Customer Reviews
'Midsomer Murders' Best Episode? - By: , 11 Jun 2004 
'Midsomer Murders' has never been a favourite of the critics in the way that 'Inspector Morse' was. However now about to begin filming on its eighth series 'Midsomer Murders' remains the most popular drama series (apart from the soaps) on TV.
'Garden of Death' was the opening story of the fourth series. Once again the art of the casting director is in evidence as they artfully blend seasoned veterans like Belinda Lang with emerging performers such as Sarah Alexander & stage actors like Victoria Hamilton.
The murders are well staged & the direction by Peter Smith (who also directed the Alan Bleasdale film 'No Surrender') is masterful. Tension is created & humour emerges from the characters & the situation, it isn't forced onto it. A point that often mars the excellent series 'Jonathan Creek'.
The two leads, John Nettles & Daniel Casey give their usual subtle & insightful performances. They display real human foibles & are alll the more endearing for it. Their partnership, now sadly broken apart, is a textbook example of how to lead a series while also giving the guest actors a chance to shine.
This is the episode of the series I find most satisfying, tense in places, with good characterisation, a satisfying mystery & a difficult to guess killer. Extras are a little scant (a commentary would be most welcome) but the strength of the episode alone makes this DVD an essential purchase for fans of the series.
