Despite getting through reviewing each episode of 'Midsomer Murders' in order of airing, somehow (most likely tiredness or lack of concentration) "Beyond the Grave" was omitted.
"Beyond the Grave" is not a favourite of mine. The storytelling isn't perfect. Sometimes there is too much going on, a lot of events and twists and a lot of characters and it did feel slightly cluttered. Things do get convoluted at times, especially in the latter half.
However, there is a lot to like, any fan of 'Midsomer Murders' will love that what is so great about the show is evident in "Beyond the Grave". The production values are top notch, with to die for scenery, the idyllic look of it contrasting very well with the story's darkness, 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 highlight of the script is the humour, which is deliciously wry and hugely entertaining, and Barnaby and Troy's chemistry is a joy.
John Nettles cannot be faulted as Barnaby, nor Daniel Casey, their spirited chemistry an enormous part of the show's charm. Jane Wymark is a good presence and her chemistry with Nettles shows a husband and wife in a loving marriage but due to his job getting in the way it's not always a perfect one. The supporting cast are strong.
Meanwhile, the script is smart and thought-provoking with some nice humour, a suitable dark grimness, a suitably spooky atmosphere and good characters. The story is compelling, with the strange but very spooky atmosphere being the most striking, the twists and turns nice enough.
Overall, a good episode if not a favourite, suffers somewhat from trying to do too much. 8/10 Bethany Cox