Phyrne is summoned to a small town by Oskar Voigt, the co-owner of a winery. Upon her arrival, she and Dot discover that Mr Voigt is dead. While the police and local doctor call it a heart attack, Phryne has seen enough to know that something is odd about Oskar's death. The local police, however, threaten to arrest Phryne if she continues her investigations. Even Oskar's brother doesn't want Phryne investigating. It feels as if the whole town is against her. She calls Jack to her rescue. Together they attempt to determine what's happening in this small town and who killed winemaker Oskar Voigt.
The run of wonderfully entertaining episodes continues with Death on the Vine. This one has a bit more atmosphere than most. There is a real sense o danger. I was reminded of The Avenger's episode The Town of No Return. Both feature our heroes in a small town, trying to investigate, but being blocked at every turn by the locals. Very nicely done. The acting, as usual, is perfect. The actors playing the band of villagers, led by David Ford as Sergeant Ford, is especially strong. The sets, costuming, and the locations are spot-on. I really enjoyed the rural setting in this episode. It made for a nice change of pace. Finally, the mystery's solution is satisfactory. I doubt that any viewer could figure out the whole thing, but it's fun to watch Jack and Phryne investigate.
One last thing, the scenes featuring Dot and Hugh are about as "cute" (can't believe I used that word) as any I've seen. Watching Hugh try to find the perfect way and the perfect moment to pop the question is endlessly entertaining. Well done!
The run of wonderfully entertaining episodes continues with Death on the Vine. This one has a bit more atmosphere than most. There is a real sense o danger. I was reminded of The Avenger's episode The Town of No Return. Both feature our heroes in a small town, trying to investigate, but being blocked at every turn by the locals. Very nicely done. The acting, as usual, is perfect. The actors playing the band of villagers, led by David Ford as Sergeant Ford, is especially strong. The sets, costuming, and the locations are spot-on. I really enjoyed the rural setting in this episode. It made for a nice change of pace. Finally, the mystery's solution is satisfactory. I doubt that any viewer could figure out the whole thing, but it's fun to watch Jack and Phryne investigate.
One last thing, the scenes featuring Dot and Hugh are about as "cute" (can't believe I used that word) as any I've seen. Watching Hugh try to find the perfect way and the perfect moment to pop the question is endlessly entertaining. Well done!
