Ep 1. Resurrection Men

John Rebus is back for the fifth season of the gripping crime drama show "Rebus," and the first episode, titled "Resurrection Men," does not disappoint. The episode opens with the chilling discovery of a body in an abandoned building in Edinburgh. The victim has been tortured and left for dead, and it quickly becomes clear that this is not a simple case of murder.

Enter John Rebus (played by Ken Stott), a gritty and grizzled detective with a reputation for solving the toughest cases. As he delves into the investigation, Rebus uncovers a web of secrets and lies that stretches back decades. It seems that the victim, like many in this city, has a murky past involving drugs, gangs, and violence. But who could be responsible for such a brutal attack? And why?

As Rebus follows the clues, he must navigate the tricky politics and rivalries of the Edinburgh police department. His old nemesis, Chief Superintendent "Farmer" Watson (played by Ron Donachie), is still causing him headaches, and a new boss, Assistant Chief Constable James Gillespie (John Hannah), has his own ideas about how to handle the case. Meanwhile, Rebus's loyal sidekick, Detective Sergeant Siobhan Clarke (Claire Price), is dealing with her own personal demons as she tries to assist in the investigation.

One of the highlights of this episode is the introduction of a new character, Morris Gerald "Big Ger" Cafferty (Tommy Flanagan). Cafferty is a notorious gangster with a history of violence, and he has a long-standing grudge against Rebus. Their scenes together crackle with tension, and Flanagan delivers a memorable performance as the charming but deadly criminal.

As the episode progresses, the stakes get higher and the tension builds. Rebus and his team must work against the clock to solve the case before the killer strikes again. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, from a washed-up rock star to a fanatical cult leader. Each one adds to the complex tapestry of Edinburgh's criminal underworld, and Rebus must use all his wit and cunning to stay one step ahead.

The production values on "Rebus" are top-notch, with stunning location shots of Edinburgh and a moody, atmospheric score. The writing is tight and suspenseful, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats throughout. But it is the performances that truly shine, with Stott delivering a nuanced and layered portrayal of Rebus. He is a flawed hero, a man haunted by his past and driven by his determination to see justice done.

Overall, "Resurrection Men" is a gripping start to season five of "Rebus." It sets the tone for what promises to be an intense and satisfying season of crime drama. Whether you are a fan of the books by author Ian Rankin or simply enjoy a good whodunit, this is a show that is not to be missed.