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5.0

92 product ratings

89 users rated this 5 out of 5 stars
3 users rated this 4 out of 5 stars
0 users rated this 3 out of 5 stars
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Good value

Entertaining

Engaging characters

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by wa8ssq
22 Apr, 2020
No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency - FUN, INSIGHTFUL, WITTY ... Wish More Seasons Were Forthcoming
This DVD covers the early books in the world-wide, best selling series, entitled "The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency,' by Alexander McCall Smith. The books in this series are uplifting and heart-warming in their coverage of the people, culture, and traditions of Botswana (Africa). This DVD set of 3 discs covers the early books in that series. The actors chosen to portray the books' characters are excellent. The DVD set follows the books fairly closely (of course, some liberties are taken to make the video more appealing and better adapt the plots to the TV screen. IMHO, this DVD set is a great value and you the entertainment value of the stories on it are wonderful. My only regret is that the powers-that-be did not continue producing more episodes after this first season. It would be wonderful for BBC/PBS to take this on as a project, re-assemble the cast, if necessary, and continue capturing the author's entire series of books into future TV episodes.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: New
by scipg81
15 Jun, 2016
A African Female Detective:
This was a surprise to me. I wondered how in a basically male dominated culture a female could take the lead as a detective in Africa. It was smartly acted and written. I had never seen this before. The approach was different because of the environment this female had to operate in, and to my wonderful surprise this series is a gem. Unfortunately there are only two seasons of it and only one is available; so the viewer is left hanging at the end of the first season of it. Even how she becomes a detective is interesting. She is the glue to the supporting cast around her and they themselves are interesting. The African scenery is wonderful; you feel like you are there. The way it is told, while it is in Africa, it's very relatable to the viewer( some of the investigations she takes on); therefore allowing you to see the cultural differences and similarities; showing that basically we have similar issues, we're the same. I like that.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by arnot517
30 Sep, 2015
The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency
I have read and reread all of Alexander McCall Smiths books, they are well written, intelligent entertainment that is never insulting, older people love these works as much as children. Smith writes about factious people in Scotland which I love, yet my favorite characters are from this series. These interesting stories cover well over 20 books. You get a feel for these simple yet elegant people in Botswana Africa and their traditions, I can't help but feel close to Precious Ramotswe, of The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency as well as her odd-ball assistant Mma Makutsi, all of the towns folk that wrap around these main characters are lovable and engaging, even when they are misguided or simply no good. I recommend Series 1 on DVD, these actors were beautifully matched to the original books which is always delightful. I intend to write to this amazing author to please promote Series 2, this creative masterpiece could be one of the best viewing opportunities for any family.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by peggcran71
28 Oct, 2020
Charming!!!
Engaging, different, upbeat, wonderful! I’ve been a mystery fan for 50 years! This one is sweet, delightful, and well put together! Love Jill Scott! Would recommend this highly to any mystery fan! The discs are in good shape. The characters are beautiful, the stories keep you watching. Wonderful!
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by lappley
21 Oct, 2020
Entertaining, light and easy.
An entertaining look into the small town life of an African country. While mostly light and easy, there are bad guys too, though violence is not a theme. It even grew on my husband who now wants to read the books. Well produced, good acting and script, good characters and costumes, good music and stories. I enjoyed each episode.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by xoogie2
13 May, 2020
Watch a Mystery & Enjoy learning about African Culture at the same time
I've always loved this series for a chance to see Black African people as the main characters moving around in their world on their own terms. Adored Jill Scott's portrayal of Mma Ramotswe and Anika None Rose's Grace Makutsi. I can't wait for Season 2 to be released and it needs to be.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by taught31years
17 Apr, 2019
Sweet, engaging show; should have gone more than a season
Based on beloved books that cover characters and locations not often seen in popular shows and movies. Jill Scott heads a strong cast and you root for her to solve each case with her usual wit and charm. Such a shame this ended after just one season---but at least it's on DVD so it can be enjoyed forever.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by lovelink2005
12 Oct, 2022
Enchanting!
I read all books in this series, about 23 now and absolutely loved them! Also saw the original movie. I have not watched these videos yet, but the cast is the same and totally amazing. Could not be more perfectly cast. Often screen versions of books are so disappointing. Not here! They bring the books alive! I’m sure I will love these just as much!
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by rxznivfdqgo@deleted
20 Oct, 2021
Lively, enjoyable viewing
I thoroughly enjoyed the portrayal of the characters, created by author Alexander McCall Smith in his many novels on the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. The casting seems excellent, and the humor and heart of the characters and plots come alive in the series rendition. Scenery and culture of the people of Botswana are also vividly portrayed.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned
by junebugspal74
08 Apr, 2020
Absolutely wonderful
This is one of my all time favorite series. I wish they could have continued the rest of the books in this series. I have read them all to date. Very interesting and unique writing by Alexander McCall Smith. I highly recommend this product!
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned

The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency: The Complete First Season (DVD, 2009, 3-Disc Set)

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Ratings and reviews

Most relevant reviews

No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency - FUN, INSIGHTFUL, WITTY ... Wish More Seasons Were Forthcoming

A African Female Detective:

The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency

Charming!!!

Entertaining, light and easy.

Watch a Mystery & Enjoy learning about African Culture at the same time

Sweet, engaging show; should have gone more than a season

Enchanting!

Lively, enjoyable viewing

Absolutely wonderful

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