Ep 4. The Heritage

Wallander season 4 episode 4, named "The Heritage," follows our protagonist, Kurt Wallander, as he investigates a series of murders that all seem to be connected to a wealthy, aristocratic family. The episode is set in the stunning countryside of Skåne, Sweden, where old money and class still hold immense power and influence.

The first victim is a young woman who has just returned to her ancestral family home, which has been unoccupied for years. She is found dead, with no clear signs of what caused her death, except for a strange symbol carved into her skin. Wallander quickly realizes that the symbol is associated with the wealthy family, the von Enkes, who have a long and troubling history of secrets and scandals.

As Wallander delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of lies, betrayals, and family feuds that stretch back generations. He also discovers that the von Enkes are not the only ones with secrets worth protecting. The investigation becomes increasingly complex and personal as Wallander is forced to confront his own past and his complicated relationship with his own father.

The tension in the episode is heightened by the beautiful and eerie landscapes of Skåne, which add a sense of isolation and danger to the proceedings. The von Enke family estate, with its dark corners and hidden passages, becomes a character in its own right, adding to the sense of mystery and dread that permeates the episode.

The performances in "The Heritage" are particularly strong, led by Kenneth Branagh as Wallander. He delivers a powerful, nuanced portrayal of a man who is haunted by his past and struggling with the weight of his own legacy. The supporting cast, including Sarah Smart as Wallander's colleague Anne-Britt Hoglund and Jeany Spark as the von Enke family matriarch, are all equally impressive, adding layers of complexity and emotion to their characters.

Overall, "The Heritage" is a gripping, atmospheric episode that explores themes of family, identity, and the lengths we will go to protect our legacy. It is a fitting conclusion to the fourth and final season of Wallander, a series that has left an indelible mark on the world of television crime drama.