A small town in Galloway, on the South-west coast of Scotland. A cottage mysteriously unchanged since 1941. A dead nurse. And lawyer Peter Calman with one million pounds in his bank account, and no idea how it got there.
Unraveling Mystery and Intrigue
"Curlew in Autumn," a vintage thriller serial in six episodes by Edward Boyd, originally broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 1984, is a captivating audio drama that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Set in a small town in Galloway, Scotland, the story unfolds with a series of mysterious events that lead lawyer Peter Calman into a web of intrigue, deception, and danger.
The narrative kicks off with Peter Calman finding himself in dire straits, facing financial troubles and personal upheaval. However, his troubles escalate when his ex-girlfriend Jenny reaches out to him, concerned about her friend Tim Leighton, who has seemingly vanished under suspicious circumstances. As Peter delves deeper into the disappearance, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets and lies, leading him to confront the dark underbelly of his seemingly tranquil town.
At the heart of "Curlew in Autumn" is its compelling cast of characters, brought to life by a talented ensemble of actors. David Ashton delivers a standout performance as Peter Calman, portraying the character with depth and nuance as he navigates the twists and turns of the plot. Stella Forge shines as Jenny, imbuing her character with a blend of vulnerability and determination. The supporting cast, including Vivienne Dixon, Ian Stewart, and Gregor Fisher, also deliver stellar performances, adding layers of complexity to the story.
Edward Boyd's masterful writing drives the narrative forward, weaving together elements of mystery, suspense, and drama with skillful precision. Each episode unfolds like a carefully crafted puzzle, with clues and revelations keeping listeners guessing until the very end. Boyd's ability to create tension and suspense is truly commendable, drawing listeners deeper into the story with each passing moment.
Director Patrick Rayner deserves praise for his expert handling of the material, guiding the cast through the intricate plot with finesse. The production values are top-notch, with atmospheric sound design and immersive music adding to the overall experience. From the eerie ambiance of the Scottish landscape to the tense confrontations between characters, every aspect of the audio production contributes to the overall sense of immersion and engagement.
Overall, "Curlew in Autumn" is a gripping audio drama that delivers thrills, chills, and surprises in equal measure. Whether you're a fan of classic mysteries or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, this vintage thriller is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. With its stellar performances, compelling narrative, and expertly crafted production, "Curlew in Autumn" is a must-listen for anyone craving an immersive audio experience.