Ep 1. Maigret Sets a Trap

In the first episode of the 2016 season of Maigret, titled "Maigret Sets a Trap," we see Detective Chief Inspector Jules Maigret (played by Rowan Atkinson) facing one of the toughest cases of his career. A serial killer has been targeting young women in Montmartre, Paris, and despite multiple leads, the police have been unable to catch him. Maigret, who is known for his unconventional methods of investigation, becomes personally invested in the case and decides to take matters into his own hands.

Maigret decides to set a trap for the killer by planting a young policewoman as bait in a local bar frequented by the murderer. This puts a lot of pressure on Maigret, as he has to keep the policewoman safe without revealing that she's a decoy. He also has to contend with the high level of scrutiny from his superiors and the media, who are critical of his unorthodox tactics.

As the investigation continues, Maigret uncovers a web of secrets involving the victims and their families, and realizes that the killer may be someone close to them. He also faces challenges from his own team, who are skeptical of his methods. However, Maigret's persistence and dedication eventually lead to a breakthrough in the case, and the killer's true identity is revealed.

"Maigret Sets a Trap" is a tense and gripping episode that showcases Atkinson's skill as an actor. He brings a nuanced and restrained performance to the role of Maigret, who is a complex and fascinating character. The episode is also well-directed, with strong pacing and a strong sense of atmosphere. The setting of Montmartre is evocative and adds to the overall sense of tension and danger.

Overall, "Maigret Sets a Trap" is a strong start to the 2016 season of the show. It's a smart and engaging procedural that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Fans of crime dramas and detective stories will definitely want to check out this episode.