Ep 2. In Search of a Rose

In Search of a Rose is the second episode of the second season of Hamish Macbeth, a British comedy-drama television series. It originally aired on March 2, 1997, on BBC One.

The episode follows the charming and charismatic police constable Hamish Macbeth, portrayed by Robert Carlyle, as he investigates a bizarre death in the idyllic village of Lochdubh in the Scottish Highlands. The victim, a wealthy American tourist named Mary Foster, was found dead in her car after apparently suffering a heart attack. However, the circumstances of her death are suspicious, as she was traveling alone and the cause of her heart attack remains unknown.

As Hamish delves deeper into the case, he discovers that Mary's death might be connected to a local dispute over a rare and valuable rose that grows in the village. The flower, called the Lochdubh Beauty, is highly prized for its delicate petals and sweet fragrance, and several locals are vying for the honor of growing and displaying it at the upcoming flower show.

The main suspects in the case are Mary's estranged husband Max (played by Terence Beesley), a pompous and arrogant businessman who is obsessed with winning the rose competition, and a reclusive elderly woman named Maisie (played by Hannah Gordon), who is rumored to have the only surviving specimen of the Lochdubh Beauty. Hamish also enlists the help of his friend and love interest, the independent and headstrong journalist Isobel Sutherland (played by Shirley Henderson), who is covering the flower show and has her own suspicions about the case.

As Hamish and Isobel start unraveling the complex web of secrets and lies surrounding the case, they encounter a host of quirky and colorful characters, from a flamboyant florist to a gruff but lovable gardener. They also face several obstacles, including a jealous rival constable, a meddling inspector, and a series of mishaps that threaten to derail their investigation.

In Search of a Rose is a classic Hamish Macbeth episode that showcases the series' signature blend of humor, mystery, and romance. It features stunning scenery, witty dialogue, and a cast of characters that are both charming and eccentric. It also highlights the themes of community, tradition, and the importance of nature in the Scottish Highlands.

Overall, In Search of a Rose is a delightful and entertaining episode that will captivate fans of the series and newcomers alike. It is a testament to the enduring popularity and appeal of Hamish Macbeth as a beloved cultural icon and a timeless classic of British television.