Ep 1. Spare Parts

New Tricks is a British police procedural television series that follows a team of retired police officers who solve cold cases for the Metropolitan Police Service's Unsolved Crime and Open Case Squad (UCOS). Season 5 episode 1 is titled "Spare Parts" and revolves around the peculiar case of a murdered electronics expert.

The episode begins with UCOS investigating the murder of an expert electronics engineer, Peter Thames. Thames was found dead under strange circumstances, as his body was found near a river, and he had received severe head injuries. However, his van, which contained several electronic parts, was missing.

As the team of retired detectives digs deeper into the case, they discover that Thames's expertise was in designing and building robots. They also learn that Thames was in the process of preparing a prototype robot, which could act as an assistant to elderly people. However, Thames's business partner, Billy Kemble, had a different idea for the robot's use; he wanted to use the robot for military purposes.

The detectives soon find themselves tangled in a web of corruption and murder as they try to understand the motive behind Thames's death. Was Thames killed because of his involvement in the robot project, or was it something else entirely?

The characters of UCOS are all given their respective tasks, which they excel at, to uncover any leads that could help solve the case. The show is known for its humor and witty one-liners, as the detectives show off their old-fashioned detective skills, while being imposed on by the new laws and regulations. While the show is not intended to be purely comedic, the humor is used as a subtle tool that lightens up the mood.

The detectives are a varied bunch, each having their unique traits, putting their years of experience to good use. Detective Superintendent Sandra Pullman is the leader of the group; she is determined to solve the mystery behind Thames's death. Gerry Standing is the laid back character in the group, who never takes anything too seriously. Brian Lane is the analytical one, who prefers to sit behind a computer screen, digging up information and facts. Jack Halford is the father figure of the group and often delves into his past, reminiscing about his old days in the force.

One of the more outstanding moments of the episode is when Brian Lane tries to implant a tracking device on his boss Pullman, to keep track of her movements. His clumsy attempts succeed in providing some comic relief in an otherwise serious case.

The episode ends with the detectives finally getting close to solving the case, but not without some setbacks. As always, the show ends with a satisfying resolution to the case but leaves viewers curious as to what the next episode will hold.

Overall, New Tricks season 5 episode 1 "Spare Parts" is an episode that keeps viewers on edge, with its intriguing storyline, witty humor, and balanced pacing. The characters are well-developed, and the case is thrilling from start to finish. The show's unique blend of humor and crime-solving make it an enjoyable watch for audiences interested in both genres.