Based on the smart whodunits written by British author Elizabeth George, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Series 6 compiles two first-rate 90-minute episodes. “Limbo” finds Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley (Nathaniel Parker) at a loss after the tragic death of his wife Helen, drinking rather more than he should, which worries his partner, Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers (Sharon Small). But Lynley manages to lose himself in a 12-year-old case involving the disappearance of a young boy…whose corpse is suddenly and unexpectedly found. In “Know Thine Enemy,” Lynley and Havers are investigating the death of sexually assaulted teenager Sarah Middleton—who had gone missing two weeks previously—when the sudden disappearance of a second schoolgirl forces the detectives into a race against time to ferret out the killer. Although the classic British murder mystery was constructed like a puzzle or chess game, with little attempt at broader characterizations, recent entries have tended to make their sleuths more recognizably human. Accordingly, the Lynley stories derive much of their appeal from the interaction between Lynley and Havers, who in these final two installments are considerably closer and less formal than in earlier episodes. Of course, the mystery elements are still foremost, and even the most mentally agile viewers will be hard pressed to dope out the solutions to the crimes here. DVD extras include an interview with George, and downloadable materials from the Masterpiece Mystery! Book & Film Club. Recommended. [Note: The Complete Inspector Lynley Mysteries boxed set, compiling all 23 episodes on 12 discs, is also available for $199.95.] (E. Hulse)
The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Series 6
WGBH, 2 discs, 172 min., not rated, DVD: $29.95 Volume 23, Issue 6
The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Series 6
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