Ep 14. Something Nasty in the Nursery

The Avengers season 5 episode 14, titled "Something Nasty in the Nursery," follows the dynamic duo of John Steed and Emma Peel as they investigate a strange occurrence in a local nursery. The episode starts off with the kidnapping of a wealthy businessman's son from his school. Steed and Peel are called in to investigate the case, and they quickly find that the nursery where the child was taken from is not all it seems.

The pair begin to suspect that the kidnapping is part of a larger conspiracy. As they delve deeper into the case, they discover a sinister plot to brainwash children and turn them into assassins. To make matters worse, they also uncover a connection between the kidnapper and some of the top politicians in the country.

As the investigation progresses, Steed and Peel find themselves in increasingly dangerous situations. They come face-to-face with trained child assassins and even end up trapped in the nursery itself. But with their quick wits and resourcefulness, they manage to keep one step ahead of their enemies and uncover the truth behind the nefarious plot.

One of the standout features of this episode is its focus on the use of children as assassins. It's a theme that adds a layer of darkness and unsettling unease to the proceedings that is unusual for a show of this era. Moreover, the concept of brainwashing children to do evil is a disturbing one that is sure to leave viewers on edge.

The episode's direction is also impressive, with strong visuals and clever camera work that enhances the atmosphere. There are some particularly memorable scenes involving the child assassins that make excellent use of lighting and camera angles to create a sense of foreboding and claustrophobia.

As with most episodes of The Avengers, the banter and chemistry between Steed and Peel is a highlight. They play off each other well, and their quick wit and derring-do are a joy to watch. Additionally, the range of settings and scenarios adds to the show's charm. From a nursery filled with dangerous secrets to a tense showdown in a country estate, Something Nasty in the Nursery keeps viewers on their toes.

Overall, Something Nasty in the Nursery is a standout episode of The Avengers. Its dark themes and high-stakes action make it a must-watch for fans of the show. Additionally, the quality of its writing, direction, and performances is a testament to why the series remains a beloved classic of British television.