Review: Murdoch Mysteries “The Spy Who Loved Murdoch”

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Warning: Post contains minor spoilers

“Murdoch Mysteries” season 12 episode 5 offers a classic Murdochian adventure complete with fan-favorite characters, an engaging whodunit, and classic Murdoch moments. “The Spy Who Loved Murdoch” opens with the death of a French diplomat,  Mr. Vidal (Louis Paquette) who is found dead by Terrence Meyers (Peter Keleghan). Unfortunately, Mr. Vidal is in Toronto to sign a treaty, the Triple Entente between France, Russian, and Great Britain.

To save the treaty, Meyers hatches a plan where Det. William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) impersonates Vidal. Aiding Murdoch is Vidal’s attache, Régine Rivière (Louise Monot). In addition to acting as Vidal, Murdoch must grapple with the constantly bickering Rivière and Meyers. Though he’s mostly successful under the guise of Vidal, Murdoch’s cover is almost blown when he meets Inspector Brackenreid (Thomas Craig) and his wife Margaret Brackenreid (Arwen Humphreys) while masquerading as Mr. Vidal.

Meanwhile, Constable George Crabtree (Jonny Harris) enjoys a weekend off, but spends it on housework conveniently near Mrs. Hall (Jennifer De Lucia) It seems quite clear that Mrs. Hall and George Crabtree are poised for a romance of sorts. Hopefully, unlike his past slew of lovers, a potential courtship of Mrs. Hall works in his favor.

Observations:

“The Spy Who Loved Murdoch” might not carry the political commentary of “Murdoch Without Borders,” but it’s a marvelous series entry which reminds audiences why “Murdoch Mysteries” is in the midst of season 12. It’s a pleasure seeing cunning spy Terrence Meyers back in Toronto. Plus, the addition of Rivière lends a new dynamic, especially hearing the pair argue over what “happened in Prague.”

As per usual, George invents the term staycation. Sort of. “You have to think of it as a stay at home vacation, or as I call it, a homecation.” The many times Crabtree’s credited with inventing something are among my favorite moments throughout the series. Five episodes into “Murdoch Mysteries” season 12, and finally Mrs. Brackenreid reappears. Arwen Humphries has been notably absent thus far, and it’s a delight having her return. Although, Mrs. Brackenreid doesn’t get nearly enough screentime.

Seeing Murdoch undercover proves exciting, and lends a fresh vibe. Initially, when called by Meyers to impersonate the deceased Mr. Vidal, Murdoch refuses. “We don’t look anything alike…I can’t impersonate a political figure,” Murdoch protests. “Why not? You’ve impersonated an anarchist,”  Meyers replies. “And a workman,” Julia adds. “And a homosexual!”

The title an obvious James Bond reference, there are loads of easter eggs including 007 riffs and “Pink Panther” quips. One scene finds Rivière showing Murdoch a series of spy tools, including a pocketwatch dart gun. It’s a clever element of the episode which contiunues the steampunk vibe throughout much of the series.

Unlike most of “Murdoch Mysteries” season 10 and season 11, “Murdoch Mysteries” season 12 feels predominantly comprised of self-contained episodes. That’s not necessarily a con, however. In fact, it’s a return to the roots of the show, which mostly featured mystery of the week narratives. Similarly, “Murdoch Mysteries” season 12 has seen little of Station House No. 4, completely missing in “The Spy Who Loved Murdoch.”

With Murdoch impersonating a dead French diplomat, Yannick Bisson gets the opportunity to flaunt his flawless French. It’s the most French spoken in a “Murdoch Mysteries” episode to date. Additionally, Helene Joy busts out her natural Australian accent in a brilliant scene where Dr. Ogden shows off her masterful improvisation skills. Ultimately, “Murdoch Mysteries” season 12 episode 5 “The Spy Who Loved Murdoch” is a gem of a “Murdoch Mysteries” episode.