Masterpiece Season 40 Episode 16 Miss Marple, Series V: Blue Geranium

Miss Marple makes a return in Season 40, Episode 16 of Masterpiece titled "Blue Geranium." The episode is part of Series V and features the celebrated detective Miss Marple as she investigates a mysterious murder. Set in the peaceful town of Little Paddocks, the episode builds on the classic whodunit formula that made Miss Marple a beloved character for generations.

The plot begins when Miss Marple receives a strange letter from an old acquaintance in Little Paddocks. The letter warns her of an impending murder, and while she initially dismisses it as merely a paranoid delusion, she can't help but investigate it further. Upon arriving in Little Paddocks, Miss Marple is greeted with an unexpected scene - the garden party she was invited to is now a crime scene, where a woman has been found murdered in the nearby woods.

The victim is Lydia Lee, a wealthy socialite and guest at the garden party. Everyone is shocked and horrified at the murder, but none more so than Miss Marple, who must use all of her skills to find the killer before they can strike again. She quickly realizes that the victim was not the intended target, and that someone else might still be in danger.

As she delves deeper into the case, Miss Marple discovers that there are plenty of suspects with their own motives for wanting Lydia Lee dead. The victim's husband, who stands to inherit a fortune, is an obvious suspect. However, there are also rumors of a disputed inheritance that might have led to the murder. Miss Marple also uncovers some intriguing clues in the form of a mysterious blue geranium, which appears to feature prominently in the investigation.

Throughout the episode, we see Miss Marple use her unparalleled deductive skills to piece together the clues and identify the killer. She has to be very careful as she gets closer to the truth, though, as the killer becomes increasingly desperate to cover their tracks. The episode is filled with intriguing twists and turns, and viewers will be kept guessing until the very end.

In addition to the excellent detective work and suspenseful storytelling, "Blue Geranium" also features top-notch performances from the cast. Julia McKenzie is excellent as Miss Marple, perfectly capturing the character's blend of kindness and razor-sharp wit. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with standout performances from actors like Toby Stephens and Juliet Stevenson.

Overall, "Blue Geranium" is a strong addition to the Miss Marple legacy. It's a classic whodunit story that is sure to appeal to mystery fans of all ages. Between the excellent acting, intriguing plot, and detailed world-building, it's easy to see why Miss Marple remains such a beloved character. Whether you're a devoted fan or a newcomer to the world of Little Paddocks, "Blue Geranium" is definitely worth a watch.