Ep 2. The White Feather

Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle (Michael Kitchen) is back, and he's just as determined as ever to track down criminals and bring them to justice. In season 1, episode 2 of "Foyle's War," entitled "The White Feather," Foyle is faced with a new challenge as he investigates a murder in Hastings during World War II.

The episode opens with a group of soldiers returning from the front lines, greeted by loved ones and well-wishers at the railway station. However, one soldier, David Beale, receives a white feather - a symbol of cowardice - from a young woman in the crowd. Beale is understandably upset and angry, and when he arrives home, he gets into an argument with his sister and her husband over his decision to enlist in the army. Later that night, Beale is found dead in his bedroom, an apparent suicide. However, Foyle isn't convinced that it's as simple as that.

As Foyle begins to investigate, he uncovers a web of lies and secrets in the Beale family. David's sister, Alice (Emma Fielding), seems particularly evasive, and Foyle begins to suspect that she is hiding something. Meanwhile, Foyle's sergeant, Paul Milner (Anthony Howell), is pursuing his own investigation, looking into the other soldiers who received white feathers that day and trying to figure out who might have given them.

As the episode progresses, Foyle and Milner find themselves pulled deeper into the case, uncovering a conspiracy that goes far beyond the Beale family. Along the way, they must contend with corrupt officials, Nazi spies, and the ever-present danger of bombings and air raids.

One of the strengths of "Foyle's War" is its attention to historical detail, and "The White Feather" is no exception. The episode expertly captures the atmosphere of wartime Britain, from the fear and uncertainty of the civilians to the soldiers' sense of duty and sacrifice. The show also touches on some of the more controversial aspects of the war, such as the treatment of conscientious objectors and the tension between Britain and its American allies.

Of course, at the heart of every "Foyle's War" episode is the man himself, Christopher Foyle. Michael Kitchen's performance as Foyle is understated and nuanced, yet always compelling. Foyle is a man of principle and integrity, but he's also capable of surprising moments of wit and humor. In "The White Feather," Kitchen delivers another masterful performance, giving us a glimpse into the inner workings of a character who is always holding something back.

Overall, "The White Feather" is another strong episode of "Foyle's War," combining intricate plotting, sharp dialogue, and first-rate performances. Whether you're a fan of detective shows, historical dramas, or just good storytelling, this episode is definitely worth a watch.