Introduction
This is yet another series that I missed while living overseas, although to be honest, I probably wouldn't have watched it, not being overly keen on historical crime fiction. However, on my return to the UK, I did start reading the books, primarily because I wanted something new to read and enjoyed them so much that I bought the DVD of the first series. I do still prefer more modern crime fiction, but I like a change sometimes and this ideally suits the purpose. Thirteen episodes were made in all, four of which constitute the first series. Filming came to an end after thirteen episodes because costs were too high - the episodes were filmed in Hungary because of a lack of suitable locations in the UK.

Producers/directors/screenwriters
The producer is Stephen Smallwood. There are a number of directors, including Ken Grieve, Mary McMurray and Herbert Wise. The stories were adapted to TV by various writers, including Russell Lewis, Paul Pender and Christopher Russell, based closely on Ellis Peters' books.

Sean Pertwee plays Hugh Beringar, the local sheriff. Unfortunately, Sean Pertwee did not remain in the role in further series and was replaced by Eion McCarthy and then Anthony Green. I haven't seen either of the follow-up Beringars in action, but I did really enjoy Sean Pertwee in the role as the rather dry, slightly mysterious Hugh. Beringar is good at his job and fastidious at following up clues, helped, of course, by Cadfael. One thing that does seem to be missing is the interaction between Cadfael and Beringar, who have a very close relationship in the books. I think this would have made for more interesting characterisation.

The content
The first series is made up of the first four stories in the Cadfael series: One Corpse Too Many, A Sanctuary Sparrow, The Leper of St Giles and Monk's Hood. There is a general format to the programmes - all involve a murder for which someone innocent is blamed. Cadfael believes in their innocence and helps Hugh Beringar find the real criminal. The innocent man is usually young and attractive and falls in love with a beautiful young woman who believes firmly in his innocence. Many of the crimes are solved because of Cadfael's knowledge of herbs and poisons. Most of the plots are very clever and completely unguessable.

Classification: 15

Conclusion
This is not the sort of DVD that you can sit down and watch in one sitting. Like the books, the plots are often a bit samey and yet sometimes need a lot of concentration to follow, not least because the names of characters can be difficult to remember. However, dipping into it occasionally makes a nice change from the usual crime fiction. Derek Jacobi is the main reason for the show's popularity - he is a really excellent actor and is absolutely perfect for the role. I also like that the episodes are very closely based on Ellis Peter's novels. The setting is fantastic - I had no idea it was Hungary, but it is absolutely spot-on.