Ep 1. The Russian House

Foyle's War season 7 episode 1, titled "The Russian House," is set in the year 1946, just after the end of World War II. The episode follows Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle, played by Michael Kitchen, as he investigates a murder that appears to be connected to a group of Russian defectors who are seeking asylum in England. The episode takes place in London and focuses on the tensions between the British and Russian governments, as well as the difficulties faced by former enemy combatants who are trying to rebuild their lives in a post-war world.

The central mystery of the episode revolves around the death of a young Russian translator named Teddy, who was part of the group of defectors seeking asylum in England. Teddy is found brutally murdered in a hotel room, and Foyle is called in to investigate. His only lead is a cryptic note found in Teddy's pocket that suggests he may have been involved in espionage activities.

As Foyle delves deeper into the case, he discovers a network of Russian spies who are working to undermine the British government's efforts to rebuild after the war. He also encounters a number of former Soviet officials who are trying to navigate the complex political landscape of post-war Europe. Along the way, Foyle is assisted by his loyal driver, Sam, and a new assistant named Adam, who is a former soldier struggling to adjust to civilian life.

One of the key themes of the episode is the tension between the British and Russian governments, which are each trying to assert their authority in a post-war world. Foyle must navigate this tense political landscape in order to solve the crime and bring Teddy's killer to justice. At the same time, he is forced to confront his own biases and assumptions about the Russians, and to question whether his loyalty to the British government is always justified.

"The Russian House" is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that explores the aftermath of World War II in a nuanced and complex way. The writing is sharp and suspenseful, and the performances by the cast are outstanding. Michael Kitchen is particularly impressive as Foyle, bringing a quiet intensity and deep humanity to the character. Overall, this is a must-watch episode for fans of Foyle's War and anyone interested in the history of post-war Europe.