Broadchurch: Episode 3.6

Broadchurch: Episode 3.6
ITV
2 August 2017
Crime Drama
DVD
B+

This is the only Broadchurch episode directed by Lewis Arnold, which is a shame because it might well be the best of Series Three.  The thread that most moved me is rooted in Series One.  Mark talks with Joe and realises he'll never get closure, even though Joe admits his guilt.  The episode opens with Mark dreaming of Danny and there are later dreams/delusions of Danny, including right before Mark drowns himself.  (I think using Oskar McNamara gives these scenes an extra punch, as if Mark can imagine that Danny is still growing up like Tom Miller.)  Yes, the suicide is a selfish act, considering all that Beth and their daughters already have to cope with, but it's understandable that he can't live with the knowledge that Joe is guilty but will never be punished, and even if he were, it wouldn't bring Danny back.  Kudos to Andrew Buchan, who's usually been overshadowed by Jodie Whittaker as a performer, although, yes, I'm really looking forward to seeing how she plays Beth's reaction.

Meanwhile, Ed, who I early on guessed (although I didn't post it) had a crush on Trish, turns out to have been an obsessive stalker, although I doubt he's the rapist since he's arrested this episode and there are still two episodes to go.  Jim Atwood still looks and acts very guilty, but that may make him a red herring, too.  Ian the ex-husband seems to be the local porn supplier, but I don't think he's the rapist.  So that leaves the cabbie I think, unless I've forgotten someone.  Oh, right, the convicted rapist, but according to IMDB he's not coming back, so he's off the hook for this crime at least.  Well, I'm sure there will be some more twist and turns in the penultimate episode.

Footballer David Cromarty would also be in the finale.  Josette Simon is quite good in her small role of Chief Superintendent Clark and I'm glad she'll be back for the last two episodes.