Plot: What’s it about?
As World War II continues to unfold, things in England still move on as usual, including criminal activities. In Hastings, the man who tries to keep the peace is Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle (Michael Kitchen), who is joined by Detective Sergeant Paul Milner (Anthony Howell) and driver Samantha Stewart (Honeysuckle Weeks). Milner left the police force to enlist, but suffered the loss of a leg and came back to the police, at the request of Foyle. Stewart’s main task is to drive, but she has a keen mind and does a lot to help in the cases. The war has a huge impact on Hastings, as ripples reach the small town and crimes seem to have gone up in its wake. Foyle has to investigate the usual crimes, large and small, but also ones spurred by the raging war, making his job that much more difficult. But no matter the added pressures, the streets must be kept safe and if anyone is up to the task, it would be Foyle and his loyal crew.
I had heard a lot of good things about Foyle’s War, but the fourth volume was the first time I’ve seen the series for myself. So I went back to previous sets to catch up and I am glad I did, as I was so much more involved. Even so, Foyle’s War is episodic, so while character evolve and some plot points return, the episodes are mostly self contained. I never felt lost or behind the times, but of course, I did want to go back and see what I had missed. The three episodes found here provided solid entertainment however, with great stories and excellent performances. Michael Kitchen is just tremendous and carries the show, this kind of program needs a strong lead and Kitchen is that and then some. I found Foyle’s War: Set 5 to be a great watch and not only is this release recommended, so are the previous volumes of this great series.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The transfers here look terrific and since each episode is on a separate disc, no compression issues arise. I found the episodes to be crisp and well detailed, but this is a recent show, so that is to be expected. So unlike some of the more dated detective shows from England, Foyle’s War isn’t soft at all, instead we have what looks like a brand new show, as it should. The colors look bright and natural, while contrast is smooth and accurate at all times. This is about as good it gets, so kudos to Acorn on this one.
Audio: How does it sound?
This show has basic audio needs, with no call for flash or dynamic presence. As such, the included stereo soundtrack is more than capable. The sound effects are well handled and sound natural, while the music has life, but isn’t as expansive as you’d find on some other material. The real focus is on dialogue and that’s how it should be, as vocals are the main element here. I found the dialogue to be clean and clear, with no errors to report. Not the kind of soundtrack that will have you on the edge of your seat, but one that is true to the material.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release includes a behind the scenes featurette, interviews with cast members, cast filmographies, and a look at the real life Foyle.
