David Tennant
Anna Gunn
Michael Peña
Virginia Kull
Nick Nolte
Jacki Weaver
Josh Hamilton
Kevin Rankin

Created by:
Chris Chibnall

Miniseries
2014
Mystery
Fox
TV-14

“Gracepoint” is the American version of ITV’s “Broadchurch,” which airs on BBC America in the States. This version was adapted and written by Chris Chibnall, who also created “Broadchurch.” And, boy, does “Gracepoint” owe a lot to “Broadchurch”; well, the first episode does, at least. It has not only the exact same lead actor, David Tennant, in the exact same role (this time with an American dialect), but also some of the exact same scenes and shots. However, this is definitely a version made for an American audience: The pace is brisker, and it’s not as atmospheric. That’s a smart choice, since this adaptation is for American television viewers who likely haven’t seen “Broadchurch.”

Overall, the first episode of “Gracepoint” hits all of the right notes, but it makes less of an impact than “Broadchurch.” This is largely because of the aforementioned pacing. Typically, I like a faster pace, but, for this show, they need to figure out a way to keep the depth, too. If they could merge a slightly faster pace with the same kind of depth of “Broadchurch,” then this would be the superior of the two. As it is, this version is both lighter on its feet and shallower, as a result.

Fans of “Broadchurch” may see “Gracepoint” as a dim reflection of its predecessor, but I think that “Gracepoint” does enough to distinguish itself. At times, I do experience déjà vu while watching it, but not in an unpleasant way. They capture the look of a seaside town effectively: clear and gray, with some sun. And the casting is strong and unexpectedly interesting in certain cases, especially in the casting of Nick Nolte, Jacki Weaver, and Michael Peña. I like what they’ve done overall.

However, I don’t know that this is must-see television. Plus, the first episode doesn’t give “Broadchurch” viewers a strong reason to watch it. But, if you can resist the urge to compare, then “Gracepoint” might give you just enough to keep watching. I want to see what this cast will do with the material. That’s why I’m going to stick with it. Plus, the writing is solid. It’s the same recipe made by a different team of cooks. Everything won’t be the same, but it’s the same kind of dish. …

By the season (maybe series) finale, “Gracepoint” finally does something the separates it from “Broadchurch.” The ending isn’t shocking, but it does set up a different path for a possible season two. Will they get there, though?

Overall, I prefer “Broadchurch” to “Gracepoint,” slightly. Many laud the original as great television, but I thought its first season was simply good; it was solid. I would call this version somewhat good. If “Gracepoint” gets a second season, we’ll really be able to tell.

(Side note: I must say that I’m not sure of Anna Gunn’s take on her character. Surprisingly, I don’t sense any extra layers underneath the surface.)

Verdict: Somewhat Good

About: (Source: gracepoint)

When a young boy is found dead on an idyllic beach, a major police investigation gets underway in the small California seaside town where the tragedy occurred. Soon deemed a homicide, the case sparks a media frenzy, which throws the boy’s family into further turmoil and upends the lives of all of the town’s residents.