"Faithful unto Death" is superior to "Death of a Hollow Man", which was decent but also disappointing, but not quite as exceptional as "The Killings at Badger's Drift" and "Written in Blood", two of the best episodes of the show.
It is a great episode and almost a classic. There is very little wrong with it, though while it was a very funny sight to see Barnaby behaving strangely after eating the cannabis-filled cake it was a little out of kilter to have a scene as, as somewhat entertaining as it was, silly as that in such a dark and complex case.
The deliciously dark final solution is much more satisfying this time around, something that was one of "Death of a Hollow Man's" biggest problems, while the story is absorbing from start to finish. There is a lot going on without being cluttered or rushed, and that nothing is what it seems, or very few people are who they seem adds to the complexity.
As always, the production values are top notch, with to die for scenery, the idyllic look of it contrasting very well with the story's grimness, and quaint and atmospheric photography. The music fits perfectly, and the theme tune one of the most memorable and instantly recognisable of the genre. The script is smart, thought-provoking and suitably grim, with even some nice humour. The characters are particularly colourful, with delightful Elfrida and Bunny coming close to stealing the show.
John Nettles is superb as Barnaby, giving the role humour, intelligence and methodical thoughtfulness. Daniel Casey is a great contrasting partner as Troy, the two work wonders together and it was nice to see Troy congratulated. As does Jane Wymark in another strong characterisation. Eleanor Summerfield, Peter Jones and the wonderful Roger Allam are particularly great support.
Overall, a great episode and almost a classic. 9/10 Bethany Cox
It is a great episode and almost a classic. There is very little wrong with it, though while it was a very funny sight to see Barnaby behaving strangely after eating the cannabis-filled cake it was a little out of kilter to have a scene as, as somewhat entertaining as it was, silly as that in such a dark and complex case.
The deliciously dark final solution is much more satisfying this time around, something that was one of "Death of a Hollow Man's" biggest problems, while the story is absorbing from start to finish. There is a lot going on without being cluttered or rushed, and that nothing is what it seems, or very few people are who they seem adds to the complexity.
As always, the production values are top notch, with to die for scenery, the idyllic look of it contrasting very well with the story's grimness, and quaint and atmospheric photography. The music fits perfectly, and the theme tune one of the most memorable and instantly recognisable of the genre. The script is smart, thought-provoking and suitably grim, with even some nice humour. The characters are particularly colourful, with delightful Elfrida and Bunny coming close to stealing the show.
John Nettles is superb as Barnaby, giving the role humour, intelligence and methodical thoughtfulness. Daniel Casey is a great contrasting partner as Troy, the two work wonders together and it was nice to see Troy congratulated. As does Jane Wymark in another strong characterisation. Eleanor Summerfield, Peter Jones and the wonderful Roger Allam are particularly great support.
Overall, a great episode and almost a classic. 9/10 Bethany Cox