Norma is quite the head of the village ladies' circle, organising all the local events, capable of giving out instructions with ease. Her sister Emily is quite the reverse, a very laid back character, Norma deems her husband Bob a lazy waster. There is a resentment as Norma inherited a huge estate, Emily nothing, just the use of the lodge. Weeks later Emily disappears, unseen for over three weeks. Norma is convinced Bob's killed Emily, she has him followed, and tracks a place in the forest where he's buried something.
Where do you even begin to comment on the quality of acting talent on display in this episode, the list is endless, Frances Tomelty play the role of Norma with great vigour, lots of energy goes into it. Anthony Valentine is his usually brilliant self, while Patsy Byrne and Diana King (two fabulous comedy actresses) make a wonderfully humorous double act.
It's a hugely clever story, it's beautifully dark and sinister, hidden under lush lawns, beautiful Mason's Ironstone china and fancy hats.
Bar a few dodgy episodes Series 5 is very very strong, I'd say The Absence of Emily is above average, not quite the best but it's still a very good standard. 7/10
Where do you even begin to comment on the quality of acting talent on display in this episode, the list is endless, Frances Tomelty play the role of Norma with great vigour, lots of energy goes into it. Anthony Valentine is his usually brilliant self, while Patsy Byrne and Diana King (two fabulous comedy actresses) make a wonderfully humorous double act.
It's a hugely clever story, it's beautifully dark and sinister, hidden under lush lawns, beautiful Mason's Ironstone china and fancy hats.
Bar a few dodgy episodes Series 5 is very very strong, I'd say The Absence of Emily is above average, not quite the best but it's still a very good standard. 7/10