Last week, I checked out the first episode of Masterpiece Theater’s Foyle’s War. Ten minutes into the show, I was hooked, determined to watch every episode. I returned the first episode to the library yesterday and checked out the next three.
The woman at the circulation desk waved the DVD case in the air. “Aren’t these wonderful? We’re in the middle of season three.” Then she laughed. “Anybody who checks out one of these ends up watching the whole series.”
Last night I watched the second episode, entranced. What makes the series so good? Is it Michael Kitchen as Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle? His characterization of the detective who’s request to enlist during WWII has been denied is masterful, understated, poignant. The writers weave war news with Foyle’s work in war-weary England subtly and beautifully. They slowly build the life stories of the supporting actors into their relationship with Foyle in a way that brings me back for more. And the meticulous period costuming and the beautiful English countryside are a feast for the eyes.
If you like English mysteries, World War II and well-written, well-acted entertainment, this series is for you. Check this link for more information about the series and the order of the episodes. You’ll want to watch them in order to see the characters grow and change. Happy watching, and tell me what you think of Foyle’s War.
