'Shardlake' review: Tudor murder mystery works best when it's a buddy comedy

Matthew Shardlake and Jack Barak are a great team.

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Martin Mlaka's photo of Arthur Hughes for Disney+ in "Shardlake."

In today's era, mystery shows such as Only Murders in the Building and A Murder at the End of the World heavily rely on technology to solve crimes. However, it's refreshing to witness a series that moves in the opposite direction. In this case, it's Hulu's Shardlake, which brings us back in history to Tudor England.

The television series Shardlake is based on the books written by C.J. Sansom. This type of detective story is a classic one without any mention of modern technology like phones or DNA tests. Instead, it highlights the gritty investigation tactics used by detectives in the old days. The show offers a lot of historical fascination along with a perfect ambiance. Although, the plot of the show can sometimes stretch out too long. It is when the story focuses on its unique detectives, Matthew Shardlake (played by Arthur Hughes) and Jack Barak (played by Anthony Boyle), that it truly shines.

What's Shardlake?

The celebrity featured in the "Shardlake" series on Disney+ is Sean Bean. He played a significant role in the show. Adrienn Sabo took the credit for the picture.

The book, Shardlake involves us in the religious changes that happened in England back in 1536. The King, Henry VIII refused to accept the Roman Catholic Church and wanted to close the monasteries that opposed him. Then Robin Singleton, the messenger of the king, was found dead at Saint Donatus monastery. The most valid reason for this was the crime of treason against the king.

Nonetheless, the legal system is obligated to conduct a comprehensive investigation into Singleton's demise. The probe should include substantial proof against the potential murderers, prior to the monarch completely dissolving Saint Donatus. As a result, Matthew Shardlake, who is Thomas Cromwell's (Sean Bean) preferred investigator, is recruited. With his intellect and skill at detecting the truth, Shardlake intends to confront the purportedly deceitful monks of Saint Donatus. However, when he arrives at the monastery and when additional corpses begin to accumulate, he will unveil a mystery within another mystery - one that could potentially undermine his faith in the crown and his nation.

When Shardlake starts investigating, the show has some great, atmospheric visuals. The creepy Saint Donatus is full of religious symbols and its marshes are as dangerous as the possible killer inside. Religion is still a big theme, and Shardlake watches how the monks live with their faith and handle the hate from some members of the Church of England. But the best part is Shardlake's complicated friendship with Cromwell's untrustworthy assistant Jack Barak.

"Hughes And Boyle's Surprising Buddy Comedy In Shardlake"

Credit for the image of Arthur Hughes and Jack Barak in "Shardlake" goes to Adrienn Szabo from Disney+.

As soon as Barak enters the picture, it's evident that Shardlake has no desire to associate with him. Barak embodies everything that Shardlake is not: a traditionally handsome ladies' man who frequently sports ostentatious codpieces. In contrast, Shardlake has a physical impairment that is ridiculed, leaving him feeling like an outcast in Tudor society.

Barak and Shardlake have different opinions on how to solve Singleton's murder. Barak sees all Catholics as immoral and would like to demolish Saint Donatus as soon as possible. However, Shardlake believes in following the law and wouldn't manipulate the truth if he found out that the monks didn't commit the crime.

Hughes and Boyle both give impressive performances, with Hughes displaying a level-headed and analytical approach, while Boyle brings a fiery and passionate energy to the screen. As a result, Shardlake and Barak form an unusual but enjoyable partnership, as they tease each other and become enthused by any breakthroughs in their investigation. Although their connection isn't always fleshed out, particularly with the addition of a love triangle involving Alice the maid (played by Ruby Ashbourne Serkis) and in scenes where they are apart, their overall dynamic is still incredibly compelling.

Shardlake is a captivating show with only four episodes, and it never becomes tedious. However, when Shardlake and Barak appear together on screen, the show becomes more lively and exciting as a whodunit story.

The popular show Shardlake is currently available for streaming on Hulu.

Belen Edwards works at Mashable as an Entertainment Reporter. Her area of expertise includes movies and TV shows related to fantasy and science fiction. She is particularly interested in adaptations, animation, and all things nerdy.

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