"Father Brown" (1974) TV series

User Rating:

7.5/10   

Writer:

John Portman (adaptation)

Seasons:

1

Release Date:

2 November 1982 (USA)

Genre:

Mystery

Plot Keywords:

Amateur Detective | Religion | Character Name In Title

Cast

Kenneth More

...

Father Brown (13 episodes, 1974)

Runtime:

60 min (13 episodes)

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Colour:

Colour

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Sound Mix:

Mono

Company:

Associated Television (ATV)

Movie Connections:

Version of Father Brown, Detective (1934)

Flawed, but fondly remembered

I saw the series when it was first broadcast in the UK in 1974. I can't remember it ever being repeated which is perhaps why it has slipped from public memory. The stories also share the problem of the original material: Father Brown seems to pop up everywhere for no real reason, never in an established location with a regular supporting cast. Viewers like to become familiar with characters and their surroundings.

I have just managed to obtain some of the stories on video. Generally they hold up well. Some of the techniques are dated: camera movements and editing have a definite 1970's feel, as does the abrupt jump from video in studio scenes to very grainy 16mm film on location. The pace of the stories is also quite measured; 24 Hours this isn't.

The series was a prestige project for Lew Grade's ATV (taking on the BBC in the 'classic literature' department). Grade was so determined to cast Kenneth More (who didn't feel he had a very priestly image) that he personally telephoned the actor every day for almost a year, saying: "Good morning, Father. How's Father Brown this morning?" Finally More gave in and replied: "Bless you, my son."

More's performance, of course, is the axis around which all the stories revolve. He has great charm and a wonderful way with witty one-liners (I almost suspect More ad-libbed these). However, I can't help feeling his instincts were superior to Lew Grade's. The most important characteristic of the Father Brown of the stories was his insignificance: he goes unnoticed to discover facts missed by police. Even being insignificant More radiates charisma. Father Brown also uses Catholic theology and metaphysics to solve mysteries. More seems to find it difficult to explain ideas founded in a particular set of beliefs.

Having said all that: I'm a fan! If you're tired of Miss Marple and bored with Hercule Poirot. If you want classic period detective stories which aren't Agatha Christie - I'd recommend giving Father Brown a try. The videos will certainly make regular appearances on my player.