From CSI to Criminal Minds, from Without a Trace to Law and Order, there seems to be a never ending production line of crime drama, coming out of Hollywood. Ranging from exceptional mind stimulating drama to mediocre melodrama. Even the Australian TV Industry has attempted to crack into this market with shows from Blue Heelers to the more recent mini-series Underbelly. But with so much choice available, this leaves the question what makes successful crime drama? Arguably, CSI is the most successful show in terms of financial gain. It even expands beyond the original CSI, with spin offs including CSI-Miami and CSI- NY. Even though it has lasted 12 seasons, I feel it lacks personal engagement and character development. 
I personally prefer the Fox Networks' Bones. Bones first aired in September 2005 and is now in its 8th Season. The protagonists include Dr. Temperance 'Bones' Brennan a Forensic Anthropologist and Special Agent Seeley Booth, together they solve murders. So what's different? Firstly, 'Bones' (Brennan) uses the bones of the victims in order to gain information on how they were killed and where. However, most importantly its the strong relationships and tensions between the characters that keeps the audience coming back from week to week. In particular, the sexual tension between Bones and Booth is evident, driving the continuing storyline throughout the 8 seasons. Another aspect which draws in an audience is the focus on some of the murderers. Often, their murders are developed into story lines which transcend through episodes. Some of these include, the Gravedigger and Gormogon. Bones, ultimately is a combination of forensics, crime, romance and fantasy that makes it appeal to a wider audience. It stands out from the number crime drama TV shows on Australian television.- Rachael -
