Ep 2. The Ties that Bind

The Ties that Bind is the second episode of the fourth season of Van der Valk. This British television series belongs to the crime genre, and it was first released in 1972. The show was remade in the late 2010s, featuring a new cast and updated storylines, but still preserving the essence of the original. Van der Valk follows the investigations of a team of detectives led by Piet Van der Valk, a brilliant and unconventional inspector who solves complex cases in the city of Amsterdam.

In The Ties that Bind, Van der Valk and his colleagues are called to investigate the murder of a local businessman named Reynier van Schouwen. Van Schouwen was found dead in his car, parked in a secluded area outside the city. The initial hypothesis is that he was a victim of robbery, as some of his valuables are missing, but the detectives soon discover that there might be more to the case than meets the eye.

The victim's family, composed of his wife, his son and daughter, and his brother-in-law, all seem to have something to hide. Van der Valk interviews each of them separately and uncovers some suspicious behavior and contradictory statements. He also discovers that Van Schouwen had some dubious business practices and was involved in several illegal activities. As the investigation progresses, the team begins to unravel a web of deceit and betrayal that involves the victim's closest relatives, business partners, and employees.

Throughout the episode, Van der Valk faces the challenge of balancing his duty as a detective with his personal life. He tries to keep his relationship with Lucienne, a journalist who often collaborates with the police, separate from his work, but she insists on getting involved in the case. Meanwhile, he has to deal with his colleague Julia Dahlman, who is under investigation for her conduct in a previous case. Van der Valk's unorthodox methods and unconventional personality clash with the bureaucratic procedures and hierarchical structure of the police force, leading to some tense moments between him and his superiors.

The Ties that Bind features strong performances by the ensemble cast, led by Marc Warren as Van der Valk. Warren's portrayal of the iconic character is both charismatic and enigmatic, conveying a sense of intelligence and wit that sets him apart from other TV detectives. Maimie McCoy, as Lucienne, brings a dynamic energy to the show, balancing her romantic subplot with her investigative skills. Elliot Barnes-Worrell, as Van der Valk's trusted assistant Job Cloovers, provides a reliable and grounded presence that complements Warren's flamboyant style.

The plot of the episode combines elements of classic whodunits with modern themes of corporate crime and family intrigue. The investigation takes unexpected turns, leading to a surprising conclusion that ties all the loose ends together. The script, written by Chris Murray and directed by Sydney Macartney, creates a tense and atmospheric atmosphere that keeps the audience engaged throughout the hour-long runtime.

In summary, The Ties that Bind is a solid entry in the Van der Valk series, showcasing the strengths of the cast and crew. The episode provides a glimpse into the complex world of crime investigation, where personal and professional lives merge, and hidden motives and secrets abound. It is a must-see for fans of the crime genre and those who enjoy a good mystery with a twist.