Sherlock

If anything ever took me by surprise, it was Sherlock. I expected to enjoy it, sure. I grew up on the original stories. But it's hard to take a story that everyone already knows, and present it in such a way that it's totally enthralling. Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, with their mutual love of the original Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and sundry other stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, have done just that.

The three seasons comprise only three episodes each. In case you think that's not much, each episode is about 90 minutes long, twice the length of the average American TV show. And the time just flies. If by some horrific oversight you haven't watched the show yet (and let's be honest, if you're reading this you probably haven't) count yourself lucky that you don't have to wait two years for season three. You will be frantically looking for the next episode when you get to the end.

The story telling follows a distinct thread throughout the series. It's subtle enough that it surprises you when you realize it, but it feels like nothing else could have happened. It's just right.

I would be amiss if I failed to mention the star cast. Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman were your average British actors before Sherlock. I was one of the few people I know who knew their names back then. But after season two their fame skyrocketed. Between blockbuster Star Trek Into Darkness and The Hobbit, and various other films, there's hardly a person on earth who doesn't know their names (even if they can't spell them).

Despite their rising fame, they have both expressed a commitment to the show, demonstrating one more reason it's good--everyone is invested in it.

Of all the numerous shows I've watched, I don't think I've ever seen one where the writers and producers were so in touch with their fans. This is particularly evident in the beginning of season three, and believe me, if you start at all, you will get there. There's just one tiny detail...something about selling your soul to the fandom.

In all seriousness, I'm almost okay with the giant gaps between seasons. The level of commitment and investment of everyone involved is such that they take their time, don't rush the story or production, and as a result turn out an excellent TV show.

Now, if only they would hurry up and finish the next season.

Babbington Crankypants and some guy.