Without spoiling anything, I would just like to say that something important and with *significant* legal implications happens regarding the drama teacher, and there is no conclusion to it. It's just forgotten about. It's a major subplot that goes nowhere. That was surprising and unsatisfying.
20 Reviews
really good
blanche-227 September 2013
I just learned that there was a year gap between the first episode of this series and the second, which is "Written in Blood." This episode begins with a young boy named Liam shooting and killing his father. This took place in Ireland in 1955.
Cut to the present day, and the Midsomer Worthy Writer's Circle is discussing whom they should invite to speak at their next meeting. Someone suggests Max Jennings (John Shrapnel), who has written a best-seller.
The chairman of the Circle, Gerald Hadleigh (Robert Swann) is vehemently opposed to this, but he's outvoted. When Jennings gets the invitation, he isn't interested until he notices that Hadleigh is a member of the group. He decides to speak.
On the night of the meeting, Gerald takes his friend Amy (Joanna David) aside and begs her to make sure that he and Jennings aren't left alone. Amy actually leaves that evening with Jennings and her sister-in-law Honoria (Anna Massey), but then he says he forgot his gloves and has to return. Amy wants to return with him, but the domineering Honoria won't allow it, insisting that they leave.
The next day, Hadleigh is found naked and dead, beaten with a candlestick. DCI Tom Barnaby (John Nettles) and Sgt. Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey) take over, but they are frustrated by the lack of knowledge anyone seems to have about Hadleigh. They believe that Jennings can give them the answers they need. He is finally located, but he's dead, too, from poisoning.
Like many if not all Midsomer Murders, the solution to the murders can be found in the past and its influence on present events. In this case, the solutions to the murders are not the same, which make them all the more interesting.
Excellent, with Cully's kitten making Barnaby sneeze throughout the episode.
Cut to the present day, and the Midsomer Worthy Writer's Circle is discussing whom they should invite to speak at their next meeting. Someone suggests Max Jennings (John Shrapnel), who has written a best-seller.
The chairman of the Circle, Gerald Hadleigh (Robert Swann) is vehemently opposed to this, but he's outvoted. When Jennings gets the invitation, he isn't interested until he notices that Hadleigh is a member of the group. He decides to speak.
On the night of the meeting, Gerald takes his friend Amy (Joanna David) aside and begs her to make sure that he and Jennings aren't left alone. Amy actually leaves that evening with Jennings and her sister-in-law Honoria (Anna Massey), but then he says he forgot his gloves and has to return. Amy wants to return with him, but the domineering Honoria won't allow it, insisting that they leave.
The next day, Hadleigh is found naked and dead, beaten with a candlestick. DCI Tom Barnaby (John Nettles) and Sgt. Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey) take over, but they are frustrated by the lack of knowledge anyone seems to have about Hadleigh. They believe that Jennings can give them the answers they need. He is finally located, but he's dead, too, from poisoning.
Like many if not all Midsomer Murders, the solution to the murders can be found in the past and its influence on present events. In this case, the solutions to the murders are not the same, which make them all the more interesting.
Excellent, with Cully's kitten making Barnaby sneeze throughout the episode.
Bizarre ending
martin-intercultural8 March 2019
The story was nicely paced and realistically acted, with some unexpected twists thrown in. The exteriors were still finely English but not as sugary as in the opening episode, which was reassuring. Then for some reason, five minutes before the end, it all descended into a manic hodgepodge of clichés. As if the creators decided to sprint through 30 famous horror films in 300 seconds. Throwing at us blatant chunks of Psycho, Rosemary's Baby and every 70s slasher flick in existence. If Midsomer was meant to be a nuanced character study of English repression, as I assumed it to be, then the ending to this particular tale manifests some odd choices.
As of 2015, this is still the best Midsomer episode
Sleepin_Dragon21 August 2015
I am a true Midsomer Murders addict, and even when they're bad (Blood on the Saddle) i'll still watch and semi enjoy. I've seen them all a few times, but this is still the best of the lot.
It's so cleverly crafted, and built up, each character is given a personality, they are well drawn and beautifully acted, there isn't one weak link in the chain.
The writer's circle works so well, the stories and writing fits each character, it is so believable.
The brilliance of writer Caroline Graham, and the subsequent screenplay by Anthony Horowitz is never better realised then Written in Blood. It's complicated yet straightforward, intricate yet easy to follow.
Normally the main focus is of course Barnaby, the enigmatic John Nettles frequently steals the show, not here though, the characters and guest cast are so good, that the detectives are secondary.
The entire cast work gloriously with one another, firstly, Una Stubbs, I have never seen her play a role like this one, she adds a touch of humour to this macabre little tale, 'Swimming in her jewels.'
Bouncing Barbara, not much to say really, she caused plenty of amusement for Troy, unlike his trip to the Gay club, so funny.
The ending is truly spectacular, tense and rather terrifying, the acting is incredible, and the solution is phenomenally macabre. All plaudits go to Anna Massey and Joanna David.
It's a wonderful episode, enjoyable from start to finish, 10/10, Brilliant.
It's so cleverly crafted, and built up, each character is given a personality, they are well drawn and beautifully acted, there isn't one weak link in the chain.
The writer's circle works so well, the stories and writing fits each character, it is so believable.
The brilliance of writer Caroline Graham, and the subsequent screenplay by Anthony Horowitz is never better realised then Written in Blood. It's complicated yet straightforward, intricate yet easy to follow.
Normally the main focus is of course Barnaby, the enigmatic John Nettles frequently steals the show, not here though, the characters and guest cast are so good, that the detectives are secondary.
The entire cast work gloriously with one another, firstly, Una Stubbs, I have never seen her play a role like this one, she adds a touch of humour to this macabre little tale, 'Swimming in her jewels.'
Bouncing Barbara, not much to say really, she caused plenty of amusement for Troy, unlike his trip to the Gay club, so funny.
The ending is truly spectacular, tense and rather terrifying, the acting is incredible, and the solution is phenomenally macabre. All plaudits go to Anna Massey and Joanna David.
It's a wonderful episode, enjoyable from start to finish, 10/10, Brilliant.
I Was Astonished!
Hitchcoc30 January 2016
After watching the first episode of this series and being impressed with it, I thought that it would drop off. As it turns out, this episode was as good as any television I've seen. It involves a writer's group that invites a successful novelist to speak to them. They are an odd bunch, either treating him with antagonism or aloofness. Some are downright rude. One of the men who had asked that they not invite this guy has his head bashed in sometime after the meeting. It turns out that he had had a relationship with this writer. What follows are a group of fascinating figures who interact, each with their own mystery story traits, leading to one of the most unsettling conclusions I've seen. The two investigators have to fight duplicity among all these people. Also, the writer has a secret. There are several subplots that eventually align. I love being manipulated by clever plots and twists that pull the rug from under me, and this one did that. I am so excited that there are over a hundred of these episodes to pick from. I know they can't all live up to this one, but there is excellent chemistry.
"Tense and well crafted mystery with horrific overtones."
jamesraeburn200330 January 2006
Warning: Spoilers
The Midsomer Worthy writers circle invites top selling author Max Jennings (John Shrapnel) to address their annual meeting. However, their chairman, the reclusive Gerald Hadleigh (Robert Swann) is very unhappy about the idea but refuses to explain why. On the night of the meeting there is clearly tension between the two men, but none of the members were prepared for the horror that was about to follow the next day when Hadleigh is discovered battered to death in his bedroom. DCI Barnaby and Sgt Troy realise that this case won't be easy because as Hadleigh was a recluse it is extremely difficult to find out anything about him. And all inquiries into his past draw a blank as he has no insurance number and the civil service whom he claimed to have worked for have never heard of him. Meanwhile, Max Jennings has disappeared and the questioning of the writers circle members proves little. These include the tyrannical Honoria Lyddiard (Anna Massey) and her sister-in-law Amy (Joanna David) but they can both vouch for the fact that they never left home at the time of the murder. A more likely suspect is smug schoolteacher Brian Clapper (David Troughton), the club's secretary, whom clearly lied about his whereabouts that night but his wife is covering up for him and there's no evidence of any friction between him and the murdered man. The case becomes even more complicated when Jennings finally turns up poisoned in his seaside home and both his alcoholic wife Selina (Una Stubbs) and his young secretary clearly know more than they are letting on.
Written In Blood (originally aired in March 1998) was the first in the series made to follow up the success of the pilot episode, The Killings At Badger's Drift (1997). Producers Betty Willingale and Brian True May re teamed both writer Anthony Horowitz and director Jeremy Silberston and assembled a marvelous supporting cast for this film including Anna Massey whose credits include appearances in such series as The Mayor Of Casterbridge and Inspector Morse. In the cinema she appeared in Michael Powell's horror masterpiece Peeping Tom (1960) and Alfred Hitchcock's excellent thriller Frenzy (1972). Una Stubbs was famous as Alf Garnett's daughter Rita in Till Death Us Do Part and has made notable guest appearances in such shows as Fawlty Towers and Heartbeat among others.
Written In Blood emerges as a tense and well crafted mystery with horrific overtones such as the killer (I won't give it away) chasing after a victim wielding a kitchen knife through an old Gothic house with thunder and lightning going on outside, which coincides with the discovery of a decaying corpse in a bedroom. These are clearly reminiscent of Psycho but they add to the film's impact without seeming like a cheap rip-off. The acting is fine all round with Massey and Stubbs of exceptional note whilst Robert Swann deserves praise as Gerald Hadleigh adding just the right touch of mysteriousness to the character. John Nettles and Daniel Casey have now firmly established themselves in the roles of Barnaby and Troy and they offer solid and charming performances. Director Jeremy Silberston who helmed The Killing's At Badger's Drift once again does excellent work as does screenwriter Anthony Horowitz who also adapted The Killings At Badger's Drift for television.
Written In Blood (originally aired in March 1998) was the first in the series made to follow up the success of the pilot episode, The Killings At Badger's Drift (1997). Producers Betty Willingale and Brian True May re teamed both writer Anthony Horowitz and director Jeremy Silberston and assembled a marvelous supporting cast for this film including Anna Massey whose credits include appearances in such series as The Mayor Of Casterbridge and Inspector Morse. In the cinema she appeared in Michael Powell's horror masterpiece Peeping Tom (1960) and Alfred Hitchcock's excellent thriller Frenzy (1972). Una Stubbs was famous as Alf Garnett's daughter Rita in Till Death Us Do Part and has made notable guest appearances in such shows as Fawlty Towers and Heartbeat among others.
Written In Blood emerges as a tense and well crafted mystery with horrific overtones such as the killer (I won't give it away) chasing after a victim wielding a kitchen knife through an old Gothic house with thunder and lightning going on outside, which coincides with the discovery of a decaying corpse in a bedroom. These are clearly reminiscent of Psycho but they add to the film's impact without seeming like a cheap rip-off. The acting is fine all round with Massey and Stubbs of exceptional note whilst Robert Swann deserves praise as Gerald Hadleigh adding just the right touch of mysteriousness to the character. John Nettles and Daniel Casey have now firmly established themselves in the roles of Barnaby and Troy and they offer solid and charming performances. Director Jeremy Silberston who helmed The Killing's At Badger's Drift once again does excellent work as does screenwriter Anthony Horowitz who also adapted The Killings At Badger's Drift for television.
18 years later, still a classic
TheLittleSongbird27 November 2016
When in its prime, 'Midsomer Murders' was one of my favourites. Still tune into it now, but it has not been the same since John Nettles left and Neil Dudgeon took over.
After starting off brilliantly with "The Killings at Badgers Drift", 'Midsomer Murders' continues its classic standard with another one of its finest episodes "Written in Blood", an episode so good that it beggars belief that it was only the second episode. John Nettles is superb as Barnaby, giving the role humour, intelligence and methodical thoughtfulness. Daniel Casey is a great contrasting partner as Troy, the two work wonders together. As does Jane Wymark in another strong characterisation.
Supporting them all the way are the supporting cast, with Anna Massey and Una Stubbs being particularly exceptional, with Joanna David, David Troughton, John Shrapnel and especially Robert Swann not being close behind.
Once again, "Written in Blood" is an incredibly well-made episode, beautifully photographed with gorgeously idyllic scenery that contrasts very well with the grimness of the story. The music fits perfectly, and the theme tune one of the most memorable and instantly recognisable of the genre. The script is smart, thought-provoking and suitably grim, with even some nice humour.
The story is incredibly compelling throughout, being as with the best 'Midsomer Murders' episodes complex, fun and disturbing. A standout scene is the climax, unforgettable in its terrifyingly macabre nature.
In conclusion, classic episode and one of the show's best. 10/10 Bethany Cox
After starting off brilliantly with "The Killings at Badgers Drift", 'Midsomer Murders' continues its classic standard with another one of its finest episodes "Written in Blood", an episode so good that it beggars belief that it was only the second episode. John Nettles is superb as Barnaby, giving the role humour, intelligence and methodical thoughtfulness. Daniel Casey is a great contrasting partner as Troy, the two work wonders together. As does Jane Wymark in another strong characterisation.
Supporting them all the way are the supporting cast, with Anna Massey and Una Stubbs being particularly exceptional, with Joanna David, David Troughton, John Shrapnel and especially Robert Swann not being close behind.
Once again, "Written in Blood" is an incredibly well-made episode, beautifully photographed with gorgeously idyllic scenery that contrasts very well with the grimness of the story. The music fits perfectly, and the theme tune one of the most memorable and instantly recognisable of the genre. The script is smart, thought-provoking and suitably grim, with even some nice humour.
The story is incredibly compelling throughout, being as with the best 'Midsomer Murders' episodes complex, fun and disturbing. A standout scene is the climax, unforgettable in its terrifyingly macabre nature.
In conclusion, classic episode and one of the show's best. 10/10 Bethany Cox
The best MM episode
Vassago_F12 July 2012
Warning: Spoilers
After 14 years of watching Midsomer Murders, "Written in Blood" emerges as the best episode of the entire series. It's always more difficult to create a murder story around a mentally driven killer rather then some casual reasons like money, blackmail or revenge. In this episode the killer's motive is well exposed in the end and completely understandable. Too often a mental maniac turns out to be a killer only because of his/her insanity which leaves a sour taste. Over here, despite the obvious mental issues, a real motive is there to be discovered and doesn't turn out to be a mere hoax. Also it's one of the most gruesome and dark episodes of the series, a real winner for all the murder story fans.
Another great Midsomer Murders mystery.
poolandrews4 June 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Midsomer Murders: Written in Blood starts in 'Darrow, Southern Ireland 1955' where a young boy named Liam (Jay Barrymore) blows his father (Murray Ewan) away with a double barrelled shotgun, it's an event which will have unforeseen consequences over 40 years later... Cut to 1998 & successful author Max Jennings (John Shrapnel) has been asked to speak at the Midsomer Worthy Writer's Circle monthly gathering, at first he isn't interested but he changes his mind when he notices the name Gerald Hadleigh (Robert Swann) as a member. Gerald is uneasy about Max's visit & confides in his friend Amy (Joanna David) that he is afraid & that Max should not be left alone with himself for any reason, the meeting appears to go well but the next morning Gerald is found dead, naked in his bedroom with his face & head smashed in with a candlestick. DCI Tom Barnaby (John Nettles) & Sgt. Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey) are on the case, their prime suspect is Max Jennings but when he turns up poisoned they have to look elsewhere...
Episode 2 from season 1, although it was broadcast almost a year later to the day after the original pilot The Killings at Badger's Drift, this Midsomer Murders mystery was directed by Jeremy Silberston & is another top mystery set in rural England. The script by Anthony Horowitz was based on the novel of the same name by Caroline Graham & like the best stories from this show it has that dark edge to it, it has a slightly disturbed outcome which involves child abuse, murder, transvestites, deceit, blackmail & taking family love just too far. I liked how the two murders in this episode seem linked but at the end turn out to be nothing of the sort & just a coincidence that two people who knew each other were killed in a short space of time while the script manages to convince you they are connected, there's not many suspects in this one as it's mostly story driven with the sinister events & motives surrounding the murders taking center stage rather than the script trying to implicate as many people for the killings as possible. As usual the clues are there so you'll have to pay attention to get the most out of it & totally understand it. There's a bit of humour in this episode too as Barnaby suffers from an allergic reaction to a cat his wife makes him sleep with. I suppose if you think about it long enough you could come up with a few holes here & there but for the most part it works very well & is a very satisfying mystery with a definite dark tone to it. I have to say though what happened to poor Brian Clapper because we never find out how things turn out for him & his 'problem' as he was dropped from the story just when he was becoming interesting.
This looks very good with plenty of English countryside on show as well as a few stately homes, this has a nice rural feel to it just as it should. I'm very glad to see they have dropped the opening credits & those awful watercolour style paintings used as backgrounds for them. Both murders happen off screen in this one. At almost two hours it takes it's time but it's engaging, absorbing & pretty intriguing. The acting is good from a good cast.
Written in Blood, you know there's an episode from season 6 called Painted in Blood & I was wondering if they make a new series perhaps they'll call one Crayoned in Blood or maybe even Sketched in Blood, is a great episode for all you armchair sleuth's out there. Definitely well worth a watch if murder mysteries are your thing.
Episode 2 from season 1, although it was broadcast almost a year later to the day after the original pilot The Killings at Badger's Drift, this Midsomer Murders mystery was directed by Jeremy Silberston & is another top mystery set in rural England. The script by Anthony Horowitz was based on the novel of the same name by Caroline Graham & like the best stories from this show it has that dark edge to it, it has a slightly disturbed outcome which involves child abuse, murder, transvestites, deceit, blackmail & taking family love just too far. I liked how the two murders in this episode seem linked but at the end turn out to be nothing of the sort & just a coincidence that two people who knew each other were killed in a short space of time while the script manages to convince you they are connected, there's not many suspects in this one as it's mostly story driven with the sinister events & motives surrounding the murders taking center stage rather than the script trying to implicate as many people for the killings as possible. As usual the clues are there so you'll have to pay attention to get the most out of it & totally understand it. There's a bit of humour in this episode too as Barnaby suffers from an allergic reaction to a cat his wife makes him sleep with. I suppose if you think about it long enough you could come up with a few holes here & there but for the most part it works very well & is a very satisfying mystery with a definite dark tone to it. I have to say though what happened to poor Brian Clapper because we never find out how things turn out for him & his 'problem' as he was dropped from the story just when he was becoming interesting.
This looks very good with plenty of English countryside on show as well as a few stately homes, this has a nice rural feel to it just as it should. I'm very glad to see they have dropped the opening credits & those awful watercolour style paintings used as backgrounds for them. Both murders happen off screen in this one. At almost two hours it takes it's time but it's engaging, absorbing & pretty intriguing. The acting is good from a good cast.
Written in Blood, you know there's an episode from season 6 called Painted in Blood & I was wondering if they make a new series perhaps they'll call one Crayoned in Blood or maybe even Sketched in Blood, is a great episode for all you armchair sleuth's out there. Definitely well worth a watch if murder mysteries are your thing.
Writing is a dangerous game
mirkobozic24 November 2018
"Midsomer Murders" is one of those tv whodunnits that were invented for Sunday evenings at home or lazy afternoons on a sofa. The narratives don't insult the viewers intelligence-the culprit(s) are never too obvious, with the backdrop of gorgeous English villages that almost exactly mirror the stereotype you'd think of if you're not a local. In small Midsomer towns, people don't die of boredom-we're shown that there is in indeed a social life-but of cruelty and crime. In this particular episode, there is a complex story of an amateur writers' club that hosts an acclaimed novelist, which unleashes a series of tragic deaths and uncovers deeply hidden family secrets. However prosaic this might seem, it's the characters that make it work so well, like the terrifying, gloomy Honoria. There's a feeling of unease in the writers' club from the very first scene, and the brilliant soundtrack underlines the darkness looming behind the gorgeous scenery. In this episode, the director takes the tension to the edge by blurring the line between love and obsession, which then turns into a bloodbath. It's quite convincing and it succeeds in keeping the viewer's interest until the very last scene. After an episode like this, weekend binge-watching is guaranteed.
Interesting premise, but a bit rushed and unsatisfying
lollipop158 April 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Written in Blood is the second instalment in the golden era of Midsomer Murders. I haven't yet read the book that this is derived from, so I am only basing my opinion on the TV episode.
The episode begins with a flashback to 1955 in Ireland. A young boy shoots and kills his father in his bed.
In present day Midsomer, we are introduced to the members of a writer's circle. They agree to invite a famous writer called Max Jennings to attend a meeting. However, one of the members, Gerald Hadleigh, appears apprehensive about this and asks one of the other members, Amy Lyddiard, to make sure that he is not left alone with Jennings. The next morning, Gerald is found naked and bludgeoned to death in his bedroom, and the clothes in his wardrobe appear to have been stolen... an investigation by Barnaby and Troy begins.
As usual, the music, scenery and the humour add a lot of charm and atmosphere to the show. The cast of characters were interesting and the script was decent.
All of the actors involved in this episode played their parts very well. It took me a while to realise that Amy was played by Joanna David, because she looked different to other TV shows that I have seen her in. I liked the character called Laura Hutton, played by Jane Booker. The actor who played Brian Clapper was creepy but charismatic. I also wanted to mention the cameo by Una Stubbs, who played Jennings's wife Selina. She did a great performance in such short screen time.
However, I thought that this episode had a lot of missed potential. The backstory involving Gerald and Amy's deceased husband, Ralph, could've been developed more. Gerald himself seemed an interesting personality and I wish we could've seen more of him. Maybe the writers had to omit a few things for timing reasons.
I was confused by the subplot involving the drama teacher, Brian Clapper. I don't understand why the (underage) student would sleep with Brian, knowing her brother was watching outside taking photos, then mock Brian the next day along with the rest of the drama class. It was unclear and quite weird actually. There wasn't much of a conclusion.
The other subplot of Barnaby being allergic to Cully's cat was sort of irritating, although there was a funny scene where he was having a sneezing fit and shouts "WHAT!" to a policeman who was trying to tell him something.
The killer was a bit obvious, even her unusual name and the old gothic house was a giveaway, but I didn't mind that too much.
I thought the dramatic ending was very rushed and a bit silly, more funny than frightening. The transition from the penultimate scene to the last scene (Barnaby in his garden) was sudden. I watched this episode on ITVX, so I wondered if something had been edited out.
Overall, I found story had an interesting premise but the ending was rushed and unsatisfying. However, the other elements - the music, characters, humour, chemistry between Barnaby and Troy, and the of course scenery - made the episode more enjoyable to watch.
The episode begins with a flashback to 1955 in Ireland. A young boy shoots and kills his father in his bed.
In present day Midsomer, we are introduced to the members of a writer's circle. They agree to invite a famous writer called Max Jennings to attend a meeting. However, one of the members, Gerald Hadleigh, appears apprehensive about this and asks one of the other members, Amy Lyddiard, to make sure that he is not left alone with Jennings. The next morning, Gerald is found naked and bludgeoned to death in his bedroom, and the clothes in his wardrobe appear to have been stolen... an investigation by Barnaby and Troy begins.
As usual, the music, scenery and the humour add a lot of charm and atmosphere to the show. The cast of characters were interesting and the script was decent.
All of the actors involved in this episode played their parts very well. It took me a while to realise that Amy was played by Joanna David, because she looked different to other TV shows that I have seen her in. I liked the character called Laura Hutton, played by Jane Booker. The actor who played Brian Clapper was creepy but charismatic. I also wanted to mention the cameo by Una Stubbs, who played Jennings's wife Selina. She did a great performance in such short screen time.
However, I thought that this episode had a lot of missed potential. The backstory involving Gerald and Amy's deceased husband, Ralph, could've been developed more. Gerald himself seemed an interesting personality and I wish we could've seen more of him. Maybe the writers had to omit a few things for timing reasons.
I was confused by the subplot involving the drama teacher, Brian Clapper. I don't understand why the (underage) student would sleep with Brian, knowing her brother was watching outside taking photos, then mock Brian the next day along with the rest of the drama class. It was unclear and quite weird actually. There wasn't much of a conclusion.
The other subplot of Barnaby being allergic to Cully's cat was sort of irritating, although there was a funny scene where he was having a sneezing fit and shouts "WHAT!" to a policeman who was trying to tell him something.
The killer was a bit obvious, even her unusual name and the old gothic house was a giveaway, but I didn't mind that too much.
I thought the dramatic ending was very rushed and a bit silly, more funny than frightening. The transition from the penultimate scene to the last scene (Barnaby in his garden) was sudden. I watched this episode on ITVX, so I wondered if something had been edited out.
Overall, I found story had an interesting premise but the ending was rushed and unsatisfying. However, the other elements - the music, characters, humour, chemistry between Barnaby and Troy, and the of course scenery - made the episode more enjoyable to watch.
After such a solid start, this episode is even better and a beautiful episode in itself
znatokdetectiva3 November 2020
Midsomer Murders is one of the greatest detective shows. I loved it when it first started, and I love it just as much now that its quality is no worse. After such a solid, beautiful and established start in the face of "The Killings at Badger's Drift", the show gets even better with"Written in Blood". It's not one of the best episodes of the show, but it's close to it, and it does a lot of the good things that we love so much about Midsomer Murders.
This is a truly great episode and also one of the most atmospheric. In this regard, few episodes can compare with it ("Dark Secrets", "The Straw Woman", "The Sting of Death", "With Baited Breath"and" Death's Shadow"). The episode has a lot of color and colorful characters, Honoria and Gerald are probably some of the most colorful characters in the series (thanks to Anna Massey and Robert Swann), and Amy, Max, Selina and Brian are slightly worse. The murder of Mr. Hanlon looks spectacular and very memorable.
The denouement is one of the best, thoughtful, spectacular, shocking and intense in the show. The ending with max's murder is incredibly unexpected and surprising, probably the most unexpected in the show. The climax of the main story with the murder of Gerald is not so striking, but it is strikingly spectacular.
I would like to say a few words about the book. It's very different from the movie version, but I can't say which one is better. The serial version is more shocking and spectacular, but the book version is better from a psychological point of view. The only drawback of the film adaptation, compared to the book, I can call the lack of disclosure of the character Laura Hutton (not quite) and some changes in the past of Gerald. Otherwise, both variations are very good.
As for the shortcomings of the episode as such, they can be considered a certain perversity of the story, although I can not say that it greatly spoils the impression of such an exceptional episode
The cast of the episode is all great, especially Anna Massey and Robert Swann, as well as Joanna David, John Shrapnel and Una Stubbs.
All in all, a great and exceptional episode, continuing the quality of the previous episode and just a great episode of the show. 9.5/10.
a not so smart detective
sandcrab27713 July 2019
This dci barnaby is lauded as such a cleaver detective yet he fails to deduce that he is allergic to his daughter's cat ... as typical with most murder mysteries, the cops must try the crime on all possible suspects until they finally figure it out ...and the writers try their best to throw in as many red herrings to keep you off balance ...it all adds up to 40 minutes of entertainment
MIssed film connection
francespen16 August 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Saw this again recently and enjoyed it as much as I did first time round even though of course I know now who-dun-it. Along with the nods to Psycho - preserved body and Rebecca with Anna Massey revisiting Mrs. Danvers there was another one Honoria doing her version of "Here's Johnny!" from The Shining.
Excellent but could have been better
lewis-511 November 2023
As others have written, I too am amazed at the quality of this 100 minute television program. It is better than almost any other episode of any other mystery series that I have ever seen -- and I'm 70 years old.
But there is a problem keeping it from being even better. One of the subplots (of course there are always subplots) suddenly takes an utterly bizarre and totally unnecessary twist. It is a ridiculous distraction. I don't want to go into any more detail, but, good heavens: what were they thinking? It's as if in the middle of a Star Trek episode Kirk, Bones, and Spock sat down on the bridge to play strip poker for ten minutes. Whaaaa????
Also I didn't like the very last scene. The comeuppance to the villain is rather stereotypical. But that is minor and easily forgiven given the excellent and very creative main ideas.
But there is a problem keeping it from being even better. One of the subplots (of course there are always subplots) suddenly takes an utterly bizarre and totally unnecessary twist. It is a ridiculous distraction. I don't want to go into any more detail, but, good heavens: what were they thinking? It's as if in the middle of a Star Trek episode Kirk, Bones, and Spock sat down on the bridge to play strip poker for ten minutes. Whaaaa????
Also I didn't like the very last scene. The comeuppance to the villain is rather stereotypical. But that is minor and easily forgiven given the excellent and very creative main ideas.
Great except for..
kall66951 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This is a great episode. #2. Great acting, plot, casting, etc. Stellar ending.
However, I think they could have left out is the side plot of Brian Clapper. It was nauseating. I fast forwarded through his part, having already seen this show many times. Probably will have to edit my copy and cut out his interactions at the school and with the girl. It does not add anything to the overall plot of the episode and is just nasty.
The best part is the ending. I used to watch this when my daughter was younger and she loved the part where Honoria went completely mad coming after Amy with the knife. The expression on her face is priceless.
However, I think they could have left out is the side plot of Brian Clapper. It was nauseating. I fast forwarded through his part, having already seen this show many times. Probably will have to edit my copy and cut out his interactions at the school and with the girl. It does not add anything to the overall plot of the episode and is just nasty.
The best part is the ending. I used to watch this when my daughter was younger and she loved the part where Honoria went completely mad coming after Amy with the knife. The expression on her face is priceless.
Midsomer Murders and the far away hills
hossychristie8 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Midsomer Murders started off wonderfully with "The Killings at Badger's Drift and "Written in Blood" continues its classic standard. Part of the reason is the perfect John Nettles as Tom Barnaby, a character with both humour and thoughtfulness. Jane Wymark is so good in her role as Joyce Barnaby, the kindest person in Midsomer Murders, and the perfect wife and mother to Tom and Cully.
"Written in Blood" starts in Durrow, Southern Ireland 1955. Liam Henlon, a young boy, is sexually abused by his father, and Liam wants to put an end to all the pain his father has caused him. One night, he finds a shotgun, he goes into his father bedroom, and pulls the trigger. After realising that his father is dead, he runs away from home.
In present day, Gerald Hadleigh, Amy Lyddiard, Honoria Lyddiard, Laura Hutton, Brian Clapper and Sue Clapper, are having their monthly meeting for the Midsomer Worthy Writers Circle. They are having a discussion of which writer they shall invite, and Gerald's proposititions are being rejected. Amy Lyddiard suggests they should invite Max Jennings, the famous writer behind the best selling book, "The Far Away Hills". Gerald Hadleigh is deeply troubled about Amy's suggestion, and says he don't want him to come. Unfortunately for Gerald, the majority vote is yes. Gerald is still deeply troubled knowing Max Jennings will come to his house later in the evening, and asks Amy to make sure that Gerald won't be left alone with Jennings during the evening, something Amy Lyddiard agrees upon.
Amy and Honoria Lyddiard live together at Gresham Hall. Amy was married to Ralph Lyddiard, Honoria's brother. She adores her brother and writes a history of England, seen through the personal chronicles of her family, the Lyddiards. She does anything to find some new information about her brother, and she does so, in Navy news at Laura Hutton's shop. Honoria knocks at Gerald's door some hours before the Midsomer Murders Writers Circle's meeting with Max Jennings, but there is no reply.
During the meeting with Max Jennings, Max asks them if them have any qustions they would like to ask him. Max looks at Gerald and wants him to say something, but Gerald rejects him. Eventuelly Gerald asks Max a question about the truth in fiction, and wonders where Max gets all his ideas. When Max replies that it is mainly from experience, Gerald seems suprised, but finds the answer interesting, and replies that he have nothing he can write about, not now. At the end of the meeting, Amy makes sure that Max leaves alongside her and Honoria, but when Max tells them that he needs to go inside again to collect a pair of gloves, Amy is forced to leave Gerald alone with Max in Gerald's house. A while later, Max leaves Gerald's house and drives away.
The following morning, Gerald Hadleigh is found murdered by his cleaning lady, Mrs Bundy. She is in a terrible state, but is capable enough to inform Barnaby of the meeting that was held the previous evening. Troy says that Mrs Bundy knew the people who attended the writing circle evening, accept the invited writer Max Jennings. Barnaby and Troy talks to Sue Clapper, and get the name they have been looking for, the famous writer, Max Jennings.
After a while, Max Jennings is found murdered in a sea cottage, and the pieces start to be tied up. It transpires that Max had a secret relationship with his secretary, Barbara Neal, and she reveals she found Max dead without noticing Barnaby. They had booked the sea cottage together and the trip to Denmark was just a front, which they told Max's wife, Selina. Even though he is dead, Gerald Hadleigh still owns a flat in London that is overlooking the Albert Hall. When Barnaby and Troy get there, and Barnaby starts to wander around in the flat, he gets the feeling that he knows this place, that he has been here, and after a while, he recalls what Joyce told him in advance, about "The Far Away Hills" and that the young boy, Liam Henlon, which the book is about, bought a flat in London overlooking the Albert Hall. Barnaby remembers that Joyce gave him details about the flat and how it was described in the book, and realises that the young boy, Liam Henlon, which the book is about, is indeed Gerald Hadleigh, and he tells Troy the complete picture. The story is about Liam Henlon, who lives with his father in Durrow, Southern Ireland. Liam is sexually abused by his father and kills him in 1955. He runs away from home and meets an artist in Europe. The artist paints him in historical dress and the paintings are sold for a fortune. He gets rich, buys a flat in London overlooking the Albert Hall, and tells Max Jennings everything. Max Jennings used to work as a psychiatrist before he became a writer and when Gerald told him his innermost secrets, Max took what Hadleigh had told him and put it in a book. It is revealed that Gerald Hadleigh killed Max Jennings and on the way home from London, Barnaby and Troy find out that Honoria Lyddiard killed Gerald Hadleigh, after finding out that the artist Gerald met in Europe, was indeed Ralph Lyddiard, Honoria's brother, and that Ralph and Gerald were lovers, as a result of Gerald being a transvestite.
After this summary of the main points of this story, I feel that this story about Gerald Hadleigh being Liam Henlon, and that his life was put into the book, "The Far Away Hills" is indeed a wonderful episode. I really like the setting about a writers circle, and that Gerald indeed was at center stage. As said, it is a wonderful episode, but the only thing that still troubles me about this episode, is the subplot about the drama class that Brian Clapper teaches. First of all, it did never bring anything interesting to the story, and I still wonder, why would a 15 year old girl be interested in an old man like Brian Clapper? I know it is a part of a play, but at the end of the day, that story just feels weird in my opinion. If they had told him in advance that Brian and Edie would make love, and that is just was a part of the play, the story's coup de théâtre, this part of the story would have been a lot more credible. Instead they just make fun of him, and I then begin to wonder if this actually was meant to be a part of the play, or if their intention was to freeze him out of his own play.
Anna Massey, Joanna David and Robert Swann are the fare strongest of the supporting cast. Even though Honoria kills Gerald Hadleigh in anger, Honoria still cares about Ralph, even though he is dead, and during a conversation with Amy at the end of the episode, when she is confessing to the murder of Gerald Hadleigh, we can see that she nearly starts to cry when she talks about Ralph. That is touching, considering that Honoria feels like a bland character. Amy is a joy to watch and Joanna David plays her wonderfully well. Amy is getting used to being protected by Honoria. Honoria talks in a patronising way to Amy, but still, Amy manages to cheer up. That shows willpower and a wonderful actress behind the character. Robert Swann is a joy to watch in this episode as well, even though his character Gerald Hadleigh is killed off early on. Gerald may look like a bland person at first glance, but I believe that he has so much trauma in him from his childhood, not to mention the betrayal he feels after being let down by Max Jennings, when he wrote the book about Gerald Hadleigh's life in "The Far away Hills".
"Written in Blood" is an incredibly well-made episode, beautifully photographed with a gorgeously idyllic scenery. The story is a bit darker than "The Killings at "Badger's Drift", and this story is compelling as well. The director and writer collaboration between Jeremy Silberston and Anthony Horowitz is a wonderful joy to witness. Bosham, Sussex stands out as the most wonderful filming location in this episode alongside Aldbury in Hertfordshire.
In conclusion, Midsomer Murders continues its classic standard with "Written in Blood". 10/10 Hossy Christie.
"Written in Blood" starts in Durrow, Southern Ireland 1955. Liam Henlon, a young boy, is sexually abused by his father, and Liam wants to put an end to all the pain his father has caused him. One night, he finds a shotgun, he goes into his father bedroom, and pulls the trigger. After realising that his father is dead, he runs away from home.
In present day, Gerald Hadleigh, Amy Lyddiard, Honoria Lyddiard, Laura Hutton, Brian Clapper and Sue Clapper, are having their monthly meeting for the Midsomer Worthy Writers Circle. They are having a discussion of which writer they shall invite, and Gerald's proposititions are being rejected. Amy Lyddiard suggests they should invite Max Jennings, the famous writer behind the best selling book, "The Far Away Hills". Gerald Hadleigh is deeply troubled about Amy's suggestion, and says he don't want him to come. Unfortunately for Gerald, the majority vote is yes. Gerald is still deeply troubled knowing Max Jennings will come to his house later in the evening, and asks Amy to make sure that Gerald won't be left alone with Jennings during the evening, something Amy Lyddiard agrees upon.
Amy and Honoria Lyddiard live together at Gresham Hall. Amy was married to Ralph Lyddiard, Honoria's brother. She adores her brother and writes a history of England, seen through the personal chronicles of her family, the Lyddiards. She does anything to find some new information about her brother, and she does so, in Navy news at Laura Hutton's shop. Honoria knocks at Gerald's door some hours before the Midsomer Murders Writers Circle's meeting with Max Jennings, but there is no reply.
During the meeting with Max Jennings, Max asks them if them have any qustions they would like to ask him. Max looks at Gerald and wants him to say something, but Gerald rejects him. Eventuelly Gerald asks Max a question about the truth in fiction, and wonders where Max gets all his ideas. When Max replies that it is mainly from experience, Gerald seems suprised, but finds the answer interesting, and replies that he have nothing he can write about, not now. At the end of the meeting, Amy makes sure that Max leaves alongside her and Honoria, but when Max tells them that he needs to go inside again to collect a pair of gloves, Amy is forced to leave Gerald alone with Max in Gerald's house. A while later, Max leaves Gerald's house and drives away.
The following morning, Gerald Hadleigh is found murdered by his cleaning lady, Mrs Bundy. She is in a terrible state, but is capable enough to inform Barnaby of the meeting that was held the previous evening. Troy says that Mrs Bundy knew the people who attended the writing circle evening, accept the invited writer Max Jennings. Barnaby and Troy talks to Sue Clapper, and get the name they have been looking for, the famous writer, Max Jennings.
After a while, Max Jennings is found murdered in a sea cottage, and the pieces start to be tied up. It transpires that Max had a secret relationship with his secretary, Barbara Neal, and she reveals she found Max dead without noticing Barnaby. They had booked the sea cottage together and the trip to Denmark was just a front, which they told Max's wife, Selina. Even though he is dead, Gerald Hadleigh still owns a flat in London that is overlooking the Albert Hall. When Barnaby and Troy get there, and Barnaby starts to wander around in the flat, he gets the feeling that he knows this place, that he has been here, and after a while, he recalls what Joyce told him in advance, about "The Far Away Hills" and that the young boy, Liam Henlon, which the book is about, bought a flat in London overlooking the Albert Hall. Barnaby remembers that Joyce gave him details about the flat and how it was described in the book, and realises that the young boy, Liam Henlon, which the book is about, is indeed Gerald Hadleigh, and he tells Troy the complete picture. The story is about Liam Henlon, who lives with his father in Durrow, Southern Ireland. Liam is sexually abused by his father and kills him in 1955. He runs away from home and meets an artist in Europe. The artist paints him in historical dress and the paintings are sold for a fortune. He gets rich, buys a flat in London overlooking the Albert Hall, and tells Max Jennings everything. Max Jennings used to work as a psychiatrist before he became a writer and when Gerald told him his innermost secrets, Max took what Hadleigh had told him and put it in a book. It is revealed that Gerald Hadleigh killed Max Jennings and on the way home from London, Barnaby and Troy find out that Honoria Lyddiard killed Gerald Hadleigh, after finding out that the artist Gerald met in Europe, was indeed Ralph Lyddiard, Honoria's brother, and that Ralph and Gerald were lovers, as a result of Gerald being a transvestite.
After this summary of the main points of this story, I feel that this story about Gerald Hadleigh being Liam Henlon, and that his life was put into the book, "The Far Away Hills" is indeed a wonderful episode. I really like the setting about a writers circle, and that Gerald indeed was at center stage. As said, it is a wonderful episode, but the only thing that still troubles me about this episode, is the subplot about the drama class that Brian Clapper teaches. First of all, it did never bring anything interesting to the story, and I still wonder, why would a 15 year old girl be interested in an old man like Brian Clapper? I know it is a part of a play, but at the end of the day, that story just feels weird in my opinion. If they had told him in advance that Brian and Edie would make love, and that is just was a part of the play, the story's coup de théâtre, this part of the story would have been a lot more credible. Instead they just make fun of him, and I then begin to wonder if this actually was meant to be a part of the play, or if their intention was to freeze him out of his own play.
Anna Massey, Joanna David and Robert Swann are the fare strongest of the supporting cast. Even though Honoria kills Gerald Hadleigh in anger, Honoria still cares about Ralph, even though he is dead, and during a conversation with Amy at the end of the episode, when she is confessing to the murder of Gerald Hadleigh, we can see that she nearly starts to cry when she talks about Ralph. That is touching, considering that Honoria feels like a bland character. Amy is a joy to watch and Joanna David plays her wonderfully well. Amy is getting used to being protected by Honoria. Honoria talks in a patronising way to Amy, but still, Amy manages to cheer up. That shows willpower and a wonderful actress behind the character. Robert Swann is a joy to watch in this episode as well, even though his character Gerald Hadleigh is killed off early on. Gerald may look like a bland person at first glance, but I believe that he has so much trauma in him from his childhood, not to mention the betrayal he feels after being let down by Max Jennings, when he wrote the book about Gerald Hadleigh's life in "The Far away Hills".
"Written in Blood" is an incredibly well-made episode, beautifully photographed with a gorgeously idyllic scenery. The story is a bit darker than "The Killings at "Badger's Drift", and this story is compelling as well. The director and writer collaboration between Jeremy Silberston and Anthony Horowitz is a wonderful joy to witness. Bosham, Sussex stands out as the most wonderful filming location in this episode alongside Aldbury in Hertfordshire.
In conclusion, Midsomer Murders continues its classic standard with "Written in Blood". 10/10 Hossy Christie.
good characters/actors, meh everything else
cyriousbane4 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Very good acting, good characters (I particularly liked Honoria), but dragged out, silly in places (it is IMMEDIATELY clear why he's sneezing all the time and yet the brilliant detective-inspector can't seem to connect A to B) and lots of cliche out-of-nowhere twists, including a random bout of unnecessary transphobic garbage. I get the show's outdated, but it still sours the episode a bit. Didn't age well on that front, basically. Otherwise, not terrible, but ultimately dragged out and trying too hard, with lots of plot threads that get tangled or throw a loop for no reason or go nowhere in particular. But I will give it this--good acting, good and distinct characters. "Bri" is impressively slimy, Honoria is gloomy and sharp, etc.
Bloody Brilliant
ummajon20035 June 2016
Warning: Spoilers
So, last episode included incest (a sexual scene too) and this episode revolved around homosexual characters and transsexual or whatever the correct term is. Caroline Graham must have enjoyed writing about abnormal private lives. I personally do not enjoy these twisted topics, but other than that, the story was written well, however disturbing.
The Barnaby home scenes were adorable as Cully brings home her pet kitten for her parents to watch over while she goes to Poland to act in her new loser boyfriend-directed, Much Ado About Nothing. Tom does not want the cat to stay, and to make matters worse...he's developed a strange rash and bout of sneezes! Joyce and Tom enjoy a candle lit dinner next to their back garden's huge window, the lovely trees and grass on view.
Seriously, I would have just watched this series for the family time situations.
Troy is still a terrible driver and irritates Barnaby endlessly.
Check out my Midsomer blog in which I highlight the beautiful exterior and interiors of the show: http://midsomermurders1997.blogspot.com/
The Barnaby home scenes were adorable as Cully brings home her pet kitten for her parents to watch over while she goes to Poland to act in her new loser boyfriend-directed, Much Ado About Nothing. Tom does not want the cat to stay, and to make matters worse...he's developed a strange rash and bout of sneezes! Joyce and Tom enjoy a candle lit dinner next to their back garden's huge window, the lovely trees and grass on view.
Seriously, I would have just watched this series for the family time situations.
Troy is still a terrible driver and irritates Barnaby endlessly.
Check out my Midsomer blog in which I highlight the beautiful exterior and interiors of the show: http://midsomermurders1997.blogspot.com/
too forced
blahzm22 December 2013
When the murder was finally pieced together, I found it all to be too odd and unrealistic to appreciate this episode. The intentions of all the characters involved seemed too bizarre and outlandish. It seemed that the ending was only meant to answer the complexities of the case. It's as if you're forcing wrong pieces of the puzzles to conform to the right piece.
The acting was relatively good. I don't know if this is a common quality of British acting but I have to say that the climatic scenes ended up being anticlimactic because of the lack of emotion and realism behind these scenes.
The acting was relatively good. I don't know if this is a common quality of British acting but I have to say that the climatic scenes ended up being anticlimactic because of the lack of emotion and realism behind these scenes.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
