Disney Plus Launches Captivating Murder Mystery Set in Portugal
The latest addition to the streaming landscape is a compelling murder mystery series that will have viewers canceling their weekend plans. If It's Tuesday, It's Murder, a seven-episode Spanish-language dramedy now available on Disney Plus, transports audiences to the sun-drenched landscapes of Portugal where a group holiday takes a deadly turn.
A Holiday Turned Nightmare
The series opens with Spanish tourists embarking on what should be a relaxing week-long vacation in Portugal. Their plans are shattered when Fernando, one of their travel companions, is discovered dead in a hotel bathtub under suspicious circumstances. The local police initially dismiss the death as an accident involving an overweight alcoholic with heart medication, but the discovery of electrical burns on the body suggests something more sinister.
The investigation reveals that a hair dryer was thrown into the bath with Fernando before being discarded out a window, transforming what should have been a carefree holiday into a chilling crime scene.
Amateur Detectives Take Charge
Rather than returning home under a cloud of grief, the remaining tourists transform into citizen detectives. This eclectic group of true-crime enthusiasts and mystery novel fans decides to investigate the murder themselves, navigating:
- Disinterested local police who seem eager to close the case quickly
- A string of potential suspects within their hotel and the surrounding community
- The looming threat of expulsion from Portugal if they interfere too much
- Growing suspicion that the murderer might be among their own travel companions
As the investigation progresses under the crumbling roof of their once-grand hotel, the amateur sleuths manage to explore some of Lisbon's tourist attractions while unraveling the mystery.
A Unique Approach to Crime Storytelling
This series distinguishes itself from typical crime dramas through its specific tone and structure. If It's Tuesday, It's Murder embraces the "cosy crime" aesthetic rather than the gritty realism of Nordic noir, drawing comparisons to popular series like Only Murders in the Building.
The seven-episode format cleverly corresponds to the seven days of the fictional vacation, with each installment covering one day of both the holiday and the investigation. This structural choice creates a unique pacing that mirrors the unfolding mystery in real time.
Viewer Reception and Streaming Details
While the series hasn't yet accumulated enough reviews for a Rotten Tomatoes score, early viewer feedback on IMDb has been overwhelmingly positive. One enthusiastic reviewer described the show as "laugh out loud" entertaining, while others have expressed hope for a second season continuation.
The Spanish-language production offers English subtitles for international audiences, making this cross-cultural murder mystery accessible to viewers worldwide. If It's Tuesday, It's Murder represents another intriguing addition to Disney Plus's growing international content library, demonstrating the platform's commitment to diverse storytelling beyond mainstream Hollywood productions.
For those seeking weekend entertainment that combines mystery, humor, and international flair, this Portuguese-set series offers a compelling alternative to more conventional crime dramas. The show's unique premise, engaging characters, and picturesque setting create a viewing experience that stands out in the crowded streaming landscape.
