Inspector Morse - Death of the Self

Rating:
Summary: Villains in Vicenza
Review: This entry in the Morse series is unusual, if for no other reason than the fact that the episode is filmed on location in Italy. An English woman suffers a traumatic death in a forest near Vincenza while involved in a pseudo-psychological program offered by Russell Clark, a professional con man who was once incarcerated in England for defrauding the elderly. The official Italian verdict is accidental death; however, remarks made by the dead woman's husband during the Oxford inquest hearing raises the possibility that the death resulted from foul play. Given the doubt surrounding the circumstances of the woman's death and the criminal history of the program sponsor, Morse and Lewis are sent to Italy to investigate the matter. Morse, who was chiefly responsible for building the criminal case which sent Clark to prison, is instantly suspicious regarding the woman's death and highly cynical concerning the value of Clark's self-help courses. In any event, Morse soon discovers that at least two course participants had possible motives to kill the English lady; however, he is genuinely frustrated by the fact that the Italian police are dismissive of this "new evidence" and are also unwilling (seemingly) to consider the possibility that Clark may be involved in something sinister or at least fraudulent. Despite his frustrations, however, Morse does have the opportunity to meet one of his favorite female opera performers-- a lady who recently completed the Clark course to overcome stage fright and resume her career. In fact, a low level romantic attraction develops between the two of them. His relationship with Nicole, the lure of the beautiful scenery, and his appreciation of Italian culture represent distractions-- but do not impede Morse's efforts to investigate the woman's death. Ultimately, Morse's judgement about the truly villainous nature of Clark's character and activities is vindicated, but on a basis which has nothing to do with the woman's death in the woods. In the final analysis, we find that Clark is once more involved in fraudulent intrigues, and that he is willing to influence a lady toward suicide to protect his schemes. The role of Clark as charming and convincing con man is exceptionally well played by Michael Kitchens. This episode unfolds at a leisurely pace and in many ways is a departure from the usual Morse mystery. Even Sergeant Lewis, who is initially reluctant to spend two weeks in Italy and anxious to get home to particpate in his son's sports day at school, soon becomes enthusiastic about nailing Clark and also succumbs to the charm of Italy. One humorous scene features Lewis as the dance partner of an American tourist, at a party which apparently lasts all night. This episode is satisfying but not spectacular; nevertheless, it is worth viewing for the change of pace and for the exposure to the marvelous scenery of rural and urban Italy.