Judgment Day has the lot! It is no accident that almost ten million people tuned in back in 2000, and that is sits near the top of the ratings on here.
It boasts a fantastic, cleverly crafted story, one where the historical prelude links in brilliantly, and isn't just there to look nice. Back in the day the show had a formula that worked, multiple murders, clever twists, and big characters, in later years the show would lose sight of its roots, looking for more sensational killing methods, at the expense of a plot.
The characters are a joy, particularly the trio of celebrity judges, the humour and cutting remarks are a joy, Maggie Steed is fabulous here, so cutting and funny, an actress loaded with charisma. Timothy West and Hannah Gordon also shine.
It's hard to beat early Barnaby and Troy, such a willing formula. Funny at this stage Joyce was always tied up with the murders, I'm surprised she didn't run a mile.
Of course this episode will be remembered as the one to feature Orlando Bloom, and he's of course rather good as the heartless gigolo, but there is so much more to this one, tight script, clever mystery, fantastic use of humour, coupled with the idyllic settings make for a tremendous episode, the likes of which I fear we shall never see again.
A reminder of how utterly brilliant this show used to be, 10/10