Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries

Phryne Fisher is a daring, stylish private detective who prowls the back streets and jazz clubs of late 1920s Melbourne, taking on murders that expose social injustice and hidden secrets. With a pearl-handled pistol, a sharp wit and a taste for fast cars and finer things, she slips between high society and the city's seedier corners, upsetting expectations wherever she goes. Surrounded by a loyal circle that includes the clever typist Dot Williams and the steady Inspector John "Jack" Robinson, Phryne applies charm, intuition and modern views on gender and class to untangle motives and name perpetrators, all while savoring the pleasures of her fortunate life. Her cases touch on politics, family secrets and the changing morals of the age.

First broadcast in 2012, the series was created by Fiona Eagger and Deb Cox, and it's adapted from Kerry Greenwood's Phryne Fisher novels. It was produced in Australia with careful period design and energetic pacing.

The show received critical recognition within Australia, earning nominations at national television awards and attracting praise for Essie Davis's performance, which helped the series gain an international audience and continued fan support. Critics singled out the supporting cast, the witty scripts, and the chemistry that anchored the series.

Phryne's wardrobe, era soundtrack and fearless persona sparked renewed interest in 1920s fashion and vintage culture, while the series helped introduce international viewers to Melbourne's historic locales and Australian television exports. It helped fuel fan communities, themed events and renewed interest in vintage fashion among international viewers.

Critics generally responded positively, the show holds a 7.644/10 average from 163 votes, praising its blend of mystery, humor and period detail. Reviewers praised the period detail, brisk plotting and the show's focus on gender and class issues, and many viewers were drawn to its confident lead, clever mysteries and light, witty tone.