The title “Murder in a Small Town” is both descriptive and vague. The new Fox procedural centers around a homicide—likely multiple murders—set in the quaint village of Gibsons, located off the west coast of Canada. However, the name lacks distinction, failing to differentiate itself from other murder-themed shows like Hulu’s “Under the Bridge,” HBO’s “True Detective,” or Peacock’s “Poker Face.”
“Murder in a Small Town” premiered on September 24 at 8 p.m. and features a cast including Rossif Sutherland, Kristin Kreuk, Mya Lowe, and James Cromwell. Created by Ian Weir and inspired by L.R. Wright’s novels, the show conveys a dreary yet cozy vibe, as reflected in the village’s constant drizzle.
The plot follows Karl Alberg (Sutherland), a police chief relocating from the city seeking a quieter life, and Cassandra Lee (Kreuk), the local librarian who’s intrigued by him despite her past romantic misfortunes. After connecting on a dating app, their initial romance is established through friendly encounters, but the narrative quickly shifts to crime-solving when 85-year-old Carlyle Burke is discovered dead.
Despite the show’s premise, the mystery unfolds in a lackluster manner. Red herrings are exaggerated to an almost absurd degree, leading to a resolution that feels predictable for both characters and viewers alike. The motivations behind the crime lack detail and depth, falling flat in terms of character development.
Attempts to visualize Alberg’s detective skills through dynamic camera techniques and exaggerated effects feel out of place, contrasting sharply with his character’s ordinary nature. Although he’s portrayed as a relatable and observant person, the explanations for his deductions often come off as confusing.
The potential for a rich, interwoven community story in Gibsons is underutilized. While the two main characters are somewhat interesting, the secondary characters lack depth or meaningful backgrounds, leaving viewers with a limited sense of the town’s dynamics.
Sutherland’s portrayal of Karl presents him as a reserved yet fundamentally good individual, while Kreuk’s Cassandra is energetic yet practical. Together, their chemistry is subtle, with moments of teasing that suggest a deeper connection. Although “Murder in a Small Town” has potential, it needs to explore its characters and their relationships more thoroughly to reveal what makes this rural setting unique.