THE ENGLISH
BBC Two, 9pm
Hugo Blick’s (The Honourable Woman, Black Earth Rising) magnificent Western is shaping up to be one of the year’s finest TV programmes, filled with intrigue, great performances and stunning landscapes courtesy of Spanish cinematographer Arnau Valls Colomer. Set in the 1890s on the sprawling Western frontier, this third episode takes us to Powder River, Wyoming, where
Sheriff Robert Marshall (Stephen Rea) is still investigating the mysterious murder-suicide of an ex-cavalry soldier and his stay-at-home wife. Was it a pact between the pair, or was foul play involved? In this dark tale of morality, or a lack thereof, suspicions are pointing firmly at the latter. Elsewhere, Eli (Chaske Spencer) waits at the Clarkes’ farm for grieving and vengeful mother Cornelia (Emily
Blunt, on fantastic leading form) to return, but is shocked to find out that the Clarkes’ business is not as innocent as it may first have appeared. It’s a confusing tale at times: with this many characters and locations on display, it commands your full attention. But this is an artistic triumph definitely worth your time (and effort). Episodes will continue to be broadcast weekly, with the full series also available now on iplayer.