Ep 5. The Face of the Enemy

Father Brown season 6 episode 5, titled "The Face of the Enemy," is a riveting mystery that sees the titular Father Brown (Mark Williams) investigating a spate of murders that seem to be linked to a group of former Nazis who have found refuge in the idyllic English countryside.

The episode opens with the discovery of a body in the woods, and it quickly becomes clear that the victim was killed in a manner that echoes the methods of the Third Reich. Father Brown is called in to investigate, and he soon uncovers a web of intrigue and betrayal that reaches back to the war years.

As he delves deeper into the case, Father Brown finds himself drawn into the lives of a group of German immigrants who have settled in the area. Among them is the mysterious and alluring Anna Bauer (Annette Badland), whom Father Brown suspects may be hiding a dark secret.

Complicating matters further is the presence of a British intelligence agent named Captain Francis (Jack Deam), who is convinced that the Germans are plotting a new wave of attacks on the country. Father Brown is torn between his duty to uncover the truth and his desire to protect the innocent, even as the danger begins to close in around him.

"The Face of the Enemy" is a masterfully crafted episode that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the lasting impact of war. The acting is uniformly excellent, with Mark Williams bringing a great sensitivity and depth to his portrayal of Father Brown, and Annette Badland delivering a standout performance as the enigmatic Anna.

As always, the production values are top-notch, with the picturesque English countryside providing a beautiful backdrop to the unfolding drama. The score is also worthy of note, expertly augmenting the tense atmosphere of the episode.

Overall, "The Face of the Enemy" is a satisfying and engrossing installment in the Father Brown series, and one that will keep fans of the show on the edge of their seats. Whether you're a dedicated mystery fan or a casual viewer looking for some quality TV, this episode is definitely worth your time.