Ep 3. Bomber's Moon

Set in the 1960s in rural England, George Gently is a crime drama that follows the character of George Gently himself, a seasoned detective struggling with the loss of his wife. In the third episode of the first season, titled "Bomber's Moon," Gently is called to investigate a case involving the death of a young woman.

The episode opens with a young woman named Lisa, who is seen running through the woods in a state of terror. She appears to be fleeing from someone, and just as she manages to escape her pursuer, she is suddenly struck by a car and killed instantly. Gently, who has recently transferred to the rural town of Durham, is called to investigate the case along with his young and inexperienced partner, Sergeant Bacchus.

Their investigation leads them to a local RAF airbase, where Lisa’s boyfriend, a young airman named Joe, works. It quickly becomes clear that Joe is hiding something, and Gently and Bacchus soon learn that he has been associated with a local anti-war protest group that has been causing trouble in the area. As their investigation deepens, they uncover a web of deceit that involves not only the protest group but also corrupt officials at the airbase who are working to cover up a dangerous incident that has left an entire squadron of pilots at risk.

As Gently and Bacchus delve deeper into the case, they begin to realize that there is more at stake than just the death of one young woman. They find themselves caught in the midst of a scandal that has profound implications for the safety of the entire country. Their investigation leads them to confront not only the suspects in the case but also the wider political and social forces that are shaping the country in the turbulent 1960s.

Throughout the episode, the tension between Gently and Bacchus is palpable. While Gently is the seasoned veteran, with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of human nature, Bacchus is brash and impulsive, often jumping to conclusions and making mistakes that could jeopardize the investigation. However, as the case progresses, Gently comes to see the potential in his young partner and begins to mentor him, helping him to develop his skills as a detective and encouraging him to think more deeply about the nature of justice and the role of the police in society.

The episode is masterfully shot and edited, with stunning views of the rugged landscapes of rural England and evocative period details that capture the spirit of the 1960s. The acting is superb, with Martin Shaw delivering a powerful performance as George Gently, embodying both the steely determination and the wounded vulnerability of his character. Lee Ingleby is also excellent as Sergeant Bacchus, capturing the brash and sometimes foolish demeanor of a young man thrust into a world he is not yet ready for.

Overall, "Bomber's Moon" is an excellent episode of the George Gently series, combining compelling storytelling, exceptional acting, and masterful direction to create a gripping crime drama that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you are a fan of detective shows, period dramas, or simply great television, this episode is not to be missed.