Gum, without having seen the books yet, I want to say that the discussion will be of both the film - and the books. Who knows, the film might not be true to the book. Detective Wallander might not resemble the character in the book - might be Kenneth Branagh's interpretation of him. That might be the real advantage of discussing both at the same time.
Babi - I've been thinking about the advantage of viewing the episode more than once. Oh, yes, it was grim, bleak, gritty and gray. The first time I was concerntrating more on who dun it - and the grizzly murders/suicide the detective was drawn into solving. The second time, I was more aware of what was going on his personal life - and the impact it had on his job. It was the second time around that I felt I knew the man - and prepared me to watch him more closely in future episodes..
Welcome, Rosebud - yes, viewing area is the deciding factor when choosing TV screen size. Our flat screen is only 32 " - but with the HD (high def) it is amazingly bright and clear (even the gray Swedish landscape) and suits the small room just fine. You don't need huge, unless your room is huge, Jackie.
Gum, I have been waiting to hear that most have had a chance to view the first episode before we begin to talk about it -
Shall we say we'll begin tomorrow? I keep letting out my thoughts of the first episode anyone - without intending to.