David Mitchell stars in new police procedural comedy on BBC One
- David Mitchell stars as John 'Ludwig' Taylor, a puzzle expert who becomes a reluctant crime solver after his twin brother, a police detective, goes missing.
- The show features a mix of familiar tropes from other crime procedurals, with John using his crossword skills to solve murder cases while impersonating his brother.
- Despite mixed reviews regarding Mitchell's performance, the series may appeal to audiences who enjoy light-hearted crime dramas.
The new BBC One comedy-drama features David Mitchell as John 'Ludwig' Taylor, a crossword puzzle expert who is thrust into a police investigation when his identical twin brother, a detective, goes missing. The story begins with John living a quiet life focused on puzzles until he receives a call from his sister-in-law, prompting him to travel to Cambridge. There, he learns about his brother's disappearance and a cryptic note left behind. In an effort to uncover the mystery, John decides to infiltrate the local police force, posing as his brother. This leads him down a familiar path for neurodivergent-coded characters in crime dramas, reminiscent of shows like Monk and Sherlock. As he navigates the challenges of police work, John employs his unique puzzle-solving abilities to tackle murder cases, adding a quirky twist to the procedural format. The series features a strong supporting cast, including Ralph Ineson and Dipo Ola, alongside guest appearances from notable actors. While Mitchell's performance has received mixed reviews, his natural charm and intelligence shine through, contributing to the show's overall appeal. Despite some criticisms, Ludwig may resonate with viewers who enjoy light-hearted and whimsical crime procedurals. The success of similar shows suggests that audiences are drawn to this genre, making Ludwig a potential hit in the realm of escapist television.