Thursday, November 28, 2013

Foyle’s War: Series 3, Episode 4 – “A War of Nerves” (2004)

 
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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