Ludwig series is a British whodunit crime mystery drama sprinkled with a fair dose of comedy and quirkiness. One of the show’s USPs is how Ludwig solves the crimes.
So, the protagonist Ludwig (David Mitchell) uses the ‘puzzle’ solving approach while trying to work out the ‘what/how/why/who/’ of a crime. No doubt, it is fascinating to watch.
‘Ludwig’ – An Intriguing & Stimulating Crime Drama, Wherein David Mitchell & Anna Maxwell Martin Shine Bright
Spoiler Free Review of the Ludwig (Season 1/2024) British Series
The trailer
The title of the series and the name of the lead chracter "Ludwig" is intrinsically tied to Ludwig van Beethoven. He was a famous German composer and pianist. As per IMDb, he was also a master of patterns, rhythms, illusions, and contrasts, qualities that are indeed appropriate for an individual engaged in puzzle setting.
The synopsis
Portrayed by David Mitchell, John Taylor/Ludwig is a reclusive genius who finds out that his twin brother DCI James Taylor has vanished. Upon the request of his brother’s wife, Lucy Betts-Taylor (Anna Maxwell Martin), John Taylor adopts the persona of his police detective sibling to investigate the situation.
We adored its smart story and layered plotline
Discarding the run-of-the-mill approach, the show creator and writer Mark Brotherhood has given us a fresh crime-solving approach. So far, we have seen and reviewed a bunch of British police detective shows (and movies) in our Focus magazine. However, this show is unique because of its quirky content and unusual storytelling.
It was invigorating to watch Ludwig approach the police detective’s case with a smart set of ideas and interpretations. It has a layered plotline, as each episode deals with a new case.
We loved the entire ensemble cast in it
As we mentioned above, this quirky show stars David Mitchell (Ludwig) and Anna Maxwell Martin (Lucy) as the lead pair. Their childhood friendship and warm relationship have been beautifully depicted in the show. Also, there is a slight hint of love and romance between the two Ls. But then, that is pure speculation on the part of the viewers. Both David and Anna have fascinatingly portrayed their characters in it. Not to forget, Dylan Hughes (Henry Betts-Taylor), who plays Lucy’s son competently.
Besides the home front mentioned above, the ensemble cast consisting of Izuka Hoyle (DS Alice Finch), Dipo Ola (DI Russell Carter), Dorothy Atkinson (DCS Carol Shaw), Gerran Howell (DC Simon Evans), Ralph Ineson (Chief Constable Ziegler), etc. are the member of the small police team working alongside Ludwig (David Mitchell) in the show. With each one of them bringing their eccentricities to the fore in it, we loved the entire ensemble cast. It was an enjoyable experience to watch them in action.
Key details
| Genre | Comedy, Crime, Drama, Mystery, Whodunnit |
| Original Language | English (UK) |
| Season | Season (1) One |
| Episodes | Six (6) Episodes |
| Creator & Writer | Mark Brotherhood |
| Directors | Robert McKillop & Jill Robertson |
| Cast | David Mitchell (John Taylor & DCI James Taylor), Anna Maxwell Martin (Lucy Betts-Taylor), Dipo Ola (DI Russell Carter), Sophie Willan (Holly Pinder), Gerran Howell (DC Simon Evans), Izuka Hoyle (DS Alice Finch), Dylan Hughes (Henry Betts-Taylor), Dorothy Atkinson (DCS Carol Shaw), Ralph Ineson (Chief Constable Ziegler), etc. |
| Network | BBC |
Spoilers Alert: Summary of Six (6) Episodes of the Season (1) One
Episodes Summary
First Episode (S1, E1)
Puzzle setter John ‘Ludwig’ Taylor’s life is upended when his identical twin, DCI James Taylor, disappears. John reluctantly assumes his identity to track him down.
Second Episode (S1, E2)
On a mission to crack the code in his twin’s notebook, John returns to the police station. A frustrated Lucy takes matters into her own hands and plays detective herself.
Third Episode (S1, E3)
A new case takes Ludwig on a walking tour of Cambridge, where he’s faced with an impossible question. Meanwhile, Lucy goes undercover and makes a grim discovery of her own.
Fourth Episode (S1, E4)
A body falls from the fourth storey of a construction site. Was it just a terrible accident, or a perfectly executed murder? When things don’t add up, John questions his abilities.
Fifth Episode (S1, E5)
John and the gang go back to school to investigate the suspicious death of a headmaster. Lucy sneaks off on a covert mission, and a shocking revelation leaves John reeling.
Sixth Episode (S1, E6)
A cryptic late-night call from Holly sees Lucy lured into danger. Back at the station, all eyes are on John as the pressure ramps up. Will his cover finally be blown?
The poster
The rating
| FM Rating | 4.05/5 |
The conclusion
The cliffhanger ending in the first season finale certainly kept us hooked. There is more mystery to come in this very well-made crime drama. And we eagerly await its next season.
Featured Image of Ludwig (David Mitchell).
The Poster and Featured Image of the Ludwig (Season 1/2024) British Series are credited and courtesy of BBC.