Bodies (2023) expertly presents a compelling mystery that connects different genres. The premise of Bodies (2023) can be explained in one sentence, but at the same time it is extremely complex. In this miniseries, four detectives from different eras find the same body in the same alley in London. Although it starts off as an ordinary murder case for the four main characters, it is clear to the viewer that there is more going on. How can the same body exist four times in different eras? And how are the four detectives connected?
What is clear is that this matter is not natural, but supernatural. Bodies (2023) plays with different genres, of which detective and science fiction are the most visible. Initially, the four storylines in 1890, 1941, 2023 and 2053 are fairly self-contained and each storyline plays with different themes. For example, in 1941 the Second World War plays a major role, and in 2053 modern technology is leading. These are relevant themes that fit well with the spirit of the times and the storyline.
Bodies seamlessly interweaves four storylines together
Also in the field of design, an attempt is made to clearly distinguish the four eras from each other. Each era uses a different color palette and each knows how to create a grim atmosphere in its own way. It also makes the series a lot clearer because you can see at a glance which era we have ended up in this time and what themes are at play there. It is clear that this was made this way to create order in the tangle of storylines and that is why it sometimes feels a bit forced.
Although the four storylines are initially separate, they slowly but surely come together after a few episodes. This is done in a wonderfully inventive way. When one of the four detectives finds a clue that shows that a similar murder case took place years ago, the pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place in an excellent way. The constant unexpected twists provide enough tension. By the end of the season, the story becomes clear, and the mystery, which involves a lot of time travel, has become a fascinating and complex puzzle.
Stephen Graham plays a fantastic lead role
What also helps here is a talented cast. The four detectives Albert Hillinghead (Kyle Soller, Poldark), Charles Whiteman (Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, The Great), Shahara Hasan (Amaka Okafor, The Responder) and Iris Maplewood are all played by good actors. The big attraction, however, is Stephen Graham (Line of Duty). Graham plays a mysterious figure who plays a major role in the lives of all four detectives, and he does so with verve. We've seen Graham in similar roles over the years, and each time he manages to grab all the attention with fantastic acting. It is no different here. He is mysterious and menacing, but also charming at the same time.
Now Bodies (2023) is a series in which time travel plays a major role and the mystery surrounding the bodies is expertly put together and forms a beautiful and concise whole. However, this whole has to be broken in some way, and Bodies (2023) occasionally takes some illogical steps. The series also works towards a certain conclusion, but as a result there are a number of holes in the logic surrounding time travel. Despite this, this story is still very strong. The story is also nicely completed and a second season is not necessary in my opinion.
Bodies (2023) is an extremely fascinating and complex series in which the detective genre goes hand in hand with a time travel mystery. The story has some holes, but that does not outweigh the oppressive atmosphere and the strong acting of Stephen Graham, among others.
