I actually hate TV series. But as for every rule there has to be some exceptions to it. This is on of my exceptions. In my opinion what makes this series great is the actors. I've never seen anything not even big screen movies, where so many characters were this great. Almost every character is believable, or I could even say likable.

It's just can't be explained in writing. I urge everyone to watch this show, or if they don't show it in your country buy it on DVD. And why am I saying don't judge by the first season? Because it's not nearly as good as the rest. I agree the plot gets too thin. But the fact is that they haven't planned on running it for 24 episodes at first. They had to add some silly and unplanned twists to be able to make it that long. And also the regular characters are not as defined yet. I'd still recommend watching the first season, just keep in mind it only gets better for the rest. There are no stupidities in the other four seasons. I'm already frustrated that I'll have to wait at least 6 months for the sixth. (I hope there will be a sixth season)