Zen is BBC's latest detective drama. It stars Rufus Sewell and it's main conceit is that the eponymous Zen is an Italian Detective and the show is set in Italy, where a variety of accented actors speak in English. It doesn't work. Everyone in it dresses impeccably and there are numerous references to brooding Mediterraneans and sophisticated intrigue. A clear case of style over substance. The TV detective has to have a quirk or gimmick to hang his hat on, Zen's is that he lives with his mother. Not the stereotypical Italian mother with broad thighs and open arms but a urbane sophisticate. As trademarks go this is one of the least compelling.In fact Zen is little more than Bergerac with a faux sheen of sophistication. Very disappointing.
