Ep 2. Death and Dreams

In the second episode of the sixth season of Midsomer Murders, titled "Death and Dreams," the idyllic setting of Midsomer Life magazine is shattered when its acting editor Richard Rackham (played by Nick Fletcher) is found dead. His body is found in an unusual and disturbing pose in the middle of a crop circle, which raises questions about the identity and motives of the perpetrator.

DCI Tom Barnaby (played by John Nettles) and his team begin to investigate the case, starting with the magazine's current editor, Sylvia Lennard (played by Joanna David), who has recently taken over from Richard. With Richard's death potentially opening up the possibility for Sylvia to get the job full-time, suspicion falls on her relatively quickly. However, as the investigation progresses, other promising leads emerge, such as an infamous local artist who allegedly had a grudge against Richard and several other people close to the victim who may have had their own reasons for wanting him dead.

As the characters' motivations and backgrounds come under scrutiny, it becomes clear that Richard's death may be related to more than just his professional career. The episode explores themes such as personal ambition, artistic expression, and self-expression in a community where appearances are everything. The idyllic countryside setting provides an ironic backdrop to a darker, more tragic story where everyone has a secret to keep, and no one is quite who they seem.

Throughout the episode, Barnaby and his partner DS Dan Scott (played by John Hopkins) must navigate their way through a web of lies and deceptions while remaining mindful of the complex and interesting relationships between the characters. Through careful observation and deduction, they eventually unravel the truth behind Richard's death - and it's a conclusion that few viewers will see coming.

Overall, "Death and Dreams" is a smart, engaging, and suspenseful episode of Midsomer Murders that will keep viewers guessing right up until the dramatic conclusion. Its blend of humor, drama, and mystery make it a perfect addition to the show's impressive back catalog.