Review: Murdoch Mysteries ‘Murder Checks In’

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Warning: Post contains spoilers

During “Murdoch Mysteries” season 14 episode 5 “Murder Checks In,” the titular Detective William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) swaps his trademark fedora for a cowboy hat for some outdoor adventuring with his wife, Dr. Julia Ogden (Hélène Joy). What’s intended to be a relaxing getaway to the Blackhurst Inn is rudely interrupted when one of the other inn guests, Derek Ferdinand (Ken Hall) is murdered. Complicating the matter, everyone from the flirty Pricilla Bantam (Deborah Hay) to the shady professor Leamington (Ryan Kelly), Blackhurst Inn stablehand George Collins (Tim Dowler-Coltman), and even Ferdinand’s own daughter Clair (Sydney Meyer) appears as likely a suspect as the next. With the nearest constabulary located a half a day’s ride away, Det. Murdoch and Dr. Ogden become the de facto investigators.

There’s a fun Agatha Christie sort of vibe to the case. Most of the Blackhurst Inn guests appear to have motive. “Ordinarily, I’d begin by asking who would wish the victim dead,” Murdoch laments. “But in Mr. Ferdinand’s Case, it may be easier to ask who didn’t wish him harm,” Julia adds. Previously, Mr. Ferdinand, an art collector, reported a stolen painting and was no less difficult to deal with under those circumstances than on the glamping trip.

Meanwhile, back in Toronto, Constables George Crabtree (Jonny Harris) and Henry Higgins (Lachlan Murdoch) discover a body buried in a community garden. Inspector Thomas Brackenreid (Thomas Craig) charges Crabtree and Higgins with solving the murder. The victim, Miss Emily Bishop, appears to have no enemies, seemingly well-liked by her super and co-workers. However, Crabtree and Higgins have a major breakthrough in the case when the suspect’s motive and laziness, paralleling Henry’s own lack of motivation, becomes apparent.

Toronto City Coroner Miss Violet Hart (Shanice Banton) continues her relationship with Arthur Carmichael (James Graham). Arthur takes Miss Hart on a date to a ritzy restaurant despite Violet’s protestations that, because of her race, the eatery will refuse to seat them. Carmichael dismisses her concerns, explaining that the power of money can overcome that obstacle. While Hart and Carmichael are seated, the condescending waiter refuses to serve them, claiming that the restaurant is out of all food. Arthur and Violet return after Carmichael purchases the dining establishment. It’s yet unclear if Arthur’s courtship of Miss Hart is genuine or a ploy related to the death of Lucille Palmer, a murder in which Arthur was originally the prime suspect. For Violet’s sake, let’s hope it’s actual romance.

“Murdoch Mysteries” S14E05 “Murder Checks In” is unique in that concurrent murder cases take shape. Julia and William team up while Higgins and Crabtree take lead on the other investigation. In both instances, the pairings are delightful. The rapport and camaraderie between Henry and George is simply charming with a good mix of humor as well as sentimental friendship. Likewise, Murdoch and Ogden make an outstanding sleuthing duo and romantic couple. The Agatha Christie vibes are strong, it’s fun to see a returning character in the crotchety Derek Ferdinand, and the character relationships are more enjoyable than ever.