Best Shows on Acorn TV: Top Picks for Crime and Drama Fans

Acorn TV is a streaming service that specializes in British and international television shows. It offers a vast library of content, including dramas, comedies, mysteries, and documentaries. Acorn TV is an excellent option for those who enjoy watching high-quality shows from other countries.

When it comes to the best shows on Acorn TV, there are several factors to consider. The first is the genre of the show. Acorn TV offers a wide range of shows, from period dramas to contemporary crime shows. The second factor is the quality of the show. Acorn TV is known for its high-quality programming, so viewers can expect to find shows that are well-written, well-acted, and well-produced.

Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best shows on Acorn TV is the availability of subtitles. Many of the shows on Acorn TV are in languages other than English, so it’s essential to have subtitles to fully enjoy the show.

Overall, the best shows on Acorn TV are those that combine excellent writing, acting, and production values with compelling storylines and characters. We spent hours researching and testing the shows on Acorn TV to identify the ones that stand out from the rest.

Best Shows on Acorn TV

We have scoured the vast library of Acorn TV to bring you the best shows that are definitely worth your time. Whether you are a fan of British dramas, mysteries, or comedies, there is something for everyone on this streaming platform. So sit back, relax, and get ready to binge-watch some of the most captivating and entertaining shows that Acorn TV has to offer.

Broadway’s Lost Treasures III

If you’re a fan of Broadway musicals, you’ll definitely want to add Broadway’s Lost Treasures III to your collection.

Pros

• The DVD features 23 performances from the archives of the Tony Award broadcasts, showcasing legendary stars and shows that have become part of Broadway history.
• You’ll get to see classic songs performed on stage by great stars, including Julie Andrews, Tommy Tune, Carol Channing, Robert Goulet, and Harvey Fierstein.
• The DVD includes fully staged performances of numbers from shows that you may not have seen on Broadway or on tour, including Ragtime, Fosse, Black and Blue, and Crazy for You.

Cons

• Some of the performances are not as exciting as others, and a few of them are lip-synched.
• The DVD includes some contemporary clips that may not appeal to fans of classic Broadway musicals.
• The DVD could have included more performances from some of the bigger Broadway shows.

Broadway’s Lost Treasures III is a must-have for any fan of Broadway musicals. The DVD features some of the best performances from the archives of the Tony Award broadcasts, showcasing legendary stars and shows that have become part of Broadway history.

The DVD includes fully staged performances of numbers from shows that you may not have seen on Broadway or on tour, giving you a chance to experience some of the best of Broadway from the comfort of your own home.

While some of the performances are not as exciting as others, and a few of them are lip-synched, the DVD is still a great addition to any collection of Broadway musicals.

Overall, we highly recommend Broadway’s Lost Treasures III to any fan of Broadway musicals.

Eleventh Hour DVD

If you’re a fan of sci-fi, mystery, and crime genres, Eleventh Hour is a must-watch. With Patrick Stewart’s captivating performance as Dr. Ian Hood, a former physics professor recruited by the British government to investigate science-related crimes and conspiracies, this short-lived series is an action-packed treat.

Pros

• Well-acted and action-packed stories
• Smart, spooky thrillers juiced by dynamic performances
• Outlandish science dealt with in wholly believable ways

Cons

• Weaker episodes about global warming and political conspiracy
• Hammy dialogue and silly computer programs in one episode
• Only four episodes long

We highly recommend Eleventh Hour for any fan of Patrick Stewart and sci-fi thrillers. The first two episodes, written by creator Stephen Gallagher, are the strongest, with taut thrillers that tackle hot-button issues such as cloning and pandemic diseases. The wary relationship between Hood and his Scottish bodyguard Rachel Young (Ashley Jensen) is different from the usual partner banter, adding a unique element to the show.

Despite the disappointment of the weaker episodes, Eleventh Hour remains vivid and enjoyable. The series deals with outlandish science in wholly believable ways, making it easy to get lost in the thrilling storylines. If you’re looking for a short but captivating series to binge-watch, Eleventh Hour is definitely worth checking out.

FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1

If you’re looking for a British crime drama set in the early 1940s, FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1 is a solid choice.

Pros

• The show is well-researched and provides a unique perspective on WWII from the home front.
• Michael Kitchen delivers an excellent performance as Christopher Foyle.
• The show is a fast-paced drama with plenty of suspense.

Cons

• The series can be a bit somber at times, which may not be for everyone.
• The show’s focus on the home front rather than the battlefront may disappoint those looking for a more action-packed series.
• The show’s runtime of 6 hours and 40 minutes may be too long for some viewers.

FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1 is a well-written and well-acted series that provides a unique perspective on WWII. The show’s focus on the home front may not be for everyone, but Michael Kitchen’s excellent performance as Christopher Foyle makes it worth watching.

In FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1, Christopher Foyle is a stalwart detective whose responsibilities are on the home front rather than the battlefront. As WWII rages around him, Foyle must navigate the dangers and intrigues of wartime England. Michael Kitchen delivers an excellent performance as Foyle, and the supporting cast is also strong.

The show’s focus on the home front provides a unique perspective on WWII, and the series is well-researched and historically accurate. FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1 is a fast-paced drama with plenty of suspense, but it can be a bit somber at times.

Overall, FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1 is a solid choice for fans of British crime dramas and WWII history. If you’re looking for a well-written and well-acted series with a unique perspective on the war, FOYLE’S WAR, SET 1 is worth checking out.

On the Road With Charles Kuralt: Set 2

If you’re looking for a timeless and heartwarming television series that explores the beauty of the United States, On the Road With Charles Kuralt: Set 2 is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• Kuralt’s storytelling is captivating and entertaining, making every episode a joy to watch.
• The series offers a unique and intimate look into the lives and stories of everyday Americans, showcasing the diversity and richness of our country.
• The DVD set contains multiple episodes, providing hours of quality entertainment.

Cons

• Due to the age of the episodes, the image and audio quality may not be up to par with modern standards.
• The series may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced and action-packed shows.
• The DVD set only contains a limited number of episodes, leaving fans wanting more.

On the Road With Charles Kuralt: Set 2 is a delightful and heartwarming series that takes viewers on a journey across America, exploring the lives and stories of everyday people. Kuralt’s storytelling is captivating and entertaining, making every episode a joy to watch. The series offers a unique and intimate look into the lives of Americans, showcasing the diversity and richness of our country.

The DVD set contains multiple episodes, providing hours of quality entertainment. However, due to the age of the episodes, the image and audio quality may not be up to par with modern standards. Additionally, the series may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced and action-packed shows. The DVD set only contains a limited number of episodes, leaving fans wanting more.

Overall, if you’re a fan of documentaries and enjoy learning about different cultures and lifestyles, On the Road With Charles Kuralt: Set 2 is a great addition to your collection. It’s a timeless classic that will leave you feeling inspired and grateful for the country we call home.

Doc Martin The Complete Collection

If you’re a fan of British dramas, then Doc Martin The Complete Collection is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The series is highly entertaining and will keep you hooked from start to finish.
• The show’s straightforwardness and quirky humor make it a refreshing break from more serious dramas.
• The set comes with 27 discs, giving you a total of 66 hours of content to enjoy.

Cons

• The box set is a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment if you’re a fan of the series.
• Some customers have reported receiving damaged discs, but Amazon is quick to send replacements.
• The show’s humor may not be for everyone, as it can be quite dry and sarcastic at times.

We recently purchased Doc Martin The Complete Collection and were thoroughly impressed with the quality of the series. The show follows the story of Martin Ellingham, a London surgeon who develops a fear of blood and is forced to retrain as a GP in a seaside town. The show’s quirky cast of characters and dry humor make it a refreshing break from more serious dramas.

One of the things we loved about this set is that it comes with 27 discs, giving you a total of 66 hours of content to enjoy. The show is highly entertaining and will keep you hooked from start to finish. We found ourselves binge-watching multiple episodes in one sitting.

The only downside to this set is that it can be a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment if you’re a fan of the series. Some customers have reported receiving damaged discs, but Amazon is quick to send replacements if you have any issues.

Overall, we highly recommend Doc Martin The Complete Collection to anyone who enjoys British dramas with a touch of humor. It’s a great addition to any collection and will provide hours of entertainment.

Laurence Olivier Presents: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof / The Collection / Hindle Wakes / Come Back, Little Sheba / Saturday, Sunday, Monday / The Ebony Tower

If you’re looking for a collection of classic plays, then Laurence Olivier Presents is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Excellent performances from a range of talented actors
• A great selection of plays from some of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century
• A bonus novella adapted by John Mortimer

Cons

• The bonus film, The Ebony Tower, is a bit lightweight and relies too much on nudity
• Some of the plays may be a bit dated for modern audiences
• The video quality is not as high as some more recent productions

We were impressed with the breadth of roles played by Olivier and the other actors in this collection. From a fussy lover in Harold Pinter’s The Collection to Tennessee William’s swaggering Big Daddy in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof to a daffy Italian patriarch in Saturday, Sunday, Monday, the performances are all top-notch. The one weak spot is the “bonus” film The Ebony Tower, which tries to make up for its lackluster story with copious nudity.

Overall, we think that this collection is a great choice for anyone who loves classic plays or is interested in the work of some of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century. While some of the plays may be a bit dated, the performances are all excellent and the selection is well-chosen. If you’re looking for a high-quality collection of classic plays, then Laurence Olivier Presents is definitely worth checking out.

Life On Mars: The Complete Collection (U.K.)

If you’re looking for a unique and captivating crime drama, Life on Mars: The Complete Collection (U.K.) is worth considering.

Pros

• The show’s blend of crime drama and science fiction makes for an intriguing and entertaining viewing experience.
• The characters are well-developed and the acting is top-notch.
• The show has won critical acclaim and multiple awards, including two International Emmys for best drama series.

Cons

• The show’s premise may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer more straightforward crime dramas.
• Some viewers may find the show’s surreal elements confusing or off-putting.
• The show’s 1970s setting and cultural references may not resonate with younger viewers.

Life on Mars: The Complete Collection (U.K.) is a crime drama with a twist. The show follows detective Sam Tyler, who wakes up in 1973 after being hit by a car in modern-day Manchester. As he adjusts to his new reality and works to solve crimes with his old police squad, he also grapples with the question of whether he’s crazy, in a coma, or actually traveled back in time.

One of the things that sets Life on Mars apart from other crime dramas is its blend of science fiction and police procedural elements. The show’s surreal touches, like Sam’s strange visions and the mysterious voices that call him back to his former life, add an extra layer of intrigue to the already-compelling storylines.

Another strength of the show is its characters. Sam Tyler, played by John Simm, is a complex and sympathetic protagonist, while Philip Glenister’s DCI Gene Hunt is a memorable and often hilarious antagonist. The supporting cast is also strong, with Liz White’s Annie Cartwright standing out as a particularly compelling character.

While Life on Mars: The Complete Collection (U.K.) has won critical acclaim and multiple awards, it may not be for everyone. Some viewers may find the show’s surreal elements confusing or off-putting, and its 1970s setting and cultural references may not resonate with younger viewers. However, for those who enjoy crime dramas with a twist, Life on Mars is well worth checking out.

The Best of the Tony Awards: The Plays

If you’re a theatre enthusiast looking to experience some of the greatest dramatic performances from the Tony Awards, then The Best of the Tony Awards: The Plays is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• Provides a rare opportunity to watch legendary performances from the Tony Awards broadcasts.
• Commentary by a Broadway veteran adds value to the viewing experience.
• Bonus playbill cover art adds to the overall value of the product.

Cons

• The performances are not specifically organized by date or performer.
• The format works better for musicals than it does for plays.
• The collection only features brief excerpts of each performance.

We thoroughly enjoyed watching the legendary stars perform key scenes from 19 legendary shows, most of which were seen only once in their original telecast. The commentary by a Broadway veteran was insightful and added value to the viewing experience. The bonus playbill cover art was a nice touch and added to the overall value of the product.

However, we did find that the performances were not specifically organized by date or performer, which made it difficult to follow a particular performer’s journey through the years. Additionally, the format clearly works better for musicals than it does for plays, and the collection only features brief excerpts of each performance, which may leave some viewers wanting more.

Overall, we highly recommend The Best of the Tony Awards: The Plays for theatre enthusiasts who want to experience some of the greatest dramatic performances from the Tony Awards.

DOC MARTIN: SERIES 8

If you’re a fan of British television, then you should definitely check out “Doc Martin: Series 8.” It’s a charming and witty show that is sure to keep you entertained.

Pros

• Martin Clunes delivers a fantastic performance as the titular character.
• The show features a talented cast of supporting actors.
• The writing is sharp and clever, with plenty of laughs to be had.

Cons

• The show can be a bit slow-moving at times.
• Some of the storylines can be a bit predictable.
• The show’s humor may not be to everyone’s taste.

Overall, we highly recommend “Doc Martin: Series 8” for anyone who enjoys British television. The show is well-acted, well-written, and full of charm. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, this is definitely a show worth checking out.

In this season, we see Dr. Martin Ellingham and his wife, Louisa, finally living together with their son James Henry. However, their problems are far from over. When Louisa hires a new nanny, Martin is disgusted by the family’s new dog, Buddy. Meanwhile, the residents of Portwenn are preparing for a wedding, which causes trouble for the Larges’ business endeavors when Martin’s aunt Ruth considers selling the family farm. With guest stars like Caroline Quentin and Sigourney Weaver, this season is sure to delight fans of the series.

The show’s strengths lie in its talented cast and clever writing. Martin Clunes is a standout as the gruff and socially awkward Dr. Ellingham, and the supporting cast is equally impressive. The show’s humor is dry and witty, with plenty of laughs to be had. However, some viewers may find the show’s pacing to be a bit slow at times, and some of the storylines can be a bit predictable. Additionally, the show’s humor may not be to everyone’s taste. Overall, though, we think that “Doc Martin: Series 8” is a fantastic addition to the series and a must-watch for fans of British television.

Agatha Raisin

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, Agatha Raisin is a show worth checking out.

Pros

• The show has a charming and quirky lead character in Agatha Raisin, played by Ashley Jensen.
• The English countryside setting is picturesque and adds to the cozy feel of the show.
• The mysteries are engaging and will keep you guessing until the end.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the humor a bit too cheesy or forced at times.
• The show can be a bit formulaic in its approach to solving the mysteries.
• The supporting characters can be a bit one-dimensional and underdeveloped.

Overall, we recommend giving Agatha Raisin a try if you’re in the mood for a lighthearted mystery series with a charming lead and picturesque setting. Just be aware that the humor can be a bit hit or miss and the supporting characters are not as fleshed out as the lead.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best shows on Acorn TV, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

Genre

First and foremost, consider what genre you enjoy the most. Acorn TV offers a wide range of shows, from crime dramas to comedies to period pieces. Make sure to choose a show that aligns with your interests and preferences.

Ratings and Reviews

Before committing to a show, check out its ratings and reviews. This can give you a good idea of the overall quality of the show and whether it’s worth investing your time in. Keep in mind that everyone has different tastes, so take reviews with a grain of salt.

Cast and Crew

Another factor to consider is the cast and crew of the show. If you’re a fan of a particular actor or director, look for shows they’re involved in. This can help you discover new shows that you may not have otherwise considered.

Availability

Finally, make sure to check the availability of the show. Acorn TV offers a rotating selection of shows, so if there’s a particular show you’re interested in, make sure to watch it before it’s removed from the platform.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best shows on Acorn TV that align with your interests and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated mystery series currently available on Acorn TV?

We have a wide range of mystery series available on Acorn TV, but some of the top-rated ones include “Midsomer Murders,” “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries,” “Agatha Christie’s Poirot,” and “Vera.”

Which British detective series is new and popular on Acorn TV?

One of the newest and most popular British detective series on Acorn TV is “Bloodlands,” starring James Nesbitt. It’s a gripping crime drama set in Northern Ireland that has received critical acclaim.

How does Acorn TV’s content compare with BritBox in terms of quality and variety?

Both Acorn TV and BritBox offer high-quality British and international content, but Acorn TV focuses more on crime dramas and mysteries, while BritBox offers a wider variety of genres, including comedy, drama, and documentaries.

Can you recommend some critically acclaimed shows to watch on Acorn TV?

Absolutely! Some of our most critically acclaimed shows include “Foyle’s War,” “Doc Martin,” “A Place to Call Home,” “Line of Duty,” and “Brokenwood Mysteries.”

Are there any hidden gems on Acorn TV that are considered must-watch?

Definitely! Some of our hidden gems that are must-watch include “800 Words,” “The Good Karma Hospital,” “The Heart Guy,” “Janet King,” and “The Code.”

What are the latest additions to Acorn TV’s lineup that viewers are excited about?

Some of the latest additions to Acorn TV’s lineup that viewers are excited about include “The Drowning,” “The Bay,” “The Sommerdahl Murders,” “The Sounds,” and “Whitstable Pearl.”