Who Killed Harry Field?

This is one of my favourites, definitely one of the better episodes. if they hadn't made Promised Land, then this would have had my pick for the best episode of the 5th series, instead it has to be content with an extremely close second, with Second Time Around closely behind. The episode has some truly beautiful scenery, and definitely one of the more intriguing Morse plots, and it isn't even based on any of the books by Colin Dexter. An episode like Last Bus To Woodstock is still very intriguing, but compared to other Morse episodes it feels too bleak. John Thaw and Kevin Whately are excellent in the title roles, and they are almost overshadowed by the scene-stealing performance by Freddie Jones as the victim's father. I found his final scenes, not only moving but also the highlight of the episode. Geraldine James is also excellent as Helen, and also worth noting are roles from Ronald Pickup and Vania Vilers. All in all, a truly fantastic entry to the best crime drama series ever. 10/10 Bethany Cox.

I have quoted below my favourite scene from this episode. It is beautifully acted and very emotional.

If you didn't pay attention to it, go back, watch it. This is all you need, to understand Morse's and Lewis' relationship.

"Do you think l'm good enough to be recommended for promotion?

I'm sorry to tell you, Lewis, that the answer to that.. is yes.

Thank you, sir."

This is for me one of the best Morse episodes.Freddie Jones is excellent as the father of the murder victim and he shows what a good actor he is. His scenes with John Thaw especially at the end are brilliant. Overall the story keeps you guessing until the end, with various twists in the plot. It also gives a good insight into the world of art.The scenery is fine and the whole episode has a "feel" about it, i've seen it several times and never tier of it. For Morse fans this episode has it all; Oxfordshire countryside, real ale, sophisticated suspects, stately home, an eccentric victim and lots of red herrings to keep you guessing.

As this show progressed, we get to see a sophistication that is marvelous. An unbalanced painter is found dead. We have been made privy to his drinking and dalliance; we are also treated to his talent. The problem for him and eventually for Morse is that he is, Kris Kristofferson would say, a "walking contradiction." His excesses and questionable virtues, led to a great deal of anger. His talents also led to reprisals from some very powerful people. His wife has a heavy burden but is damaged herself. We get an education in what is in the artist's soul and also into the commercial world of art. Excellent.

One of the best Morse episodes which I have just noted has a neat visual trick to enhance the idea that all you see is not always genuine. I have watched this episode 6 or 7 times over the years and only on the last viewing noticed that the scene where Morse and Lewis confront Harry senior in the Oxford art gallery shows Harry senior filmed apparently in the same spot with an old master painting behind him but each time the camera cuts between Harry and Morse or Lewis there is a different painting behind him! I counted 5 changes of background paintings and Harry senior had not moved nor had the camera angle altered. Clever way to highlight the recurring theme of the story.