Ep 3. The Deer Hunters

Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope returns in the gripping third episode of season four of her self-titled show, Vera. This case begins in the quaint and seemingly peaceful village of Mardle, where a gamekeeper is shot dead while on his routine patrol. The case quickly takes a dark turn when Vera and her team discover that the victim was no ordinary gamekeeper, but was in fact, a well-known deer poacher.

As Vera digs deeper into the case, she uncovers a tangled web of deceit, betrayal and personal vendettas. The quieter life in Mardle is not as idyllic as it first appears, and the detectives soon learn that the victim had many enemies. As the case unfolds, suspects are revealed, and the team struggles to make sense of the tangled web of relationships and motives.

One suspect stands out: a local resident, seemingly reputable and well-liked, who was witnessed near the crime scene. But as Vera and her team delves deeper they realize that this suspect is just one piece of a larger puzzle, and they must connect the dots to find the killer.

Meanwhile, Vera is forced to face her own personal demons. Her father, who she hasn't seen for years, makes a surprise appearance in her life. Together they confront their painful past, and Vera is finally able to unearth the truth about her family history. This renewed sense of clarity guides her in the investigation, and ultimately helps her solve the case.

As is typical of this show, the storytelling in The Deer Hunters is superb. The characters are full of depth and nuance, with the villagers of Mardle being portrayed in intricate detail. Every character contributes something to the story, making for a satisfying and richly layered narrative. Additionally, the beautiful English countryside serves as an evocative backdrop, adding to the atmosphere of the show.

The acting in this episode is particularly exceptional. Brenda Blethyn, in the lead role of Vera, is magnificent as always. She brings a nuanced and affecting portrayal of a detective who is both tough and sensitive. Supporting cast members, including David Leon as Detective Sergeant Joe Ashworth, and Wunmi Mosaku as Detective Constable Holly Lawson, are equally excellent.

Overall, The Deer Hunters is an excellent episode of Vera that showcases the strength of the series. The storytelling is layered and nuanced, the acting is superb, and the setting is beautiful. Fans of the show will be satisfied, and newcomers will be drawn in by this gripping and well-crafted detective drama.