we have a story that represents women in a strong light, and having some fun, instead of being a backdrop to a male tale.

ABC, you rock!

Sultry and Stunning Period Mystery Series

[robin-72-718219 · 9/10 · 30 November 2013]

As a life long mystery buff,I find "Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries" to be a real treat. The series is very reminiscent of Agatha Christie's "Marple" (with Geraldine McEwan ) and "Poirot" (with David Suchet). There's just something special about period murder mysteries, perhaps it's the lack of high tech machines that do our sleuthing for us, a la CSI, or maybe it's the romanticism of the period itself. Regardless, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries is expertly produced from exquisite wardrobe & makeup, to lush shooting locations and breathtaking cinematography. Every element of the production is done with such attention to detail, you loose yourself in the story. The two leads, Essie Davis as Miss Phryne Fisher and Nathan Page as Detective Jack Robinson are perfect in their roles. Having watched each episode thus far, I cannot imagine anyone else portraying these delightful characters and their chemistry is undeniable. The entire cast is great, the characters are well thought out and multi-dimensional. The episodes are also well done, peppered with historical information and accuracy. I would highly recommend "Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries" to any mystery buff, it's a modern classic done in the period style of the roaring 20's.

Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries

[dlwilson1844 · 10/10 · 26 April 2014]

The characters have excellent chemistry between them. I love the relationship between Ms. Fisher and Jack between Dot and Hugh, and between Dot and Ms. Fisher. Then there is Cec and and Bert and Mr. Butler. Everyone is such a delight. And Aunt P is great too. the plots a good but the people the actors are great.

The 1920's music is so much fun to hear and it sticks with you. I believe the period music is very realistic. The costumes are excellent, and beautiful.

I also like the way they tie in the history of the war in flash backs and how life was after the war and everyone was in the midst of recovering and getting on with their lives.

Love this show

WOW!

[wrightstuff217 · 10/10 · 1 March 2019]

We like crime shows...but got tired off true crime, guns, guts, over and over..so we just happened upon Miss Fisher be- cause a period piece with a cute female lead was something a bit different...... WOW!!!! "Miss Fisher" hits home with my husband and I on so many points...We LOVE her, Phryne, she's cute, sexy, gutzy, even ballzy at times, but she has a heart and Praise God a BRAIN....and him...OH! Detective Jack, he is a Man's man...my husband never grows tired of putting up with the girl's antics because there's just enough testosterone to balance. And, sex too so probably not appropriate for whatever you parents think is not appropriate for inappropriate you-know! Not every show but, may want to watch first...or keep this fun show for you and the man to cuddle up too. The ENTIRE cast is a blast!! We are on our 4th time through, Netflix should pick this up and keep this going for another 10 years. We truly don't know of anything quite like it.

Amazing - need more seasons, please!

[jenche-44620 · 10/10 · 8 November 2015]

Phryne is an intelligent, beautiful, confident woman, and, as a detective, she is absolutely remarkable. Her personality is refreshing and unique. The plots aren't very out-of-the- ordinary for the most part, but, with a leading lady like this one, it didn't bother me at all. In fact, I am addicted and adding a shameless plug here - please give us another season! My review must be a min amount of lines, so I'm just going to name some of my favorite things about this show: 1. Phryne is a multi-faceted character, with tons of interesting back story and experience. 2. Her taste in clothes and guns is fabulous - the whole series is very pleasing to the eye and makes me wish I could bring back the '20s style. 3. She's a good person - this is made clear in several episodes and she almost seems like the big sister you always wished for. Long story short, watch this show so they will make more seasons!

Essie Davis

[Kirpianuscus · 17 July 2019]

She is...the spice. Her Miss Fisher is provocative, and modern and fancy and...cool. And this is the most important fact because, in many episodes, she is...the story. Short, a serie reminding many others in large lines. More British than Australian. But seductive. For smart performance of Essie Davis, first.

Role Reversal

[pensman · 7/10 · 8 January 2013]

An interesting series set in the roaring 20's of Melbourne with Essie Davis as private detective Phryne Fisher, who assisted by her somewhat naïve maid, Dorothy 'Dot' Williams, goes chasing after various thugs armed with her gold plated 38 and a ready throwing knife. There are some supporting characters: Dr. Mac a George Sand like woman doctor who prefers dressing in men's style clothing; and Bert and Cec her two men Friday; and a butler, Mr. Butler, who somewhat reminds you of Bruce Wayne's Alfred.

Miss Fisher has a quite thrilling life tracking down cocaine dealers, stopping Latvian anarchists, dealing with Zionists, and even a ghost to mention a few. Of course along the way she beds a number of men who might be suspects but for proprieties sake turn out innocent. Not Rene but he wasn't a murderer when she bedded him. Our Miss Fisher is a tad promiscuous which is to suggest she is a totally modern woman.

Some threads are picked up and dropped without explanation such as her domineering Aunt Prudence and a waif, Jane, she "adopts" but who sort of vanishes off to school. At least until the last three episodes where she plays a crucial role. In general Miss Fisher tends to aggravate and enchant the local police as established in the character DCI John 'Jack' Robinson who finds her frustrating yet admirable. And while there are plenty of hints tossed about regarding their relationship, Jack is married if somewhat unhappily. Jack's assistant, constable Hugh Collins is smitten with Phryne's maid and their romance, although clouded by the fact Dot is a Catholic and Hugh a Protestant, seems to be more likely to be consummated as the episodes move forward.

The last three episodes are an arc which completes the story line and allow Miss Fisher to confront her nemesis, Murdoch Foyle, the man responsible for Miss Fisher becoming a detective. Unfortunately these episodes wrap up the series so well they almost make the need for a second season superfluous. But there is a second season and in some ways it is much more fun than the first with a few tongue-in-cheek episodes. And the focus is a bit more on the evolving relationship between Phryne and Jack.

Production vales are quite good and the mysteries are good fun but frequently the viewer will figure out the perpetrator before Phryne does.

Top Rate Series

[yorksie · 10/10 · 29 November 2013]

This series is Drop Dead Fabulous. I have been longing for a new period style murder mystery series. And Essie Davis is simply perfect and delicious as Phryne Fisher.

I have always been mad that Diana Rigg did not make more of the Mrs. Bradley Mysteries Series. So few episodes.

But now we have Essie Davis to take the torch and Forge ahead. Love Love Love this series.

Also Love the strong woman who won't let stupid male chauvinistic pigs push her around...and I am a male myself. She's smart, witty, caring and down right sexy. Who could ask for anything more? If you like smart murder mysteries, and not the stupid glossy trash we Americans produce, then this is the series for you. Cannot wait to see more future episodes. Thank you Netflix for offering this series on Instant View. Makes we want to keep up my monthly fee.

A Very Happy American

Light entertainment

[zombiemockingbird · 7/10 · 30 June 2019]

Overall I enjoy this show. I do find some of the crimes a little too lurid for the lightheartedness and humor of the characters. The feminism aspect is pushed a little too aggressively and instead of Miss Fisher being intelligent and classy, she's somewhat irresponsible and impulsive and dangerous. Personally, I am tired of feminism being portrayed as being promiscuous, which Miss Fisher certainly is. Having her jump into bed with someone she just met in every episode makes her look stupid, and seriously detracts from the story.

Great production values, fanciful scripts

[mark-henderson63 · 4/10 · 12 January 2013]

Apparently each episode of this TV murder mystery series set in 1920s Melbourne, Australia cost $1 million dollars to produce. It's certainly ravishing to look at but the production values are not supported by the scripts or direction. The two leads, playing Miss Fisher and Detective Robinson, are able enough and engaging and manage to create some believable repartee between their characters, but they are not supported well by the direction of the supporting cast, which allows for too many amateur performances which distract the discerning viewer (memo the director: people don't close their eyes when they die and Latvians don't have Russian accents!). In one episode we saw a train parked on the main line between Melbourne and Ballarat for the best part of two days, which defies credulity - this is one of the busiest rail lines in Australia and was in the 1920s too. Too many glitches like this spoil the series. Good drama, even light drama like this, begins with getting the audience to suspend its disbelief; unfortunately, the director of this series fails at the first bar.

Where is Season 4???

[Dns1962 · 8/10 · 17 April 2018]

This is fun, refreshing, and a side of seriousness. Thank you for this show. Seriously where's season 4 Missing it!!

Miss Fisher is great.

[patlightfoot · 10/10 · 5 October 2013]

I absolutely love the series, inventive and Esse Davis is marvelous. If we could go back in time we would find out that actually women had the vote then as NZ was the first followed shortly after by SA and the rest of the states in the late 19th Century. Well before England.

The costumes are beautiful, they should win some award surely? But the series is unique, and taking us back to the 1920s is skillfully done, and we can only guess how this was so well authenticated. The doctor who is obviously Lesbian is another addition into society of the times. I hope the series will continue long after the second series and we will be delighted for many years to come.

The characters are well rounded, Dot is delightful and we know that Jack and Miss Fisher must be attracted to one another, but professionally remain apart. It deserves a 9 vote.

Unique Whodunnit - Great show!

[consortpinguin · 10/10 · 31 October 2018]

This is the most unique detective show I've ever seen. A very progressive woman for her time, private eye Phryne Fisher solves baffling crimes in Australia in the late 1920's. The setting, the acting, the scripts add up to a fascinating TV series. Singing, dancing, romance, mystery, drama -- it's all here. There are so many great episodes I can't pick a favorite. She once went "undercover" as a fan dancer and explored a cult based on ancient Egyptian reincarnation. Essie Davis leads an all-star cast including her protege Dotty and Police Detective Jack Robinson. Fascinating!

absolutely brilliant

[amyworkman · 10/10 · 21 September 2015]

I stumbled upon this show browsing netflixs. I was like why not and im thrilled with it. This show exceeded any expectations i had. The plots are excellently executed and keep you guessing. Ms davis does a fabulous job with her sleuthing and has brilliantly witty dialog. I love how they have her character push boundaries for a female in that era. She is bold and refuses to back down and conform to what people expect. Ms. Fisher not only breaks female roles for the era but inspires other character as well especially her companion Dot. I highly recommend this show to everyone who enjoys a good mystery you will not be disappointed! !!!

Production Values are fantastic

[Eqwatz · 10/10 · 22 March 2012]

I am not familiar with the series of books; I am looking at this as a TV show. The camera work and editing are top notch. This should be purchased and run "as is" on US television. So much of the TV in the USA is frankly bad TV--as is the stuff from Canada (much of which is on USA also.) Is it perfect-award-winning stuff? Possibly not. Does it draw me to watch just as much as the first years of Midsomer Murders? Absolutely yes.

BTW: The main character would have to be older to have had so many adventures and skills. Everything took a bit longer in the 1920s. And, while it is true that many women (all over the world) in the 1920s would be considered to be old maids at 21-years-old, there were a few who scandalously didn't marry until their 30s. The actress is a tad older, but she carries it off rather well--people looked older in the 1920s. She doesn't look hard or wrung out, just lived in.

Another excellent offering from Aussie TV.

[Bobonthecouch · 8/10 · 4 April 2020]

The story lines, charcters, writing, acting, sets, period ambiance... whatever else... are all superb. While there is enough compelling mystery to keep you interested there is enough good humor to make you smile. The relationships between all the characters are mostly heartwarming. Maybe that's what draws me to Australian shows more than the hardarse bitterness and violence of American tv. Gees, there's enough gritty reality in the real world... give me a break... and a little escape. Too bad it had to end. I look forward to the movie. The 60s MOD version is fun and similar in nature so, if you like this, try that.

Addendum: The way I rate shows... I don't usually review anything less than a 7 because 6 would be a failing grade and I won't waste my time watching it. I'm old; I don't know how much time I've got left. Since I probably turned it off before getting even halfway through, it wouldn't be fair to rate or review it. 7 is watchable but I may go a while between episodes since, though somewhat entertaining, there are other shows more interesting or compelling. 8 would be a regular in my lineup. 9 is a must see and probably bingeable. 10 is just the epitome of superbity and headed for my all-time favorites list. I'm adding this to my reviews because it seems there are a lot of binary reactions to pretty much everything these days. I am not a like/unlike kind of guy. I see a lot of grays so if I give something a 10 it doesn't mean the only alternative is a 1.

Clever, good stories (No spoilers)

[imopeixoto-ca · 1 November 2017]

I am a fan of mysteries, Sherlock Holmes, Miss Marple, Hercule Poirot and of course Jessica Fletcher on Murder, she wrote are my favourites. Miss Fletcher Murder Mysteries is a "old recipe" with good stories and finally a police officer that is not a complete zero, he actually helps a lot!! The idea is good and on the 20's-30's is refreshing! My compliments to the cast, very well chosen, great actors. And finally something outside Hollywood with a great quality! Keep up the good work!

Pretty but disappointing

[Imnozy · 7/10 · 2 March 2012]

Of course it would have been impossible to successfully bring Kerry Greenwood's amazing Phryne Fisher to the small screen and this effort, although lovely to look at falls short on several fronts.

Essie Davis (who is maybe a tad too old for the part)looks wonderful in the lead role, helped by the excellent sets and the fabulous clothing. These are spot on for the period - I've no complaints on that front. The casting of the other characters was not as successful, particularly that of Ashleigh Cummings who is way too pretty and way too young to be a convincing Dot, Miss Fisher's maid and companion.

So far only two episodes have been aired and it is disappointing to see the way the plots of the original stories have been changed around - in several cases unnecessarily. It was obvious that some changes must be made to fit a complete novel into a on hour TV show, but the original concept could have been left alone quite easily, without completely changing the outcome of the story. It appears that Kerry Greenwood had little if anything to do with the dramatisation of her stories - I wonder what her feelings are about the outcome.

The greatest disappointment is that the overlying humour of all the Phryne Fisher stories has been lost in this series so far. These unique and light hearted novels have been turned into just another period murder mystery series. I hope the further episodes are as true to the stories as they are to the clothes and buildings of the period.

Fiendishly exquisite.

[richardlane-59839 · 10/10 · 19 March 2018]

Nostalgia, romance, escapism, thrill, panache and sartorial radiance; 'Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries' has all of this in abundance and presents in such an elegantly graceful and cultured way, with just a hint of mischievousness!

I truly enjoyed this wonderful drama series and am distraught that there are only three series; encore series four!

Essie Davis (Phryne Fisher) and her fellow central characters shine and have delivered a wholesome drama that is unrivaled; we need more of this!

Why is promiscuity accepted as good fare for drama these days?

[davidwile · 7/10 · 10 October 2018]

Hey folks,

My wife and I both like the Phryne series. We enjoy the period costumes and the mysteries each week as well as the characters themselves. Having said that, I still cannot get past the problem that Phryne's promiscuity is sold as something to admire. It may reflect much of society today, but that does not make it admirable.

We continue to watch the series because we enjoy so many things in this period piece, so we just do our best to ignore the sad sexual escapades.

Best wishes, Dave Wile

All Dressed Up and No Place To Go

[Aristides-2 · 3/10 · 18 January 2014]

The majority of the production's money had to have been spent on costumes, props, hair and makeup and production design (vehicles, posters, locations), leaving not enough to hire first rate writers and directors. Consistently illogical and sloppy scenes, such as dropping the wounded archaeologist from the conclusion in the first season's last episode), poorly staged fight/violent scenes (every single one) and blatantly intrusive music, make this the worst detective show I've seen since I started watching them in the mid-Eighties. I did watch all of the first season's episodes, not believing a show could each time grow badder and badder; it did and I did get some laughs out of the process. (I would have not stuck around after the first two episodes but for the very talented and gorgeous Essie Davis.) P.S. I forgot to mention the low budget circus episode. The production had no money for circus animals and so several times one hears a lion and elephant making their sounds off camera. (The animal budget did allow for them to hire a python, since the story called for one.) What a hoot!