entertainment

Murder on the amalfi coast: itv’s ‘a taste for murder’ serves up intrigue and familiar faces

A gripping new crime drama, ‘A Taste for Murder,’ is hitting ITV this April, promising a deliciously dark holiday setting and a cast packed with recognizable stars. But beneath the picturesque Italian backdrop lies a complex investigation that’s already got viewers hooked.

Detective mottram’s unwanted getaway

The series, created by Matt Baker and directed by Jon Jones, follows DCI Joe Mottram (Warren Brown) as he and his teenage daughter, Angelica (Beau Gadsdon), attempt a much-needed respite in the in-laws’ villa. However, their carefully constructed break is shattered by the sudden death of Mottram’s wife – a tragedy that swiftly plunges him into a treacherous murder investigation.

But the stakes escalate exponentially when the cast list reveals a host of familiar faces from recent ITV hits like ‘Line of Duty’ and ‘Luther.’ This isn’t just another procedural; it’s a layered mystery with high-profile players adding to the tension.

A star-studded ensemble

A star-studded ensemble

Let’s meet the key players: Warren Brown, known for his intense performances in ‘The Responder’ and ‘Luther,’ embodies the weary DCI Mottram. Beau Gadsdon, who captivated audiences as Jyn Erso in ‘Rogue One,’ portrays the troubled Angelica. Supporting the central duo is Phyllis Logan, a true British television icon as Elena Da Vinale, Mottram’s late wife’s mother – a woman described as “witty, fiercely loyal, and loving,” who also runs a local restaurant.

Beyond the familiar faces

Beyond the familiar faces

Rounding out the impressive cast are Urbano Barberini as Gennaro Da Vinale, the family chef and local legend; Alessandro Fella, fresh from roles in ‘Casino Royale’ and ‘Portobello,’ plays Luca Da Vinale, Gennaro’s nephew; Cristiana Dell’Anna as the formidable Naples police detective Lara Sarrancino; Gaia Scodellaro as the divorced kitchen worker Daria; Alessandro Bedetti, who recently appeared in ‘Bridget Jones’ and ‘The History of Sound,’ embodies the enigmatic Daniele; and Marouane Zotti, offering a grounded performance as Deputy Inspector Gianni Gallo.

Don’t expect easy answers

‘A Taste for Murder’ isn’t offering simple solutions. With a compelling plot, a stunning location, and a cast brimming with talent, ITV has delivered a series that’s sure to keep viewers guessing until the very end. Premieres April 29th at 9pm on ITV1 and is also available on ITVX. The stakes are high, the secrets are plentiful, and one thing's certain: this murder mystery is a delicious indulgence for crime drama fans.