It starts promisingly, with a cigarette in Rebus’s mouth. In Ian Rankin’s noirish crime novels, Detective Sergeant John Rebus is an antihero to whom booze, fags and violence are key. The new BBC One dramatisation captures the essence of Rebus, with Richard Rankin embodying the character’s gritty nature. This younger version of Rebus, still a sergeant, navigates present-day Edinburgh with a new sidekick Siobhan and encounters familiar faces like Malcolm Fox and Ger Cafferty. As the story unfolds, themes of wealth disparity, lawlessness, and family dynamics are explored, setting the stage for a modern portrayal of Rebus.
Richard Rankin’s portrayal of Rebus is dynamic and engaging, capturing the character’s complexity convincingly. The series attempts to reinvent the traditional image of the troubled lawman but faces challenges in distinguishing itself from similar narratives. However, the show’s exploration of societal issues and character dynamics adds depth to the familiar detective genre. Ultimately, Rebus on BBC One offers a fresh perspective on a beloved character, blending traditional noir elements with contemporary themes.