S17E1, The Dagger Club

S17E1, The Dagger Club

It's a beautiful day to take a bicycle ride through the quaint village--but whatever you do, and wherever in Midsomer--do not open any mysterious packages. Or keep valuable manuscripts in your possession.. Or just live. What else is new? Oh, the new addition to the cast: Baby Betty is so adorable and sweet! But the crying, the dirty nappies, the sleep deprivation--not lovely.

Old Kate and old Charlie are still here in this first episode of Season 17. And the ever talented and bright Una Stubbs, may she rest in peace, lights up the episode. The scenery is just fantastic and it gets quite atmospheric towards the end with its dreary cool graveyard and foggy woods and suspenseful string music. Otherwise, there's no new tale to tell. This one's just eye candy!

S16E5: The Killings of Copenhagen.

S16E5: The Killings of Copenhagen.

To mark its 100th episode, Midsomer goes to... Denmark? Because...I don't know. Maybe to prank the fans like Ha! We've really changed the show now, even the language! (actually the show is very popular there). But no, thankfully--here we are...back to biscuits in Badger's Drift! Home sweet home. Beautiful buildings and scenery here. But you know how you feel when see the tin of cookies just to find out that inside is just your Mum's sewing kit? Yep, that's the feeling here in the beginning. Now Sarah's baby is finally due -- I wonder if John will miss the delivery-- don't you? Oh yes, we do. So, the intrigue does thicken up a bit with the characters who own the antique store-- they harken back to the early days of the show with their well acted quirkiness and familiar faces. Then suddenly we're in Denmark and its all Danish this and that just because a dude from the U.K. was found murdered here. Do they not see how pregnant Sarah is? Solve that murder via email, folks! So as usual we get the run around until we get to the actual identity and motives for the murders, but the lady detectives are not as charming as Nelson thinks, though, in fact, yes, Denmark is lovely. We have to wait until the last ten minutes to get to the familiar recipe of amusing absurdity and kooky closure that truly satisfies, but that's the way the cookie crumbles. Now on to S17--let's see of the Barnaby's are still living the sweet life with their beautiful baby Betty! 

S16E4, The Flying Club

S16E4, The Flying Club: It's a bird, it's a plane--no, it's a dead man falling from the sky? That's a first for Midsomer (right?). If you enjoy stunt pilots and their airplanes, this one's for you; if not, then it's a snooze. You'll wish you were on vacation with Sarah. 

Now, viewers traveling Midsomer usually do take the highway to the danger zone, but this flight sat on the runway way too long, had way too many lay overs, little on board entertainment, and not a blip of needed turbulence--only to reveal a dull destination, a near crash landing, I almost ditched before the end.

Perhaps I'm being unruly here. There's the bit about Kate's parents, which is a decent enough detour, establishing a bit of historical background for the pathologist. Still,

June Whitfield was the only bright spot on an otherwise dreary trip to the landing. Oh, but, yes, watching Sykes get the first class treatment is one for the scrapbook. In the end, however, the plot's itinerary may have been exciting on paper, but the route taken was like a bad trip. But as this one departs, I'll keep my hopes high for the next.

S16E3, Wild Harvest

S16E3, Wild Harvest: Elegant opening scene unfurls into a chaotic dog eat dog environment. A creepy midnight woods murder and you've got yourself a bloody mystery full of mushrooms and scenic green fields. Akin to Sherlock's Baskerville's Hound, the intriguing theme sizzles out quickly. Sarah is on maternity leave while Sykes is off his usual nosh--I'll take this side on the plate, yes, Chef! Hmm...the plot rests as a bore until well, the boar! Nelson and Dr. Wilding are here, but there's actually nothing wild about that. Oh, I miss Jones. Still, the plot thickens up and gets quite saucy. So, the beginning is not appetizing, but I'd take another serving of this episode as all the ingredients combine. 3 out of 5 stars! And it seems I've developed an excellent palate for murder since I guessed the secret recipe with 20 minutes left to spare--which did indeed leave a good taste in my mouth. Oh, and the final reveal was the icing on the cake! Ah, but I'm sure you'll be a satisfied customer now that my fun puns have eaten up a lot of your time!

Watch it on my blog (link in bio) #midsomermurders #murder #mystery @officialmidsomer #british #acorntv #itv #neildudgeon #fionadolman @fiona_dolman #benjones #detective #detectivebarnaby @_jasonhughes #blog #writer #crime #justice #midsomermurders @mrgwilymlee #tamzinmalleson #katewilding #charlienelson

S16E2, Let Us Prey

S16E2, Let Us Pray

A rainy night with delicate music inside a church starts the episode. A mysterious underground tunnel and ancient fresco add to the mystery. Next thing you know, a dead body arrives. Nelson is shocked at Wilding's utterly unkempt abode. Meanwhile, Barnaby is shocked at how many baby items are needed to own a baby! Several unique camera shots and a dark grey hue creates the atmosphere. The lovely village exteriors and quirky characters are nicely familiar, but the unique charm of the Tom and Joyce seasons is noticeably missing--maybe it's the loss of all the original actors, the most recent being Jones. Michael Jayston as Reverend Gould adds the much needed depth to the episode, but it's not enough to make an impact. And an hour in, it is all just flat boring. The true motive comes out of nowhere, and it should have been part of the plot in some way as it is the only interesting bit in the story. 

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S16E1: A Christmas Haunting

S16E1, A Christmas Haunting: Merry Christmas! Your present this year is a brand new partner for John, Sergeant Charlie Nelson. Barnaby sure misses Ben (who's now a Detective Inspector in Brighton) as we all do! The weather is cold and snowy, the mood is festive yet creepy, and both Sarah and John are  expecting...a baby! We still need time to see how the new duo of detectives works together. We see John making the introductions and sharing the customs with the new guy this time around. So far Nelson is casual (not wearing a sharp suit) and keen (commands attention with a booming clap). Kate helps welcome him with a drink and a room. The guest cast bores me: drab, unhappy couples and dysfunctional families, but the jolly Christmas decor and jingle bells are special enough. Still, the pace is terribly slow, the plot lacks pizzazz, and the writing is devoid of humor. The reveal at the end is just as disappointing, but is saved by a heartfelt Christmas message from our old pal Jones. Watch it on my blog (link in bio) #midsomermurders #murder #mystery @officialmidsomer #british #acorntv #itv #neildudgeon #fionadolman @fiona_dolman #benjones #detective #detectivebarnaby @_jasonhughes #blog #writer #crime #justice #midsomermurders

S16E6, Schooled in Murder

S15E6, Schooled in Murder: Well this is a fun start! A lovely sunny countryside, a snooty set of snobs at a prep school, veiled threats, a mysterious young stranger, and murder by giant cheese wheel--whoa! Not to mention--It's the Barnaby's 15th Anniversary and sweet Sykes is suffering from a secret accident (John's fault?). We get to know all the potential suspects and motives at a steady pace. Then another cheese centered murder weapon slices into the plot amidst the breezy leaves of the trees and sprawling lawn of the rich, well who in the world is the killer? Oh, and DO NOT look at the 2nd victim: "maggots with a message" -- Oh the horror, it better be worth the inclusion. The next murder is ugly too, quick at least. Who knew that cheese making was such a brutal business? Is this the highest Midsomer body count, ever? And cups of tea too, by golly, a lot of those! An overall entertaining and nicely done final episode to season 15. And oh goodness me, this is the last episode of our dear Ben Jones (but for his next "final" episode in S19). Funny that his first case with John is centered at a school and here too. Unlike Troy, Tom, and George, he does not get an official good-bye scene, perhaps because Jason Hughes' departure wasn't certain. Good-bye, Ben! It will not be the same without you. Truly, the end of an original Midsomer era. Watch it on my blog (link in bio) #midsomermurders #murder #mystery @officialmidsomer #british #acorntv #itv #neildudgeon #fionadolman @fiona_dolman #benjones #detective #detectivebarnaby @_jasonhughes #blog #writer #crime #justice #midsomermurders

S15E5, The Sicilian Defence

S15E5, The Sicilian Defence: Captivating opening scene, the mystery starts immediately. Beautifully shot, includes lighthearted Barnaby fam bits, but could have gone without the ear piercing screaming from the girl at hospital, yikes. Lovely scenery and buildings, the cast of characters, none very endearing. A dead cat will disturb some. With half an hour left, the pace picks up after my waning interest. And boy, does it get all twisty and turny! And even through the enjoyable absurdity, it manages to be surprisingly touching thanks to DCI John Barnaby's psychology skills! I also noticed his variety of facial expressions conveying different thoughts which reminded me of dear old Tom! Watch the first 30, skip the next, then view the last, and you've got an entertaining hour here! In short, this is a MEMORABLE episode, which is apropos considering the theme of it. (The Sicilian Defence is a chess opening that begins with the following moves: 1. e4 c5). 

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S15E4(3), Written in the Stars

S15E4 Written in the Stars (It may be E3, actually): a sunny festival featuring astronomy, a shiny red sports car, a solar eclipse, a touch of mysticism, the thud of a weaopinized meteor, and a murder--the intro is all over the place. A beautiful ridge vie on a Bronze Age site, oh and well, it is cursed, of course. Later, we find out that John is a Scorpio, just like yours truly. The Scorpio "chases Orion, the hunter, the killer, across the night skies," hmm... sounds about right! I really don't care about the first murder until it seems that it might be related to a mysterious death from 15 years ago. The action is absent, lots of repetitive motive set-ups slowly stretch along like a sweaty yoga session. Will any of these dull, self-centered characters die already? And hey, I am of South Asian heritage, so I hope it's safe to criticize the choice of using the name Gagan for the lovely young lady's name? There are so many more pretty names that could've fit the bill! Ok, more yoga, more overprotective father, more people threatening each other, got it. OMG, will someone get murdered already?! Oh, yes okay, but why this guy?, hmm, don't care. Well, I can't wait for Kate Wilding's upcoming WILD birthday party--perhaps some action after all! And I'd love to meet Jones' Gran--he always talks about her. Anyway, what? The only likable character--murdered like that? That's unexpected--find the killer immediately! And no, no, no--Ben is "fantasizing" about Kate? Didn't want to know that. And as it turns out, didn't need to know much of anything for this episode. Did they even address the cold case from 15 years ago? A few nice bits, but overall, it did not work. Watch it on my blog if you're keen to know what I mean (link in bio) #midsomermurders #murder #mystery @officialmidsomer #british #acorntv #itv #neildudgeon #fionadolman @fiona_dolman #benjones #detective #detectivebarnaby @_jasonhughes #blog #writer #crime #justice #midsomermurders

S15E3, Death and the Divas

S15E3, "Death and the Divas" starts off with an intriguing blood sucking murder (or two), so you're hooked in from the get go. John and Sarah giddily attend a horror film festival with stars in their eyes, cute couple these two. Kate shows up as well--are we to discover she has a life outside her medical scrubs and possibly a personality outside of expert on decomposition? Ooh, it's raining at night, how atmospheric! American accents? Oh, dear me--hopefully they're the next victims! Ha! A pair of lovers in bed? Hopefully they're next! Pleasant scenery and eye-candy interiors keep me satisfied. A steady pace of motives fall around, until the 2nd murder itself drops--then a couple more motives add up, keeping me curious. The supporting guest cast acts very well (some familiar faces), but there are several scriptural raunchy bits--silly, though they match the old, vampy vibe of campy movies. Vampy campy! Still, an actual sex scene with sounds and all is jarring, but thankfully brief. Leads me to laughter, though, when Jones gets the wrong idea about Sarah being part. Although the ear piercing screaming is too much even in its suspenseful ending, it's another episode fit for a fun-filled Halloween night, or any day! 

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S15E2: Murder of Innocence

 

S15E2, Murder of Innocence

The opening scene has a modern, gritty edge, but still includes the pretty Midsomer building exteriors and scenery. It's suspenseful, it's a dark night, and murder happens immediately to hook you in. We get a flashback to 1994 and see Constable Ben Jones working an old case, interesting! A cool, crisp atmosphere; a cast of well-acted characters, and a funny "get-fit" sub-plot keeps the story balanced. A bunch of Brits shooting dead a bunch of birds might put some bits in a bunch. Oh, and then there's the bloody murders, but they're more on the tame side. Jones has another girlfriend, this time we see her face, but will we see it again? Probably not, Jones is still immature. Anyway, did we really need to see the officer taking a whiz in the woods? Nope, we really didn't. Well, let's forget that! An outlandish twist in the end picks up the pace to bring it all impossibly together in the end. Entertaining enough, thanks to the BF Ben Jones angle!

S15E1: The Dark Rider

S15E1, The Dark Rider: I really like the opening scene, full of booming thunder, an old castle at night, and a mysterious headless horseman! It's like Halloween in the Summer (watching this in late June)! Spooky, but not seriously sinister. The first episode of season 15 has John (still jolly), Sarah (still academic), Sykes (still cute), Ben (still skeptical) and Kate (still morbid). The guest cast is a family of snooty, unlikable, rich jerks, with a couple of exceptions. Particularly annoying are Diana and Sasha (do women really strut like that? How ridiculous). Gorgeous scenery, pretty interiors, ancient family fueds, horses, and a pair of identical twins--tra la! Sarah and her historical society are involved as well. The plot gallops along at a steady pace, keeps me wondering. The conclusion might be a tad too unlikely for some, too obvious for others, but for me, good enough. 

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S14E8, A Rare Bird

S14E8: Let's Tweet

Starts off quant with lovely scenery, some curious conflict, and light-hearted exchange between the Barnabys. We've got birds, ballet, and murder--its all right by me! Guest actors are convincing, several characters are also likable and interesting. Love the sweet sounds and scenes of nature, and of course the usual village building exteriors and interiors. Dr. Kate Wilding, here on her 4th episode, is still as seemingly cold as her mortuary. She'll need time to thaw out her character, totally natural.

The plot slows down half an hour in, but we see the detectives enjoy an ice cream cone, so hey! An hour in and we get our 2nd murder and a couple of possible motives. I notice that whenever Jones has a theory about the murder, Barnaby doesn't try to see it, usually replying, "Maybe, maybe not," which does start to irk me. Not very encouraging leadership here. Anyway, the house full of stuffed dead animals is indeed creepy. And we see John cooking a tasty meal (guess he's been practicing) while we discover Ben is getting some action elsewhere. And like many times before, even since Season 1, the DCI's wife provides the detail that clicks in the final piece of the puzzle. Overall, the atmospheric quality of the episode let's me forgive its flaws (such as its ending). A good one!

S14E7, A Sacred Trust

S14E7: Get Me to a Nunnery!

A vulgar opening scene as we see 2 teens having sex in the dirt (they will no doubt regret their poor choices as much as we regret having to witness them). A few more idiots take to doing idiot things, and there's our unfortunate set-up. But moving on to the Nunnery adds some charm to the atmosphere, thankfully. A beautiful, peaceful sanctuary with dignified characters-- more of this, please. Sister Catherine is a lovely character as are the other nuns, portrayed with a genuine respect. Here we learn that Kate, just like John, is a proud Atheist. It seems weird to have 2 main characters be openly anti-God. I mean, we know from the past that Tom and Ben don't fancy church on Sundays, but they at least left it ambiguous and weren't too openly smug about it. An Atheist can be just as self-righteous as any religious person, and here's a fine example. Anyhow, we see Mrs. Barnaby in her element, putting a bunch of school bullies in their place. There's still no believable suspect half way in, which I actually enjoy, since it adds to the mystery of it all. And oh what a tangled web we weave! Except for the first crass minute of the episode, I love it all! Almost perfect. 

S14E6, The Night of the Stag

 

S14E6: What's the Buzz About?

The opening scene of the (now infamous) episode is intriguing, a man being chased in the darkness of the night. We've got a cider festival and craggily drunken characters, balloons, flower crowns, and local honey. But wait--it's not just any old festival, it's a literal puke fest. Guest actors are convincing, except maybe Greg Hicks as Rev. Norman Grigor--he is a tad too melodramatic in portraying his zealous character. On the other hand, Bernard Lloyd was a delight to watch as Byron Street. I personally did not appreciate the Barnaby's smug attitude about "working in the orchard" as being a waste of life and brain, but that's the sort of cultural superiority our "educated" society accepts without question.

Anyway, the first half is interesting enough, and things start getting sinister around the 40 minute mark--a "creepy old man" vibe sets itself up. DCI Barnaby is still seeming capable, after all, he understands "lateral thinking," as our Tom used to say. The character of Rev. Conrad Walker is a good representative of what a man of God should be: devout and reasonable.

What once was a fertility refresher/ritual (hey, the bees do it too) has become corrupted by the evils of alcohol and an abusive father AKA the psychotic Queen Bee rapist of Midsomer Abbas (played too convincingly by Warren Clarke) and his fellow drunken snakes. And people wonder why I don't drink. Very dark indeed as it's not just one evildoer, but the violent mob mentality that justice is up against. But there have been much darker episodes such as the recent "Echoes of the Dead." And for the viewers saying the rape aspect was ignored: Why did Rev. Walker get killed? He tried to stop it happening. Why did Jones and Barnaby rush to the village? They tried to stop it happening. Who stopped it happening? Barnaby and Jones. The point is that justice is served, the bad guys don't get their way, but put away to rot.

S14E5, The Sleeper Under the Hill

 

S14E5: A Snooze on the Couch

There's an intriguing opening scene with an ancient history vibe (including a gruesome murder scene, so turn away). Here we meet Dr. Kate Wilding, the new resident pathologist--seems straightforward and cold, which we should expect from a coroner. Funny bits throughout (Jones kicking in a door that is already open, poor lad, haha). Lovely crisp atmosphere and the classic English scenery here. Squabbling over land, pub conversations, and county maps included. A late night chase among historic ruins--yes, please! Guest acting is very convincing, though most characters were extremely unpleasant. DCI John is confident and curious. Our modern career woman Sarah rarely has time to cook a full meal, in stark contrast to Joyce (and as we know, that's probably a good thing, haha!) and her husband is completely daft in the kitchen. The plot got quite slow, I felt sleepy, and I must have missed a few irrelevant details. Disgusting portrayal of the murders, not viewable in the slightest bit. This is just my peasant opinion and reflects nothing on the proper work put into creating this episode.

S14E4, The Oblong Murders

 

S14E4: Promising

A memorable opening scene, an immediate murder under the cover of night and an opera song. Then we switch to the congenial Sykes the dog taking a scenic walk in the scenic village. This is Dr. Bullard's swan song and as such, he plays out his most prominent Midsomer role yet: brother to the town's dog whisperer. Actually he's on a mission to find a missing girl. I wish he could've played more prominenty in every episode. This one includes a cast of ecentric characters, all a bit wacky amid a setting of a self-improvement foundation, AKA a silly cult. DCI Barnaby has taken command and he is settling into the role. The new age clap trap is reminiscent of an early episode in the early seasons, except this time, Jones participating undercover makes it easier to sit through. Lovely Autumn atmosphere and manicured gardens move the viewing experience along nicely. Some subtle comic relief (poor Jones caught up in cringe-flirty "Free Love') helps as well. And actually it was actually more like poor Jones, being sexually harassed, "I won't take no for an answer tonight." And yes, Jason Hughes uncovers his rear end. That display and the plot was not very interesting to me, but still, the mystery was solved, and justice dished out. Farewell to our beloved Dr. George Bullard, taking a page from Tom's book, and retiring peacefully to fish his days away on holiday in Ireland. Loved his last words to John: "Tom was a tough act to follow. You're getting there." And rest in peace Barry Jackson, who died only two years later.

1938 - 2013

S14E3, Echoes of the Dead

 

S14E3: Echoes of the Dead

The opening scene is both quaint countryside and village murder. Intriguing (and the reason many of us watch the show). Wonderfully acted and directed. And of course the killer is demented and his motive insane, but the atmosphere is just like the original few episodes of Season 1, echoes of the past, indeed. The murders are definitely gruesome, and that I can't justify as entertainment, but, nevertheless, I watch to see the bad guy get caught and the victims get some earthly justice. And that's what our detectives do--solve the mystery and capture the evil one! Hell was created for demons like him. WARNING: Do not look directly at any dead bodies ever on this show, especially the 2nd one here (it was the absolute WORST of the series)! And references to deviant sexual toys will slap the innocence out of anyone, (why did Jones have to say it, though? Well, better than Barnaby saying it). Poor George, these terrible murders are getting to him. He may want to retire soon. Some brief nudity in this one. The ending had my full attention, very gripping, and nice gesture at the end with an obviously upset Barnaby taking some time to wipe away a bit of the horror. ANYWAY, the exterior of the Barnaby's home is so lovely, just like all of the Barnaby homes have been, and watching the couple discuss historical killings over dinner remind me of Tom and Joyce.

S14E2, Dark Secrets

S14E2: TMI

With a compelling opening scene, the mystery starts strong. Sarah arrives and well, here she is, inviting everyone over for a visit. Several unlikable characters are immediately introduced, though Jeff Rawle does an entertaining job as the harmless and unfairly bullied Dawkins. And clearly Mr. Bingham is in old man make up and using a fake old man voice--Oh, wait, he wasn't? Fooled me! Anyway, Jones is so awfully irritable these days, no wonder he hasn't found the "right one." Anyhow, the topic of (SPOILER) incest harkens back to the very first creepy use of the topic in S1E1, which is just...creepy.

S14E1, Death in the Slow Lane

S14E1: A New Chapter

We all know Jones should be in charge now, but since it'd be virtually impossible to change his name to "Barnaby," we're left with the OG's cousin, John. Still, it's nice that this point was mentioned in the episode. And our Gail has gone AWOL. John seems a tad aloof and worn thin already. But still, he's very sharp with the details, perhaps due to his fancy Psychology degree. He has a teacher wife and a dog, and is not naturally neighborly, except for the quick wit that got him accepted with the locals at the pub. Now then, if the guest actors were meant to come across as shallow, dull, and utterly unlikable, well, they succeeded. Boring. I was hoping they'd all be killed immediately. DCI John, being knocked out and strung up in a barn, and a proud Atheist even on the verge of death, not a good first impression for me. Did we ever see our Tom in such an undignified position? Well, we still have Jones, Bullard, and the lovely scenery, so let's turn the page.

Tom? They remembered Tom and Joyce !

Ta! 

Interviews and Video of John Nettles

 

John Nettles Interview | Part 1 and Part 2 | SVT/NRK/Skavlan 2014

Midsomer Murders - How it all Began 2014

Midsomer Murders | John Nettles Takes the Best of British Quiz | BritBox 2018

Patron John Nettles Sends a Message of Support 2020

Midsomer Murders 20th Anniversary Special (from 2019)

Oy! NO ONE can compare to the way John Nettles speaks, his booming voice and enunciation. Unparalleled. He could win an Oscar for reading a list of groceries. I still have yet to see this, I'll need to put it on my to do list. See the trailer below, from ACORN TV. 

"Presented by John Nettles, the original DCI Barnaby, this anniversary special features stars past and present discussing the peculiar quirks of the delightful yet deadly county. Hear stories from the set and revisit the show's most memorable moments, from famous guest stars to fatal festivals, with appearances by Neil Dudgeon, Daniel Casey, Jane Wymark, Jason Hughes, Nick Hendrix, and more."

The End of an Era: Farewell to the Original Barnaby Fam

Now that I've had time to process my grief over saying goodbye to my parasocial relationship with the original Barnaby family, I'll be posting more often. I found this interesting website that includes interviews with John Nettles and Joyce Barnaby as they touch on their thoughts and feelings about leaving the show. Check it out here:

FAREWELL

S13E8, Fit For Murder

Well, I'm just going to dive into it (SPOILERS). Apparently, ITV, which showcases Midsomer Murders, cut out the final scene in which Tom tells everyone that he is going to retire. When I watched the last episode of S13 on Netflix years ago, he announced it to Jones, George, and Gail, as Joyce, Cully, and John looked on. They were all stunned and saddened.  I wish I could have seen that bit again! In it, all the guests leave, and Joyce remarks, "Well, this feels weird." And then Cully asks, "So, Dad, what now?," and he says, "I'm going to have my cake and eat it." A nice farewell to the characters who we've grown to love in the past 13 seasons. This episode's mystery is a messy bore (another dispute about right of way!), but we get the backstory on Tom and the possible reason he decides to call it quits upon reaching his birthday. Long ago, Tom's father had invited him to go fishing. Tom was still annoyed after having an argument with his father, and instead, just went out with Joyce. Well, his father died right there with the fishing rod in his hand. Tom has felt guilty ever since and had always worried that he would die on the same birthday that his father died on. Joyce had noticed Tom acting strange and had taken him to de-stress at a weekend spa. Of course, bodies started piling up, with Joyce finding the first body (which actually might explain if she told Tom to call it quits, ha! But she was the ever steady rock). Jones tried his hand at being the lead officer in charge, and though he was willing, he wasn't quite ready (which might explain why he doesn't replace Tom as the DCI next season). Speaking of next season, I'm not sure when I'll start it, so this is my mini-retirement too. I'll come back occasionally, taking a peak at Jones' and George's episodes and such, but not on a regular basis. It's been so fun watching and writing and sharing, thank you to all who've joined me thus far. I'm actually really more dreadfully sad than I thought I'd be. I didn't realize I'd be emotional and crying, I can't even get through posting all the photos and making all the memes. These actors and writers really brought these characters to life. (And I am a bit nuts too).

Ta

xoxo

S13E7, Not In My Backyard

S13E7, "Not in my Backyard," starts off rather drab, picks up some interest as the first murder happens within 10 minutes, falls again into a slow gallop, increases its intrigue an hour in, then again drifts off to sleep by the ending. I mean, how many heated council meetings inside ugly windowless rooms with loud speeches about the past vs. progress can we sit through? However, the episode is indeed remarkable due to its uniquely disturbing deaths by sliding door and concrete burial in car. There were two blokes who had me confused since they looked a bit similar and I had no interest in either. The character of Fiona Conway  brought some life and light into the show, which is something usually exhibited by the lovely Joyce, who sadly features but briefly (although Joyce is much less sassy than Fiona). We must endure the viewing of too much skin, a lady with a terrible hairstyle in a stylish bra, and again, cheating husband(s). Ah, I do miss the older seasons. Remember the one when Cully nearly gets killed by an old school mate? Yes, those were the days. But all good things must come to end, and that's where we'll end up next time, with the last episode of season 13. 

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