Ep 16. CrabtreeMania

Murdoch Mysteries Season 8 Episode 16, titled "CrabtreeMania," is an intriguing episode that gets its name from the sudden popularity of a popular wrestler known as Len "Crabtree" Kemerling. The episode features Detective William Murdoch and his team investigating a murder case involving some of the most renowned personalities in the wrestling world.

The episode begins with Murdoch and Dr. Julia Ogden attending an event at the Grand Theatre, where they are introduced to Len Kemerling, a famous wrestler, who has just arrived in Toronto after winning a championship in New York. The two find themselves drawn towards the wrestler despite not being fans of wrestling.

Soon enough, they discover that the wrestler's arrival has caused a frenzy in the city, and some of the most prominent figures in the wrestling world have congregated in Toronto, including the legendary wrestler George "The Animal" Steele. The episode takes an interesting twist when one of the wrestling officials is found murdered.

The episode then follows Murdoch and his team as they investigate the crime, leading them through a web of deceit, double-crossing, and even blackmail. The plot thickens as they come across several potential suspects who are all associated with the wrestling world.

Throughout the episode, the writers do a great job of keeping the viewers guessing about who the murderer might be, putting forth several possibilities, each of which seems plausible. The tension keeps building up, and the anticipation is maintained until the very end when the murderer is finally revealed.

As in most Murdoch Mysteries episodes, the 8th season's episode 16 is excellently done, staying true to the show's trademark formula of blending history and mystery. The episode is set in 1904, and the set pieces, costumes, and props all reflect the period.

The show's actors too, do an outstanding job. Yannick Bisson delivers an excellent performance as William Murdock, bringing a sense of credibility and authenticity to the character. He is well supported by Helene Joy, who plays Julia Ogden. Their banter and the chemistry between the two characters never fail to delight viewers.

Credit to the show's writers for maintaining a fine balance between levity and tension. The episode has its share of amusing moments, especially when it comes to the portrayal of the wrestling characters. At the same time, the intrigue and suspense keep the viewers invested in the plot.

Overall, Murdoch Mysteries Season 8 Episode 16 offers everything that fans of the show have come to expect- solid performances, a great plot, and excellent attention to detail. The episode is a testament to the fact that the show continues to hold its own even in its eighth season.

In conclusion, if you are a fan of mystery shows that offer a glimpse of the past, then Murdoch Mysteries Season 8 Episode 16 is worth watching. It is an excellent example of the show's ability to blend historical events and characters with fictional ones to create an engaging storyline.