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.
"Old School Ties" signals the first episode after Jack's last appearance, and all things considered it comes over pretty well. Jack indeed will be missed hugely and it is just not the same without James Bolam, who added such a lot to the show. It does feel like there is a large hole amidst everything else and even though not unintentional the team dynamic does feel somewhat too unsettled as a result.
The case is very intriguing and fun with a few nice and clever surprises well executed. Nothing innovative or special though and there is an air of familiarity.
Visually, "Old School Ties" 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.
Writing is intelligent, thought-provoking and classy, while also being very funny and high up in the entertainment value. This is all mixed adeptly with a seriousness without being overly so that it doesn't feel like 'New Tricks'.
A huge part of 'New Tricks' appeal is the chemistry, which is so entertaining and charming with some nice tension.
One of the show's biggest delights is Alun Armstrong, achieves a perfect balance of funny comic timing and touching pathos which was maintained all the way up to his final episode. It is also lovely here to see his role in the team and skills appreciated more all the time. Amanda Redman more than holds her own and is very authoritative and Dennis Waterman brings humour and grit.
Nicola Walker and Susan Jameson are especially impressive in support.
Overall, very nicely done. 8/10 Bethany Cox