Acorn TV's new cozy mystery series, 'Blue Murder Motel,' introduces Vanessa and Peter Coleman, a couple who traded their detective careers in New South Wales for a quieter life managing a seaside motel in the small New Zealand town of Mōwai Bay. The series, created by Kate McDermott and Steven Zanoski, aims to blend humor with intrigue, drawing comparisons to shows like 'My Life Is Murder' and 'Harry Wild.'

A New Life Interrupted

The first episode establishes the new life of Vanessa, known as Vinny, and Peter, known as Cole. Cole's health declined under the pressures of police work, prompting their career change. However, their attempt at a peaceful retirement is quickly disrupted when Mitchell, a friend of other motel guests, is found dead in a spa tub. The local constable, Jamie Haira, a recent academy graduate and the sole law enforcement officer in town, proves to be out of his depth. This situation allows Vinny's ingrained police instincts to resurface, despite Cole's initial reluctance for them to get involved.

Unraveling the Mystery

As Vinny begins to question the other guests and the motel's employee, Saffron, clues begin to emerge. Cole discovers an extra wine glass in Mitchell's room bearing lipstick, which is recognized as belonging to another guest, Maxine. Maxine's presence in the town, despite being a local, adds another layer of suspicion. The series sets up Mōwai Bay as a town with underlying secrets, suggesting that the initial murder may be just the beginning of a series of investigations for the former detectives.

Michala Banas, who plays Vinny, is noted for her more physical role, demonstrating that her detective instincts remain sharp even outside the force. Stephanie Tauevihi, as Maxine, is positioned as a character who may become a recurring helper, offering a bit of local insight. The review suggests that the community dynamics and the established characters around Vinny and Cole will be key to carrying the show, especially as the mysteries themselves are still developing.

While the first episode's mystery had some pacing and clarity issues, the chemistry between the lead actors and the established setting of the small town offer potential for the series. The show concludes with a playful nod to its premise, as teenagers vandalize the motel sign, adding the word "Murder" to "Blue Motel."

'Blue Murder Motel' is available for streaming on Acorn TV.