Foyle's War, Episode One: The German Woman

Set during World War II Foyle's War follows the duties and life of a fictional police officer Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle , played by Michael Kitchen. In Episode One, The German Woman, we're introduced to Foyle as he attempts to find a way out of his duties in Sussex, Foyle feels his skills could be put to better use during the war effort and the episode opens up with him pressing to have his request for reassignment refused. We quickly learn why his abilities as a Detective are required during this difficult time in Europeon history.

Set in 1940 this episode skillfully weaves together Foyle's dislike of his duties, the lack of man power available to the police during this time, and the way those of German descent were treated during the war. Many men and women, who had fled from the Nazi's, ended up being interned for the duration of the war, some in fact shipped to the Isle of Man. However in this episode the hatred of the Nazi's and general distrust toward the German people is used as a skillfully woven backdrop for a murder steeped in family betrayal, money kept in trust, a young heiress and the day to day secrecies that covered what we now see as every day jobs.

In Foyle's war you're taken back to a time when blackout's and rationing were common place. A time where women were just stepping forward to work along side of men outside of the farms, and taking active roles in the military. Often as secretaries, drivers, nurses and mess hands. Whilst these roles would be second nature today, during World War II it was a mark of the changes going on all around the country, and indeed the world. This change in the role of women is featured in Foyle's War in the guise of his new Military Transport Corp Driver, Samantha Stewart played by Honeysuckle Weeks.

Another key character that we're introduced to in this episode is Foyle's new aide, Paul Milner played by Anthony Howell, a former police Sergeant who was badly wounded at Trondheim, losing a leg in the process. The offer of work by Foyle is underplayed, but is obviously not just a case of Foyle needing an assistant, but a hand that helps Milner on his road to emotionally recovering from his injury.

The character of Foyle himself is skillfully underplayed. He's a quiet, even tempered man who doesn't raise his voice but carries with him a sense of power. Even when confronted with hatred and bigotry he keeps a calm head and deals with the situation.

The story comes together nicely and without giving away the ending I can say that the threads of the sub plots are woven through the story without swamping it. The ending is skillfully played through leaving you wondering what you would have done if you had been in Foyle's shoes. Throughout the plot you're introduced to historical facts that provide an indepth view on how people thought and behaved during World War II in England. From the petty hatreds to fears which cropped up in daily life. The back drop of the war does not detract from the investigation but instead provides key plot points and by the end of the movie you quickly realize that you've not only enjoyed a murder mystery, but a history lesson as well.

I strongly recommend Foyle's War, The German Woman, to anyone who enjoys English period drama's, or has an interest in World War II and give this episode a 5 star rating.