Ep 5. The Blind Beggar: Part 1

In Waking the Dead season 1 episode 5, titled "The Blind Beggar: Part 1," the team of investigators at the Cold Case Unit takes on a complex case that is more than two decades old. The episode begins with a violent murder that took place in London's East End in 1981. The victim is a young woman called Sarah Raistrick, who was brutally stabbed to death outside a pub called The Blind Beggar.

The case remained unsolved for 23 years until new evidence comes to light, and the team of detectives led by Detective Superintendent Peter Boyd (played by Trevor Eve) reopens the investigation. The case is a challenging one, as most of the people involved in the murder are either dead or have disappeared. The detectives, however, are determined to put the pieces of the puzzle together and bring Sarah's killer to justice.

As the investigation progresses, the team uncovers a web of deception, lies, and corruption that leads to some surprising revelations. They discover that Sarah's friends and family were hiding secrets, some of which may have played a role in her death. They also uncover ties to a notorious criminal gang, and it becomes clear that Sarah's murder was not a random act of violence.

Meanwhile, the detectives must also contend with their own personal demons and struggles. Boyd is haunted by his past mistakes and his inability to maintain a stable home life. Meanwhile, Dr. Grace Foley (played by Sue Johnston) is dealing with her own traumas, including the death of her son and her ongoing battle with alcoholism.

The Blind Beggar: Part 1 is a gripping and atmospheric episode that draws the viewer into the dark and gritty world of London's criminal underbelly. The cinematography is moody and atmospheric, emphasizing the dark alleys and seedy bars of the city's East End. The plot is complex and multifaceted, with multiple suspects and red herrings to keep the viewer guessing until the very end.

The ensemble cast, led by Eve and Johnston, are excellent, bringing depth and nuance to their respective characters. The episode also features strong supporting performances from the likes of Holly Aird as DCI Claire Ashby and Wil Johnson as DS Spencer Jordan.

Overall, The Blind Beggar: Part 1 is a standout episode of Waking the Dead's first season, combining a compelling mystery with nuanced character development and a moody, atmospheric style. Fans of crime dramas and police procedurals are sure to be drawn in by its twists and turns, while those looking for something more introspective will appreciate its exploration of the detectives' personal struggles.