Outlander star's gritty detective drama lands on Netflix with rare perfect score
Rebus is the second adaptation of Sir Ian Rankin's Inspector Rebus novels. The collection began in 1987 and it is still going strong, with 25 tales in total.
Fans of Outlander star Richard Rankin will be thrilled to learn that his hit series, Rebus, is now streaming on Netflix UK. The show marks the second on-screen adaptation of Sir Ian Rankin's renowned Inspector Rebus novels, which comprise 25 gripping tales that started captivating readers back in 1987.
The series stars Richard as the titular detective navigating Edinburgh's underworld to dismantle an organized crime ring, while struggling with personal demons.
Rebus received widespread critical acclaim upon its initial release, earning a rare perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 12 reviews.
Richard's portrayal of the character garnered high praise. The Spectator wrote: "Richard Rankin is so perfectly believable in the role that you never tire of watching him and keep rooting for him even when he's being a complete and utter idiot."
The New Statesman added: "Part of what makes this Rebus so alluring is down to the beautifully concise manner in which the actor who plays him conveys his haphazard competence, his stoicism and feral endurance. He is so believable."
Initially broadcast on BBC One, the show delves into John Rebus's life as he adjusts to life post-divorce and grapples with a rapidly shifting workplace landscape.
Comprising six standalone episodes, Richard previously shared his thoughts on taking on the iconic character in an interview with Digital Spy: "He's one of the, I suppose, most iconic Scottish detectives, and is still very much present in Ian Rankin's novels. He's got such a big fanbase."
Rankin acknowledged: "So I think taking it on, I was probably aware that there'd be certain expectations and anticipation."
He added: "And they would have their own version of what they think the character should look like – which I think is good to be aware of."
He elaborated: "To do the character as much justice as possible, I think you have to just acknowledge that, and park it, because you're not going to be able to give every version of everyone's expectations."
To prepare for the role, the actor dedicated considerable time to research, which included delving into several Rebus novels.
Rankin aimed to reimagine the character in his own unique way, especially since the series was "not a reboot or sequel".
His portrayal garnered rave reviews, with The Guardian describing him as "the most irresistible incarnation yet", further adding: "Richard Rankin's Rebus is physical, forceful and irresistible, his eyes twinkling by default yet capable of glazing over with regret or being suddenly clouded by crimson mist."
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