In the heart of Toronto, the year is 1912, and the city is abuzz with the celebration of Charles Dickens' birth. The third episode of Murdoch Mysteries' eighteenth season, aptly titled "What the Dickens?!", takes us on a literary-themed murder mystery that would have made the great novelist himself proud. As Constable George Crabtree and his wife Effie, dressed as Tiny Tim and Marley's ghost, join the festivities, they find themselves at the center of a real-life whodunit that threatens to overshadow the joyous occasion.
The episode opens with a lively gathering of Dickens enthusiasts, each character embodying the spirit of the Victorian era. Crabtree, ever the enthusiastic amateur sleuth, and Effie, with her keen intuition, are the perfect audience for the night's events. However, the revelry is cut short when the host of the celebration is found dead under mysterious circumstances. The sudden death casts a shadow over the party, and the guests, who moments ago were lost in the world of Dickens, are now potential suspects in a murder case.
Detective William Murdoch, with his unconventional methods, is called to the scene. His approach to solving crimes, which includes fingerprinting, blood testing, and trace evidence, is a stark contrast to the traditional methods preferred by his superior, Inspector Brackenreid. Murdoch's scientific acumen is put to the test as he must navigate the web of secrets and motives that seem to plague this gathering of literary aficionados.
As the investigation unfolds, historical references enrich the narrative, providing a deeper context to the events. The episode subtly weaves in the social issues of the time, such as the growing international control of drugs, which is reflected in the episode's plot. The use of "Devil's Breath," or scopolamine, as a plot device is not only a nod to the historical use of the drug but also a testament to Murdoch's ability to stay one step ahead in using cutting-edge science to solve crime.
The introduction of the Geographic Probability Sensor (G.P.S.) adds a new dimension to Murdoch's investigative arsenal. This invention, a precursor to modern surveillance technology, is a testament to the show's ability to blend historical accuracy with imaginative foresight. It also serves as a reminder that Murdoch's methods, while considered eccentric in his time, are the foundation of modern forensic science.
The episode also explores the personal quirks and character development of the main cast. Crabtree's seasickness and his attachment to his own pillow add a touch of humor and humanity to the story. Meanwhile, the professional growth of Murdoch is evident as his inventions earn him a dedicated room in the station house, a sign of respect and recognition from his peers.
"A place for your amazing inventions and for all the new ones yet to come," Inspector Choi remarks, acknowledging Murdoch's contributions. This moment marks a turning point for Murdoch, as his unorthodox methods are no longer met with skepticism but are instead embraced as essential tools in the fight against crime.
In conclusion, "What the Dickens?!" is more than just a murder mystery; it is a celebration of the human ingenuity and the spirit of inquiry that drives the pursuit of justice. The episode masterfully blends fact and fiction, history and literature, to create a compelling narrative that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Charles Dickens and the innovative mind of Detective William Murdoch. As the final pieces of the puzzle fall into place, viewers are left with a satisfying resolution and a deeper appreciation for the art of detection in the early 20th century.