Convincing performances elevate Shardlake, but its world lacks the authenticity of the source material. Pacing issues and lack of character development prevent Shardlake from reaching its full potential. Jarring creative decisions distract from the compelling central presence of the protagonist, resulting in a show that falls short.

Like the murder mystery that runs through the heart of the show, Shardlake season 1 is a frustrating enigma. On the one hand, the series represents the first adaptation of C.J. Sansom's acclaimed and entertaining Tudor detective novels a highly anticipated moment for the books' many fans. On the other, the source material is distorted to such an extent that some aspects are almost unrecognizable, like a bloated corpse that's escaped the notice of a hapless investigator. The result is a miniseries that veers between exhilaration and exasperation.

5/10

Shardlakes sheltered life as a lawyer is turned upside down when Cromwell instructs him to...