8-minute read
Premise
If you remember the 80s—when big hair, synth tunes, and noir crime dramas ruled—then you probably kept watching Bulman for the same reasons I did. It’s about a retired detective, George Bulman, played by Don Henderson, who’s trying to escape his past but keeps getting pulled back in. The show kicks off with a slow burn but had this hypnotic way of pulling you deeper each episode. Think smart, gritty detective tales packed with political intrigue, gadgets, and that classic synth theme. It’s like MI5 meets Life on Mars, but way less flashy. And honestly? Bulman’s world feels more real than a lot of cop shows today. The pacing keeps you hooked, even if the cases are quiet and cerebral. Watching Bulman was like opening a mystery novel floating on an ocean of the 80s—surprisingly compelling and still worth your time.
Characters
- George Bulman – The detective with a genius for gadgets and a mind as sharp as a scalpel. Tried and tested, he’s now a private eye in the North West, often tangled in political messes.
- Lucy McGinty – Sharp as a tack, Bulman’s assistant. She’s clever, resourceful, and keeps him grounded amid the chaos. Think of her as his steadying hand.
- Bill Dugdale – Ex-intelligence officer with secrets. Dugdale’s shady political dealings pull Bulman into covert shadows.
- Jack Lambie – Bulman’s former boss, the gruff police chief who occasionally drops in to remind him of his police roots.
- DI Holmes – Pragmatic police officer partner when Bulman drifts back into the system. Likes rules, but knows when to bend them.
- SDS Mackay – Contact in the force, he provides crucial intel.Always in the background, helpful but not overbearing.
- Derek Willis – Bulman’s old colleague with insider knowledge. Like a ghost from the past showing up at just the right time.
Production and Style
Creative vision
Produced by Granada, Bulman focuses on brains over brawn. Its writers craft stories that are thoughtful, layered, and just a little bit dark. Think tense political games, not shootouts. Bulman’s character is complex—pensive, clever, and a bit cynical. That’s what drew viewers in, and what makes it timeless.
Visual & Aural Style
Filmed on location in Manchester, the series captures the urban grit perfectly. Interiors are moody and atmospheric. The theme music—electronic with orchestral hints—sets a contemplative mood. It’s understated but memorable, matching Bulman’s introspective vibe.
Series Structure & Storylines
- Series 1 (1985): Kicks off with Bulman setting up as a private detective. We see him navigating old contacts and new cases, often haunted by his police past.
- Series 2 (1987): Things get darker. Blackmail, corporate espionage, political scandals. Bulman’s detachment is tested as he gets deeper into conspiracy territory. Dugdale’s covert requests lead him into increasingly dangerous waters.
Writing, Themes & Tone
The show’s heart lies in clever surveillance, ethical grey areas, and Bulman’s philosophical musings. Gadgets are present, sure, but they serve character and plot—not spectacle. The tone remains deliberate and layered, reflecting Bulman’s inner world and the murky investigations he’s drawn into.
Reception and Cultural Impact
- Critics raved about its clever plots and Don Henderson’s subtle, compelling performance.
- It shifted from typical police procedurals to more psychological and spy-influenced mysteries.
- Bulman carved out a cult following, inspiring later detectives who are brooding, introspective, and unorthodox.
- It also set a template for character-driven detective dramas that fans still celebrate today.
Iconic Episodes
- “A Kind of Killing” (Series 1): Bulman stumbles into a political conspiracy buried beneath an apparent suicide. The reveal? It’s connected to his own past. Classic slow-burning but intense.
- “Dead Man’s Shoes” (Series 2): Corporate cover-up at its most dangerous. Bulman and Lucy use surveillance tricks and quick thinking to outsmart shadowy enemies. It’s a tense, edge-of-the-seat episode.
- “Old Flames” (Series 2): Personal history resurfaces for Bulman. Loyalty, betrayal, and old emotions collide, adding depth to his stoic exterior.
Final Thoughts
Bulman stands out among British crime dramas. It blends detective smarts with political intrigue and rich character stories. Don Henderson’s quiet intensity is unforgettable. And Siobhan Redmond’s Lucy offers both wit and emotional depth. It’s a slow-burn series that rewards patience. If you crave layered mysteries with a touch of noir, this one’s a must-watch. Its influence is woven into today’s detective dramas, and its mood? Still hauntingly relevant.