Ep 3. The Living Corpse

Alexandra Ehle is a French television drama series centred around a medical examiner, Alexandra Ehle, played by actress Julie Depardieu. The third episode of the first season, titled "The Living Corpse," revolves around a case that Ehle becomes involved in after she is asked to investigate the supposed death of a homeless man.

In the opening scene, Alexandra is called to a dumpster where the lifeless body of a homeless man is found by a garbage collector. The man is identified as Georges Lombard, a pensioner who had been living on the streets for years. Initially, the authorities believe the cause of death to be hypothermia, but Ehle suspects something more sinister may be at play.

As Ehle delves deeper into the case, she discovers that Lombard was known to have a drinking problem and was often seen heavily intoxicated. His reputation among the homeless community was that of a "living corpse," a term used to describe those who are so dependent on alcohol that their lives are in constant danger. However, Ehle is not convinced that Lombard's death was a simple case of alcoholism.

Ehle begins to investigate Lombard's background and discovers that he had a son who had recently left prison and was involved in a drug ring. In a bid to locate him, Ehle pays a visit to Lombard's ex-wife, who reluctantly divulges his son's whereabouts. Meanwhile, a medical examination reveals that Lombard's death was not due to hypothermia, as initially suspected, but the result of an acute intoxication.

As Ehle closes in on the truth, she realizes that Lombard's death was not an accident but murder. Her investigation leads her to a group of wealthy individuals who were involved in the drug ring, and one of whom was responsible for Lombard's untimely death. Through her forensic expertise and determination, Ehle is able to solve the case and bring the killer to justice.

"The Living Corpse" is a compelling episode in the Alexandra Ehle series, showcasing the intricate and complex nature of forensic investigation and the dedication required to uncover the truth. The episode is well-paced, and the tension builds as Ehle closes in on the identity of the killer. The character of Alexandra Ehle is well-developed, and Julie Depardieu delivers a strong performance, conveying both her intellect as a forensic examiner and her compassion towards the victim. Overall, "The Living Corpse" is a strong addition to the series and a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.