Foyle’s War isn’t a show that I’ve watched
regularly – Sherlock is the only
Masterpiece Mystery series I always make sure to catch – but I seek out the odd
episode from time to time, usually because of its excellent collection of guest
stars. James McAvoy, David Tennant, and
Amanda Root are a few of the actors who’ve appeared on the program throughout
the year.
Christopher
Foyle is a British detective working during World War II. His cases often deal with the war and other
issues of the day. In “A War of Nerves,”
Foyle is focused on a local factory, where a number of supplies have
disappeared – a serious concern in times of strict rationing. However, his superior is insistent that the
missing supplies are small potatoes next to the appearance of a prominent labor
organizer from London, and dictates that Foyle should be investigating this “bolshie”
instead.
PC
plays Raymond Carter, said bolshie.
While it’s true that he’s a Communist who supports unions and closer
U.K.-Russia relations, he doesn’t raise any immediate red flags for Foyle, who
feels the investigation is a waste of time.
Foyle spends most of the episode doing the bare minimum to appease his
boss while at the same time seeing to more pressing matters.
PC’s
performance of Carter is ably done, assisted by some fine writing. Carter is articulate, educated, and
passionate, a man who cares deeply about his cause. He’s also a suspicious man, one who’s grown
weary of people’s anti-leftist attitudes.
Though Foyle repeatedly states that he doesn’t feel Carter is a threat,
Carter has his back up immediately, accusing Foyle of stepping on his rights.
Each
time I see an episode of Foyle’s War,
I’m reminded of how much I enjoy Sam, Foyle’s driver. She definitely has a talent for creating
minor disasters, but what she lacks in competence, she makes up for in
enthusiasm and curiosity. A very
endearing character.
Accent Watch
RP –
not bad at all.
Recommend?
In
General
– Maybe. The mystery here is decent, and
the character work is very well done.
Nice, finely-drawn period piece.
PC-wise – Don’t put it at
the top of your list, but you might find it worth checking out. Good work by PC.
Warnings
Some
violence, plus drinking and smoking.
Also, dark themes dealing with the war.
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