Ep 32. Miss Marple, Series VII: (2) Greenshaw's Folly

Miss Marple returns for another thrilling mystery in season 44 of Masterpiece. In episode 32, titled "Greenshaw's Folly," viewers are reunited with the beloved character as she seeks to uncover the truth behind a suspicious death.

The episode begins with the discovery of a dead body at the Greenshaw's Folly estate. Spirits are high as Lucy Eyelesbarrow, an old friend of Miss Marple's, arrives at the estate to begin preparations for a party. However, the festive mood quickly turns dark when the body of a former girlfriend of the estate's owner is found murdered.

Miss Marple is drawn into the investigation when Lucy contacts her for help. As they delve deeper into the case, they discover that there are a host of suspects with possible motives. The victim, once married to the estate's owner, has a past shrouded in mystery. Her ex-husband and his new wife, along with their young daughter, are among the first to be scrutinized by the detectives.

The estate's gamekeeper, a local vicar, and a young woman who worked at the local pub are also questioned about their possible involvement. Clues seem to point in many different directions, including a missing painting that could hold the key to the motive behind the murder.

Miss Marple's keen observation skills and understanding of human nature prove invaluable as she pieces together the clues and works to unravel the truth behind the death. As the investigation progresses, the body count grows and the detectives must work to prevent any further harm.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to gorgeous cinematography and stunning location shots. The Greenshaw's Folly estate is a character in its own right, with its sprawling gardens and picturesque views. The attention to detail in each scene is evident, from the period costumes to the carefully crafted set pieces.

The episode has a slow burn pace that allows the tension to build steadily. Each new piece of information creates more complexity and intrigue, with enough twists and turns to keep viewers guessing until the very end.

The performances of the cast are superb, with special mention going to Julia McKenzie as Miss Marple. She embodies the character with a quiet strength that is both charming and commanding. The supporting cast all bring their A-game and help to create a rich tapestry of characters that makes for compelling viewing.

In conclusion, "Greenshaw's Folly" is a must-watch episode for fans of the Masterpiece series and of the Miss Marple character specifically. With its intricate plotting, stunning visuals, and standout performances, it is a standout entry in the long-running and beloved series.