Compared to American shows, Canadian ones, no matter how well conceived, often miss the bar, but Republic of Doyle surpasses expectations. I know, I know, the title may seem a little silly, and it's hard to imagine that another cop-type show has a place in your television viewing schedule, so let me convince you.
Republic of Doyle takes place in Newfoundland, with very recognizable landmarks if you are a Newf (I am not, but had the pleasure of watching the show with one). Never having been to Newfoundland myself, I was surprised to see how much it reminded me of Ireland, and combining that with the Newfinese accents, the show picks up a local Canadian flavour that will have you chuckling along with it. In the pilot, two men from Alberta have arrived, and they are oh so recognizable in the cowboy hats, with which they never seem to part. But don't worry, our heroes see how obvious it is and make fun of it.
And our heroes are really the reason to watch. Jake Doyle (played by Newfoundland local Allan Hawco) and his father Malachy (Sean McGinley) are a team of private investigators. As they pursue their investigations, the shenanigans they get themselves speak both to their natures and their talents. Malachy is a former cop, still capable, but a little older and slower than he once was. Jake is a hot-head; if he's in for an inch, he's in for a mile. And though their methods are not exactly orthodox (and where would the fun be if they were), they still know their business and get the job done.
The entire future of the show rests on Allan Hawco's shoulders. As Jake, he has to seduce and charm the audience while continuing to be rash and getting himself into trouble believably. He is capable of doing it.
The pilot was entertaining, the Newfinese delightful, and the characters left me wanting more, so my advice to you is to go check out this show because we could just have a Canadian hit on our hands, and then you'll have to tell me whether you want Jake to end up with his wife...ex-wife...woman he's divorcing, Nikki (played by Rachel Wilson whom you may remember from Breaker High) or the hot new constable, Leslie (Krystin Pellerin). Let me know!
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