Britain's Campion: A 1930's Class-Act Detective

Searching Netflix one night for a decent detective show, I stumbled upon a British flick I'd never heard of, formerly on Mystery! Entitled, "The Case of the Late Pig." "What a ridiculous title," I thought, and "I don't like too many shows made after the 1970's." I also have mixed emotions about British pieces. Not only do I fail to appreciate many of the plots and even the humor, but quite a number of the men in those shows sound like they have marbles in their mouths. Still, fair's fair, and I am always willing to give what may be a good show a chance. There are some sixteen Campion¹ episodes, and if the series proved to be good, this would represent a real cache of entertainment.

Durst We Give Campion a Try?

I asked my wife if she'd mind if we try this Campion series out? She acquiesced, so the mouse was clicked with the option of stopping within a few minutes if we weren't instantly amused. Of course, the introductory moments usually include a theme song and the credits. I had to smile. I found the theme light and airy, cheerful, contemporarily believable, and amusing. I might like this-I think I'm going to like this! But I've been fooled in the past...

Introducing the Main Characters - Albert Campion

Peter Davison, about 38 at the time, plays Albert Campion, more simply called Campion. A handsome Dapper Dan, Campion exhibits perfect posture and impeccable politeness. He is not only well-to-do, but gives the appearance of being incapable of "dirty work." Campion has an attending man with a most unlikely name who assists him in the common matters of life. Campion is dry-witted, though not so much so as some of the characters found in other British pieces, and he is most intelligent. He is exceptional at conversation with a smile that is most endearing.

Introducing the Main Characters - Magersfontein Lugg

Apparently named for a battle in the Second Boer War, Magersfontein Lugg (played by Brian Glover) is a former burglar and the bald, gruff, somewhat shady assistant to Campion. Possessing his share of strength, Lugg assists Campion not only in the routines of life, but in any scuffles with unsavory characters. He possesses another sort of charm, not quite antithetical to Campion, but sufficiently different, so that he can obtain information from sources different from Campion's circle. Unfortunately, Lugg suffers a bit from the previously mentioned "marble disease."

The Style and Feel of the Campion Series

If you've had a rather long day, and would enjoy a little trip to the past, when style and manners were more refined, and life a little slower, yet you don't wish to abandon intelligence, this show's most definitely for you. The cars are beautiful-the clothing is too. The buildings are countryside England and the people are genuine. The photography is colorful and inviting and Campion is surprisingly agile and capable when the moment is right. Finally, Campion has a head on his shoulders, and demonstrates surprising insight and adaptability. Hey, this show is a sleeper that must be seen to be appreciated! And contrary to the IMDB review here, Peter Davison as Albert Campion, takes total charge in this excellent British detective series.

¹ Based on the books by Margery Allingham, (1904-1966).