Ludwig is a new BBC series that brings a fresh and quirky twist to the detective genre. Starring David Mitchell, it follows John Taylor, a socially awkward puzzle lover who is reluctantly pulled into solving crimes when his police detective twin brother, James, mysteriously disappears. To find out what happened to James, John must impersonate his brother and use his unique puzzle-solving skills to crack the cases.
The show blends light-hearted humour with mystery, offering a cosy, entertaining experience. Each episode features a new crime for John to solve, while the central mystery of James's disappearance ties the story together. John's logical approach to crime-solving, combined with his nervous and introverted personality, creates a fun contrast as he stumbles through police work, often solving the cases in unconventional ways.
David Mitchell shines as John, bringing his signature wit and awkward charm to the role. His interactions with Anna Maxwell Martin, who plays Lucy, his determined and sharp sister-in-law, add emotional depth to the series. Lucy drives the investigation forward, motivating John to keep up the ruse while they search for James. Their relationship forms the heart of the show, balancing the comedic elements with moments of genuine concern and urgency.
While Ludwig doesn't offer intense drama or complex plots, it thrives as a light and enjoyable watch. The crimes are simple, and the stakes never feel too high, making it perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back mystery series. Its cosy atmosphere, combined with Mitchell's dry humour and the fun puzzle-solving aspect, makes it a charming addition to the detective genre.
In short, Ludwig is a pleasant, entertaining series with a unique puzzle-based approach to crime-solving, perfect for fans looking for something witty and easy going.
