The penultimate episode of Ridley's second season, entitled "Fool For Love Part 1," unfurls a mesmerizing tale that plumbs the depths of love's complexities, power imbalances, and the treacherous veneer of appearances. As the stage is set against the throbbing pulse of an underground rave in Allerton, the episode bursts forth with a beat that electrifies the atmosphere, mirroring Ava Tunstall's (Lauren McQueen's) vibrant presence as she weaves through the sea of revelers. The euphoria is a stark prelude to the looming shadows that soon encroach.
The scene abruptly shifts to a solemn family milestone, where Sarita Grant (Sudha Bhuchar), exuding a blend of pride and tradition, announces the betrothal of her son, Oliver Grant (Rishi Rian), to Amelia Mellor (Ellise Chappell). This announcement exposes the sprawling Grant family business empire and the impending shift in power's throne, with Oliver designated as Sarita's heir apparent. The announcement elicits a tapestry of emotions, particularly from Oliver's brother, Lewis Grant (whose character remains unnamed), whose intense gaze hints at untold tales simmering beneath the surface.
The narrative takes a sinister turn when Oliver receives a cryptic phone call, abruptly severing his connection with the festivities. The suddenness of his departure piques curiosity, leaving the audience pondering the gravity of the situation. The night's festivities descend into tragedy when Charlie (Oliver Wellington), the next morning, stumbles upon Oliver's lifeless form within the same walls that had hosted the previous night's revelry. This grim discovery triggers a domino effect of revelations, secrets, and lies that will propel the investigation into uncharted territories.
Detective Inspector Carol Farman (Bronagh Waugh), in a rare glimpse into her domestic life, is portrayed as she prepares breakfast for her son, Jack Farman. This tender exchange serves as a poignant reminder of the humanity that transcends the professional masks worn by these characters. Carol's unwavering commitment to her job coexists with a palpable sense of guilt over the sacrifices made to her personal life, particularly her time with her son. This intricate subplot imbues Carol's character with depth and relatability, transcending her role as a mere detective.
The investigation into Oliver's demise is spearheaded by DI Carol Farman and her partner, Alex Ridley (Adrian Dunbar), whose rapport is a harmonious blend of professional rigor and personal camaraderie. As they meticulously reconstruct the events of that fateful night, they uncover a labyrinth of deceit that ensnares those closest to Oliver. The discovery of drugs adorned with a green frog logo at the crime scene introduces a nefarious link to Manchester's underworld drug trade, deepening the mystery.
The narrative takes a personal toll on Carol when she and Ridley confront Amelia about Oliver's abrupt exit from their engagement celebration. Amelia's claim that Oliver departed in response to a work-related call falls flat, especially in light of the subsequent revelation of his hidden drug addiction. The fact that Lewis was aware of Oliver's struggles and sought to oust him from the company adds another layer of intrigue, hinting at a potential motive for murder.
Moreover, the introduction of Charlie, another character embroiled in the rave's aftermath and found in possession of drugs, adds yet another dimension to the investigation. Charlie's fear of being implicated in a criminal act compels him to reluctantly collaborate with the investigation, dropping hints about a go-kart track that could serve as a hub for drug dealers, further tangling the web of intrigue.
As the investigation delves deeper, the team unravels a tangled web of prepaid phone calls, casting a veil of intrigue over the already complex case. The revelation that Ava, the enigmatic rave orchestrator, harbors a connection to Oliver ignites a new spark of curiosity. Ridley's confrontation with Ava, where he confronts her about the drugs and her possible knowledge of Oliver's presence, is met with a facade of innocence, only serving to darken the already murky waters.
The episode reaches its fever pitch when Doctor Wendy Newstone, brilliantly portrayed by Georgie Glen, sheds light on the gruesome details of Oliver's murder. The discovery of a 9mm shell casing amidst the chaos and Oliver's fatal cocktail of cocaine paint a grim narrative of his final hours. The stunning revelation that Lewis' DNA is intertwined with that shell casing, a bolt from the blue, directly implicates him in the heinous crime.
The closing act of the episode is a flurry of confrontations and revelations, leaving viewers perched on the edge of their seats, hearts racing. The arrest of Jordan King, played with fervor by Joshua J Parker, for drug possession and his link to the go-kart track, adds another intricate layer to the puzzle. The palpable tension between Carol and her superior, DCI Paul Goodwin, over the case's handling and the safety of her beloved son, Jack, echoes through every frame.
"Fool For Love" stands as a masterpiece in narrative weaving, intricately intertwining personal and professional lives in unexpected harmonies. It is a testament to the show's captivating prowess, where each revelation births more questions than it answers, keeping viewers enthralled. The performances are nothing short of exceptional, with each actor meticulously carving out the nuances of their characters. The cinematography is a masterstroke, capturing the grimy essence of the underground rave scene and the stark juxtaposition with the Grant family's opulence, enriching the narrative tapestry.
As the credits roll, viewers are left with a profound sense of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this intricate mystery. The mystery of Oliver's murder remains unsolved, dangling like a tantalizing carrot, while the personal tangles of the characters deepen their investment in the story. Ridley Series 2, Episode 5, is an absolute must-see for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike, offering a heart-pounding journey through the labyrinthine world of love, power, and deceit.
