Mmm, yes. It really is very good, and I'm not just talking about the pasta. There is something truly awesome about the original series, even though the actor differs from the books in almost every aspect of his appearance. They have boldly captured the essence of the character and just gone ahead and chosen the right actor for the job, as one should. The chemistry of the trio of Augello, Fazio and the inspector make for a delicious mix of bawdy honour, hilarious comic intercourse and intelligent, obvious respect. The setting is, of course, impossibly beautiful, but there is no fear in showing the rougher side of Sicily and they do. What sets this show apart from every other one in it's wake (and there are many) is the fabulous depth of mystery and disillusion of the audience during each case. Everything just works and is believable even in its most comic and devastating moments. A proper Italian saga.
Review of Detective Montalbano
