Inside No 9 S5 E6 The Stakeout

My thoughts on “The Stakeout” - the final episode of series 5 of Inside No 9 (with spoilers around the 1:50, just so you know!)
By the way, huge thanks to all my listeners and subscribers for helping my channel hit 2K subs! You’re a great bunch - right good sense of humour!
Special stuff:
The BBC announce two more series of Inside No 9: www.denofgeek....
The excellent dodoswords blog has started reviewing IN9 series 5: dodoswords.wor...
“LeaguezAkimbo” on Twitter - a local page, plus they helped me confirm the shooting location of the latest episode: / leaguezakimbo
If you like tikka masalas and getting caught in the rain (which should absolutely be the new slogan for Glasgow!): news.bbc.co.uk/...
“I play guitar… I’m not a vampire!”

[@d_wigz6418]

Cool little detail, Steve's character gives Reeces the coffin riddle and he doesn't get it. Maybe the reason why he doesn't is because the part that goes "who ever uses it doesnt know his using it" wouldn't apply to him.

[@WeeLin]

That's a great detail - of course it wouldn't make sense to him! Don't know why he guessed a towel, but it immediately made me picture Herr Lipp from LoG saying "it's blue!"

[@JM-gd3hr]

@@WeeLin In many folklores water is hazardous to vampires. This is referenced in the episode with the inability to cross running water (with the bridge). Perhaps Reese guesses a towel because it is a vampire's equivalent to a coffin, in that coming into contact with enough water to necessitate a towel would cause a vampire's "death"/destruction.

[@miriamwebb9432]

@@WeeLin maybe the towel because of The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.

[@WeeLin]

@@miriamwebb9432 Ooh, I hadn't thought of that! Also, thanks for reminding me that it's been far too long since I last read Hitchhikers Guide, and I should probably read it again.

[@misterf2923]

@@WeeLin your "Ooh, I hadn't thought of that!" : when I read it I hear Reece's voice in Spaced XD,; another detail: Steve can't sleep well (the noise) and when he asks about Reece, the answer is: "dead to the world" XD

[@daisyjeavons7788]

This episode has not left my mind since I first watched it- all the hints are so startlingly obvious I can’t believe I never clocked on! Everything about this episode was so perfect (especially the hauntingly beautiful music) it miiight just be my new favourite. Adam Tandy said on the podcast that he, Reece and Steve were so worried that they made the twist too obvious on paper, but clearly it was shot and performed so brilliantly that it took everyone by surprise! Clearly a masterclass in subverting expectations!

[@WeeLin]

I can see, having watched it a second time, why they would think there were too many clues. But they did a great job of making us focus on the cop story, and they only seem obvious to me now. A sign of brilliant writing, that is!

[@curiositypiqued6573]

What was the violin music???

[@SimonHeartfield]

​@@curiositypiqued6573 It's an original score by Christian Henson.

[@jameshunter6500]

I think bargain hunt should have a sudden vampire ending

[@WeeLin]

Yes! Nobody expects them on a daytime show. And I'm sure vampires need bargains too.

[@jameshunter6500]

Is it sad since writing that comment I have come up with how that episode would play out

[@islascott5578]

@@jameshunter6500 An interesting idea - please do elaborate. For some reason, the image of a hyper Carlos (one of the antique experts) being scared out of his what-not amuses me a bit

[@jameshunter6500]

Isla Scott it’s totally normal bargain hunt then right at the end the team that loses just eats the other team

[@stevegoodson9022]

Love the way the boys hide so much in plain sight, that title is such a bold one to use for a secret vampire rug-pull

[@WeeLin]

"Secret vampire rug-pull" might end up being the name for someone's indie band, based on this episode.

[@leeannw7960]

I really enjoyed this episode.... i didnt pick up on any of the vampire references throughout the episode till i rewatched it this morning. It was such a clever episode xx

[@WeeLin]

I also managed to miss all the vampire references - watching it again, I'm wondering how I could miss so many! I think my favourite (and one of the most subtle) is that Reece didn't get the riddle about the coffin. Because none of that really applies to you, if you happen to be a vampire.

[@islascott5578]

@@WeeLin I miss most clues from most of the episodes on the first watch, so your far from the only one. When I see vids from other fans analysing the shows, I realise how little I pick up on. Re-watches are definitely fun and revealing though. Hindsight is a brilliant thing etc.(?).

[@cScottD]

OMG... The STAKE out. 😲 I didn’t catch that until you mentioned it.

[@WeeLin]

I think I literally facepalmed when I realised!

[@tomkenning5482]

Petition for the first episode of series 6 to just be multiple short clips of steve brutally murdering reece

[@WeeLin]

Episode 1: "Revenge"

[@bandamani]

Lmao

[@josemaria8177]

I personally guessed the twist when he said to the controller that his name was Varney. I have a love of victorian gothic fiction and my mind instantly went to Varney the Vampire, the famous Penny Dreadfull that created a lot of vampire tropes. Then I remebered the opening narration and I thought "Reece is a vampire"

[@soulfoodie1]

Just want to give some love for Mattias Nyberg's work as director as photography which created a wonderful creepy atmosphere and indeed Christian Henson's soundtrack. And fun fact Steve was originally supposed to play Varney and Reece Thompson but as Reece cannot drive he ended up playing Varney (but I actually think things worked out for the best!)

[@WeeLin]

The atmosphere was just utterly brilliant - props to Nyberg, Henson and to Guillem Morales, who's directed a lot of my favourite No 9s. So, this should have been Steve's revenge? What a shame. Never mind, there's always the next two series!

[@RaRa-eu9mw]

I really loved this episode. It felt like Inside Number 9 back on form. The reveal felt like a penny-drop more than anything forced or obtuse. Really fun episode.

[@WeeLin]

Like I was saying, the twist sounds crazy, but supernatural horror isn't exactly random when it comes from these two. And the clues were all there the whole time.

[@di7770]

Wasn't too happy with the ending, the twist was great and we'll foreshadowed, however I kinda hoped that it would be more bitter sweet. For instance Steve's old partner kills Reese instead and saves Steve by turning him into a vampire.

[@WeeLin]

I did feel sorry for Steve to be fair. Maybe they should've turned him instead, and become a roaming mob of vampire cops... might even be a show in that somehow?

[@di7770]

@@WeeLin Yeah the way that he's not scared just kind of sad really made me uneasy. Him slowly shaking his head, I hoped that it was gonna cause his old partner to snap out of his hunger and take revenge on the Man who killed him. Still a great episode regardless, I'm just not good with depressing endings which is why I refuse to watch Riddle of the Sphinx. Also, that would be a great show.

[@EshfulCookie]

Watching again - The Coffin Riddle! Varney can't guess it because he DOES use a coffin!

[@WeeLin]

And he knows he's using it! Subtle, but great.

[@soulfoodie1]

This episode along with Love's great adventure are my personal favourites from this season for different reasons. Again deeply impressed by Steve and Reece's creativity and ability to confound our expectations. I am trying to spread the word far and wide about the show. I do love how this episode used police drama tropes to misdirect the audience. I have a lot of thoughts about this episode I have been putting into a blog post but I personally feel it is a very interesting exploration of male bonding and the anxieties that go along with it. Thank you for your weekly reviews- have really enjoyed!

[@WeeLin]

You're very welcome! That sounds like a fascinating take on the episode, and I'd love to read your blog post when it's published.

[@rixx46]

I agree. Because the writing is so good, I think we (I!) sometimes don't account what good actors they both are - the misdirection also works so well because of the grounded authenticity of their performances. They calibrated their characters to the genre just as keenly as they focused their characterizations. If either of them had played a moment too broadly or with a 'spooky' inflection, the gig would be up. We bought into Steve's trauma fully, which acted as the perfect smokescreen for their intent.

[@soulfoodie1]

@@WeeLin here we go- this may be a load of nonsense on my part but here goes marjanefan.tumblr.com/post/612390837102559232/inside-no-9-the-stakeout-review-includes

[@adamthapazz4137]

It's so amazing what they can do with a vampire story. I mean, wow!

[@WeeLin]

Not to mention secret vampire stories where they keep us distracted with cop tropes - genius!

[@adamthapazz4137]

@@WeeLin exactly! This is what inside number 9 is about.. how many movies or TV shows can keep you hooked without changing the scene for like 20 mins? can't wait for next season 😃

[@lucyschoon5585]

When Reece radio's in his position in the dockland, he gives it as hedon road. That's a street near the dockland of his hometown of hull...

[@miarose5156]

Lucy Schoon I noticed that too, being from Hull and all 😂

[@WeeLin]

Nice! I wouldn't have known that at all.

[@lucyschoon5585]

@@WeeLin and in league of gentlemen, when they talk about Hammond supermarket (formally binns.) That's a hull thing too..

[@jimmy200570]

The vampire doesn’t give the right answer about coffins because he knows he is using the coffin.

[@johncoffin9354]

Odd quibbles: how does a vampire get hired as a policeman without exposure to daylight? And if he can't enter the car without specific invitation every time, how does he go about everywhere else?

[@WeeLin]

It's a tough one to reason out. Personally, I'm going with the idea that there's a long-running inner cabal of vampire cops within the system, and that one day they'll get their own series. How'd they get started? That part is unclear, although I'd wager that they have a talent for glamouring/manipulating humans into doing their bidding without question and that they also have some alternative means of transport available to them (underground network, transformation into creatures, mist etc). Odd quibbles are the best quibbles!

[@johncoffin9354]

@@WeeLin I've never heard of the 'by invitation only' thing before True Blood. It isn't as if there was an ACTUAL vampire Rule Book they had to follow. Just a background motivation for the coffee gag.

[@WeeLin]

@@johncoffin9354 You're right, and this is a point I keep coming back to - there is no actual vampire rule book. Because vampires aren't real! See also: zombies, ghosts, superheroes, the list goes on. Many people consider Bram Stoker's Dracula to be the definitive vampire lore, but when you read the book, you might be surprised by a few details. Sunlight, for example, doesn't kill vampires - it only limits their powers. Plus you can find all manner of vampire lore and traits in older myths and works aside from Dracula, with some aspects of vampirism that you seldom see today (the need to count small objects is an obscure one, although it has at least one modern example - in Sesame Street of all places!) The need for vampires to be invited indoors existed for a long time before True Blood. I'm not sure where exactly it began, but I think I first saw it used as a plot point in The Lost Boys, and I'm sure I'd heard of it before then. Might look that up later. Yes, I might be a bit obsessed with vampire fiction!

[@johncoffin9354]

@@WeeLin And Stoker's Dracula had hairy palms.

[@violetgc6049]

@@WeeLin In the film version of "What We Do In The Shadows" the vampire flatmates talk about needing to be invited in before they can enter a club or a bar when they go out on the town on a Saturday night

[@turdferguson7264]

Loved this episode, loved this series. It's difficult to pick a favourite but my top 3 episodes this series were The Stakeout, Misdirection, Death Be Not Proud (in no particular order). Favourite moment was any of the interactions between David and his mother, least favourite was Steve's questionable Southern State accent. I can't wait to see what you have for us next. 👍😁

[@WeeLin]

Thanks! I should have also mentioned my funniest moment in the whole series, which probably goes to David and Maureen dancing to Soulja Boy.

[@turdferguson7264]

@@WeeLin God yes, that was hilarious!

[@rixx46]

@@turdferguson7264 nice to know they will be together forever now -- AND not doing any more bad murders!

[@turdferguson7264]

@@rixx46 I like to think that they're doing bad murders, but because it's the afterlife you can just keep "killing" the same people over and over. They'll be acting out their fantasies but with none of the consequences. 😂😂😂

[@no_mnom]

I agree.

[@Anthony-mt7qr]

So I read somewhere that there is a hare hidden in each episode of this series...

[@WeeLin]

Indeed! It's a silver statue they hide in the background. This time they were quite crafty about it - I won't tell if you want to look for it first though.

[@ghosthoarder98]

I found it hilariously awkward when Reese spent so much time licking Steve’s neck

[@WeeLin]

Haha, so true! Wonder how many takes that took? I can just see Reece getting into it more just to wind up Steve!

[@GenericGooner]

It’s like a through the keyhole summary... Let’s look at the clues; the name Varney, the talking corpse at the start, the not understanding the coffin riddle, the aversion to the garlic laced curry, the need to be invited into the car every time, the inability to cross a body of water.... what twist is in an episode like this, David it’s over to you.

[@WeeLin]

Haha, yes - it is like Through the Keyhole! I think that show might have been better if they included more vampires.

[@anxiousclown8918]

Possibly my favourite episode of this new series though I may have to re-watch Misdirection to make the call. Misdirection had a bloody good twist but I have to admit, as soon as Reece disappeared in the car mirror I was shrieking at how well everything fell into place and even how it tied in with the five tropes game they played earlier in the episode. Just what I've come to expect from them and come on, who doesn't like vampires? Can't wait for the next No. 9 video - always interested in hearing unpopular opinions, especially on a show like this. I've really enjoyed your reviews for series 5 and I really hope you do the same for future series 😁

[@WeeLin]

Thanks, and I'm already planning to do this again for series 6 (and 7!), whenever that happens. I love vampires - I'm a huge BtVS fan (a Buffy-buff?) and the reason I ended up locked in a graveyard like I mentioned was because I'd been there for a series of talks on Bram Stoker. I'm also meant to be going to an immersive Dracula play later this month, providing it doesn't end up shut down because of the bloody Corona virus or something!

[@anxiousclown8918]

@@WeeLin That honestly sounds like so much fun! I'm jealous. Hope it stays on and I really hope it's great 😄

[@Rhlgull1331]

oh god, i just noticed that the title somewhat gives away the twist

[@WeeLin]

Yep - just one of many details that went right over my head first time!

[@EJ-sy7sc]

Honestly I had a huge disadvantage (if you'd call it that) with this episode - I've always been at least a little bit obsessed with vampires so I guessed it from the monologue, however I didn't take my guess seriously (I always guess it, even without the obvious immortality clue at the start), so I was so enormously surprised to actually see it!

[@WeeLin]

I'm a fan of vampires myself, so I was surprised I didn't catch on. I did something similar before - a guess that I didn't take seriously - when I first saw the 12 Days of Christine. It was actually on the tip of my tongue around about day 3, and yet I was still shocked when it turned out to be true.

[@jacobpope7708]

I was super proud of myself for this one, cos I literally shouted VAMPIRES about three minutes before the reveal

[@adamthapazz4137]

The more you watch an episode of inside number 9 the more you learn stuff, that's also my favourite part, the "aah I see" moment.

[@WeeLin]

That's my favourite part! I could watch them forever and still keep finding those little details.

[@Beany-bean]

When I’d seen the episode title I was like ‘ohhh, vampire ???’ But when I saw it was a police episode I’d brushed it off to me just jumping to conclusions.

[@WeeLin]

Turns out you were right all along!

[@paulobodriguez7437]

even though I was expecting there to be some paranormal episode 6 twist as is tradition I absolutely did not guess that's what it was going to be hahaha

[@WeeLin]

I thought they'd already got their paranormal kick this series with the ghost of Maureen in episode 2. This one took me completely by surprise.

[@AtheAetheling]

Loved the episode. My personal ranking for season 5 is; 1. The stakeout 2. The referee's a wnkr 3. Death be not proud 4. Misdirection 5. Thinking out loud 6. Loves great adventure.

[@WeeLin]

My ranking would definitely be subject to change every time I start watching them again!

[@CharlieMatthews2003]

Reece also says ‘I’m a bit long in the tooth for that’ which is another reference to Vampires if you didn’t notice this one 😁👍

[@WeeLin]

That's especially brilliant because it works on two levels - both "long in the tooth" as meaning "ancient", plus it's a reference to vampire fangs. Pure genius.

[@CharlieMatthews2003]

WeeLin absolutely. It makes it even more genius when it’s as subtle as they do. 👍 x

[@MedievalFolkDance]

You're quite right. Tikka Masala was an off-the cuff creation when a restaurant goer felt the chicken tikka was a bit dry and asked for "some gravy"

[@echdareez]

Brilliant episode - there was a hunch in the back of that thingy floating between my two ears that it had something to do with vampires, but this was shot so brilliantly... Over before I knew it and captivated until the end. And of course... I HAVE to mention that music, that recurring theme that lingers on through the episode. Eery, spooky, haunting and just beautiful. Chances of this are slim but I hope it ends up on the soundtrack someday :-) Brilliant brilliant brilliant!

[@WeeLin]

I would love an official score/soundtrack - I wonder if there's a way to suggest this to the BBC?

[@echdareez]

WeeLin If there is - do let us know ☺️ Would also love to hear it... I've seen there is one for a previous season (also with songs referenced in the episodes) but who knows... 😏 Doesn't hurt to ask? I would immediately do it... if I lived in the UK 😋

[@Dani_Ptitsa]

The ending definitely took me by surprise and I'm glad, because if I had known it was a vampire-based episode, I probably would have swerved it or not watched it so keenly. Dunno why but vampire tales just don't hold any charm for me! I think my favourite episode in S5 is The Referee's A W-er, because I love the conflict and the building sense of paranoia. Despite the really clunky ending I also really enjoyed Thinking Out Loud - Reece made me cry because I lost a parent to cancer last year and Maxine Peak's segment reminded me of Alan Bennett's Talking Heads monologues (anyone who did GCSE English in the late 90s might remember that!). Congrats on your 2k, by the way, you're definitely one of my favourite channels and I've been telling my League/Psycho/No.9 fan pals about you!

[@WeeLin]

Thanks so much! I've been so happy to learn there's such a big League/Psycho/IN9 fanbase out there. This is why I'm glad series 5 ( and the show in general) tried so many different things. You may not like vampires, I might not like football, but we still got some great stories out of them. Plus this series seemed to focus more on drama, which was a bold choice for a show usually labelled as dark comedy. Reece almost made me cry too in Thinking Out Loud (one of his greatest performances in my opinion), and I'm sorry to hear you lost a parent to cancer. I've lost family members to cancer, but I can't even imagine what it's like to see it happen to a parent.

[@Dani_Ptitsa]

@@WeeLin I'm ashamed to admit that I didn't start watching IN9 when it first came out, but I spent a very happy week binge-watching all of it just before series 5 was announced and it amazed me how many genres and concepts were successfully attempted. Of course I have my favourite episodes but not one of them is a dud - I do particularly enjoy the less supernatural ones like Referee, Cold Comfort etc because there's plenty of horror in real life! Thinking Out Loud just hit me out of nowhere, as did Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room - my dad would have been a massive fan of Cheese And Crackers so it was doubly moving. Reece and Steve are masters!

[@jartism]

Congrats on 2k! Unrelated but this episode made me think of the potential for other vehicle based episodes, like one set in a plane but only focusing on one row of seats or something, dealing with the awkwardness of being stuck sat between strangers for hours and hours a la "la couchette"

[@WeeLin]

Thanks! That's funny you should mention vehicles, as someone was talking to me the other week about setting an episode on a No 9 bus. I doubt anything could match the claustrophobia and awkwardness of La Couchette though.

[@EshfulCookie]

Just watched it, immediately came here. I thought the narration at the start was a fakeout, and Reece wouldn't be dead, but had no idea what to expect. Brilliant. No Activity is a pretty good show around stakeouts and the like, really enjoyed this new take on it. For me, season has to be 1) The Ref's a Wanker. Can't stand most sports, it had me caring and afraid for the character's futures 2) Love's Great Adventure. Wasn't expecting a pure family drama. Really good. 3) The Stakeout. Will definitely have to rewatch. 4) Misdirection. Loved the music and opening sequence, and the illusions we saw, pretty much knew what to expect. 5) Death Be Not Proud. Screamed when David, Maureen and Jelly appeared. Didn't love the ending but still thoroughly enjoyable. 6)Thinking Out Loud. Each talking head was brilliantly performed, the vlogger was uncannily well done. Didn't love the execution of the big reveal, but still a worthwhile episode.

[@WeeLin]

Thanks - I've not heard of No Activity, but I'll be sure and look into it. If it's anything like this, it should be good (not expecting vampires this time though!)

[@Callum_2613]

I think this was probably the best episode of the series, I was worried the trailer of the series had spoiled this episode but I should’ve realised Reece and Steve wouldn’t let that happen. Brilliant episode with a twist I didn’t see coming

[@WeeLin]

Nothing managed to spoil it for me - not the fans, not the trailer, nor the massive amount of clues that apparently went right over my head!

[@Callum_2613]

WeeLin I was worried the “unfortunately she was a flexitarian vegan cannibal” was a spoiler, but fortunately it was just a game played by the officers

[@WeeLin]

@@Callum_2613 Nice use of the fortunately/unfortunately right there!

[@Callum_2613]

WeeLin was accidental I’ll have to admit, would’ve been better if I had intended that :)

[@miarose5156]

Loved this episode the premise was amazing and Reece and Steve worked well together (as they always do) the vampire twist was really well foreshadowed and I never expected it, I knew that there was a red herring with Steve as they set it up to look like he killed his partner but I couldn’t quite put my finger on where it was going, also Reece casually mentioning a street from his hometown was a super nice moment for me. Best moment in the series has to go to David’s reveal in death be not proud, as a huge psychoville fan it left me speechless

[@WeeLin]

Well foreshadowed and still unexpected... the best kind of twist. And who on earth would have predicted a Psychoville crossover? Definitely not me, who made a whole video last year on Psychoville because I was convinced that everyone had forgotten about it!

[@lordofgeese2739]

The Stakeout. You kill vampires with a stake through the heart. I felt like a genius when I realized that.

[@WeeLin]

Really? Because I felt like an idiot for not noticing sooner. Maybe I should cut myself some slack!

[@lordofgeese2739]

@@WeeLin In all fairness it's something you only realise when you find out that the episode was about vampires the whole time.

[@dariogeorge8680]

Great season finale. And one for a re-watch. Congrats on 2k subs.

[@WeeLin]

Thank you! And yeah - it's one of those rewatches where I end up kicking myself (i.e. the best kind).

[@TRey-ly4vx]

My definite favorite episode of the series for sure, I'd rank them like this 1. The Stakeout 2. Misdirection 3. The Refs A Wanker 4. Death Be Not Proud 5. Loves Great Adventure 6. Thinking Out Loud

[@WeeLin]

I keep feeling torn between this one and Misdirection - both fantastic episodes.

[@jartism]

One of the best for sure, series 3 has a close place in my heart but it's definitely a strong contender for my favourite.

[@AlexImpressions]

Yeah series 3 is also my favourite cause it's one of the more darker ones. Apparently the BBC has ordered two more series and Reece and Steve are currently working on series 6!

[@WeeLin]

Series 3 is a real favourite of mine - Riddle of the Sphinx is genius, Diddle Dumpling is an incredible piece of work and I love Devil of Christmas both for its humour and the absolute nastiness of that final twist.

[@glamdolly30]

A great two-hander. Surely one of the greatest joys of 'IN9' is the second viewing, when you spot the clues and deconstruct the script! This episode had a simplicity I liked, plus all my favourite 'Inside No 9' elements: a bickering 'odd couple', classic horror references, a stonking, hits-you-between-the eyes twist... Oh, but it was missing one. Neither Steve nor Reece wore drag. What can I tell ya - I'm a child of the seventies, raised on Dick Emery, Les Dawson, Stanley Baxter and Danny La Rue, I like my comedy served up with bouffant wigs and size 9 stilettos. Excellent news that another TWO series have been commissioned. How on Earth they manage to come up with so many and varied, ingenious plots is beyond me. Oh to be a fly on the wall during their writing sessions! But that would let light in on the magic, and as Reece himself said a few years back during a Q&A at the National Film Theatre, modern viewers are so scarily sophisticated it's almost impossible to wrong foot them with a surprise plot twist. So I guess we should back off, respect the boy's art, resist over-analysing, and just be massively grateful for it! For my money there was something subtly but markedly different about this series. It felt more organic somehow, like the stories and situations flowed and didn't seem too contrived or try-hard. To my mind the guys have now really found their feet with the 'Number 9' concept and don't have to embellish or prove anything. Perhaps it's just me, but this series felt much more varied, with each episode a stand alone in more than simple plot terms, but in style and atmosphere too. CONGRATULATIONS on hitting 2k subs, a fantastic achievement! More power to you. Looking forward to your next video, sounds great! Lisa. XXX

[@WeeLin]

Well, we did get Reece back as Maureen in episode 2, so the series wasn't completely drag-less! Though I tend to forget it's drag with those two - they're just far too convincing. Even their costume designer for LoG said they'd just disappear into the female parts. I can resist over-analysing, but only to a point (otherwise these videos would be really, really short!) That, and I try to be clear when I think it's a valid interpretation and when I've just come up with a vague theory that's probably wrong. And the beauty of their writing is that they understand things can be read in different ways and tend to leave just enough for the audience to decide. It's not always just about the twist either, as we've been seeing in this series. I agree with you - I think they're now so comfortable with the concept that they feel more free to explore the ideas and the stories they want to tell.

[@glamdolly30]

@@WeeLin Exactly! I really appreciate the respect SP & RS clearly have for their viewers, they never over-explain or make the clues glaringly obvious. And the areas of ambiguity they resolutely leave where they are, just add to the believability of the whole thing. I'm so glad you've created your channel, it's a much-needed outlet to discuss a remarkable series with other fans, and bat ideas around. The work is so rich and unique, it thoroughly deserves closer inspection! I've actually 'met' Reece Shearsmith twice, but was unable to speak to him on both occasions. The first time, I got onto a busy, mid-morning Northern Line tube train, sat down, looked up and immediately realised he was sitting bang opposite me (reading a newspaper, as I recall). It just didn't feel right to bother him, so I tried not to stare and left him alone! That would have been back in 2002, when I only knew him from 'The League of Gentlemen'. The second time was a few years ago, when we were both guests at a private memorial service for a mutual friend. It just didn't feel right to approach him (or Steve Pemberton, who was also present), while we were all quietly nursing drinks and nibbles and speaking in low voices about the deceased, and gush about how great their work is. I felt it would be far too 'Alan Partridge attends funeral and insults widow in a 'Castrol GTX' bomber jacket', if you get my drift! Ah well, maybe I'll get to chew the fat with the comedy legends some other time, what a fascinating encounter that would be! Thanks again for your lovely responses, you're a doll. X

[@loosegoose2466]

Loved the episode and your recap. I accidentally had this episode spoiled during an internet search. However knowing the twist made me appreciate all the foreshadowing. Favourite clue is Constable Varney.....Varney the Vampire reference. Lolz

[@silverspike1]

I also bloody loved this one. I stupidly didn't pick up on the Vampire references early on, but I suspected right from the get go something horror/supernatural was on the cards, what with the cemetery and ll. Shot in Southgate? Really? Thats right near me. Rats! If only I had known. lol Oh and congrats on reaching 1000 sub! Well deserved.

[@WeeLin]

Just think - you could've photobombed them from the trees, or something! I just thought they wanted at atmospheric setting, plus a nice pun (it is "the graveyard shift" after all).

[@DMCMT01]

Worth the wait ❤️

[@WeeLin]

Wasn't it just? Great episode - I loved it!

[@octavianblackthorn5106]

This season was not the best, not by a long shot. However, I can't think of a single one tjat was bad or boring. They were all highly entertaining. That's the thing about IN9. Even my least favourite episode (And The Winner Is...) was highly entertaining to watch. My ranking is: 1) Thinking Out Loud 2) Misdirection 3) The Stakeout 4) Death Be Not Proud 5) The Referee's A W***er 6) Love's Great Adventure

[@WeeLin]

I always say that even the weakest episode of IN9 is better than just about anything else on telly. Right now, I'm leaning towards series 3 as my favourite, but honestly, it's hard to choose. To me, they're all great!

[@octavianblackthorn5106]

@@WeeLin i'd say my favourite is definitely either series 2 or 4. Just because of the standout episodes like the 12 days of christine, Cold Comfort, and Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room. But it's hard to say when it varies so much by episode.

[@Dani_Ptitsa]

And The Winner Is stole my heart.

[@SAMTYLER1974]

This was an example of an episode that's gotten better the more I think about it. As you mentioned the vampiric Easter eggs seem so obvious now and I admit to shouting out an extremely rude word when the title interpretation clicked! I'm keen to watch it again to see what else I missed as alongside the elements you mentioned was also the obvious reason Reece was concerned about Steve's blood levels, the 'I'm dead to the world' line regarding the previous night's sleep and even the coffin riddle which Reece passed off as clever but, after the revelation, is clearly wrong as vampires obviously know they're using coffins. Also I want to review Reece's reaction to the alleged murder weapon as it was clearly cross shaped and, well, we know what that means. Oh, and I was chuffed I found the infamous rabbit ... again pay attention to the files. Overall a really top class episode that I personally consider one of this season's best though the overall quality has been excellent. The first episode was a brilliant opening despite me loathing football and Misdirection reminded me of The Riddle of the Sphinx, one of my favourite episodes. Were I forced to choose I'd say Thinking Out Loud was easily the weakest and possibly even in my top 5 lesser episodes as the multiple personality is a rather overused twist and the clunky exposition surprised and disappointed me considering how uniformly genius the majority of this show and Reece and Steve's previous work has been. So, it seems 6 weeks fucking flew by but with two more series on the cards that more than makes up for things ... will they reach series 9?

[@WeeLin]

Nine series would be the perfect number, but if they want to keep making them forever then I won't complain! Very sneaky hare this week I thought (well, it had to be - they couldn't exactly stick it on the dashboard!) And yeah, the fixation on Steve's blood pressure - I even thought the chai latte might be there to boost his blood sugar and maybe give it some extra... flavour? And yeah, I totally agree with your criticisms of last week's episode. However, I did think it had some fine acting moments and was still better than most of the stories I've seen that are built around the same twist/theme. Just goes to show that even the weakest No 9 is still one of the best things on telly!

[@SAMTYLER1974]

As a huge fan of horror and gaming, not to mention Inside No 9 I'm surprised I've not seen your videos on my recommendations until yesterday but you now have another subscriber! I'll be checking out your other analysis vids asap. Do you intend to go back and tackle every episode thus far? It's great to see such an amazing show (pretty much the only reason I watch TV) highlighted online as it clearly deserves the widest audience possible. All the best Nik

[@WeeLin]

@@SAMTYLER1974 Cheers for the sub! I've covered a couple of No 9 episodes in greater depth, plus I went through a bunch of episodes in detail for my "Nine most disturbing No 9s" series. The next video will cover another 5 episodes. I try to give long form analysis where possible, but it's surprisingly hard with some episodes, especially the comedies. Sometimes it makes more sense to group them. Ideally I'd like to have at least something on each one eventually, but some episodes might get more attention than others.

[@LovelyRuthie]

I figured it out in the first two minutes...which isn't something I have ever done for a single 'Inside No 9' but I had a slight advantage as I write comic horror. But the tells in the first few minutes for me were; Reece's character starts off dead, but there's blood all round his mouth. I thought, 'Ooh, he looks like a vampire who's just had a feed'...but that's my default with anyone with anything vaguely red around their mush. Reece's character is called Varney - Varney the Vampire was the first popular fictional vampire predating Bram Stoker's Dracula by decades. I haven't seen a review so far that makes the connection, although I've not listened to the podcast yet. To be fair my first thought was actor Reg Varney of 'On the Buses'...but when Steve says Varney the Vegan? The irony! Graveyard shift It's tradition that the last episode of each series has a supernatural element (I think! I may have misremembered) I've actually used the 'Stake Out' pun in my novel, as one of my characters is a vampire that works for a detective agency. So I basically spent the rest of the proceedings feeling unabashedly smug & looking for all the tells & tropes to confirm my theory - possibly the most enjoyment I've had out of any episode ;) But in all seriousness, it was well-played. Like you, however, I do agree the strongest this series was 'Misdirection'...and I didn't guess that one until the last few minutes! Thank you for your coverage here on KZbin - looking forward to your upcoming projects & well done for breaking 2k

[@leeannw7960]

Intresting to hear your review of the episode im a bit confused over the gunshot part. Who got shot as it went twice.. is this a reference i am not picking up on maybe. Xx

[@LovelyRuthie]

leighlee as both Reece & Steve survive to night three we can assume some shots missed. I expect neither of them were armed as British police often aren’t...so the suspect(s) likely had the guns. No mention of details which you might expect if either of them shot & hurt or killed the suspects, it just seems like Varney was quickly able to disarm them.

[@Picnicl]

Series 3 doesn't have a supernatural final episode (unless you count The Devil of Christmas as being the last episode rather than the first). Otherwise, yes, maybe it's a tradition that they might want to rethink so that people don't guess so easily. That said, I didn't suspect Reece was the villain until about the 25th minute, when Pemberton's character lightened up so much that it felt like a clear precursor to his good nature being betrayed. A bit of a complaint with series 5- I loved the very confined space episodes where there are several star guests like Sardines and La Couchette and none of the episodes were like that. Also, series 5 seemed to take itself a bit seriously as a whole. I missed the farce of series 4's Once Removed.

[@LovelyRuthie]

Picnicl I *always* think Reece is the villain, even when he’s not 😂

[@WeeLin]

Thank you! I just thought the blood on the mouth thing was that universal film language for "that guy's a goner". I've never heard of Varney the Vampire, so that's interesting too. And yeah, most of the episode 6s have a supernatural twist, apart from Private View, which was just loads and loads of killings! That's so cool that you write comic horror - have you got anything out there I could read? Gotta do something to tide me over till series 6!

[@octavianblackthorn5106]

Could you do a ranking of the series 5 episodes? Or, if you have the time, a ranking of every episode? That would be amazing! Love your content!

[@WeeLin]

Thanks! I find it quite hard to do rankings when the episodes are so thematically different, plus I can't decide whether I'm going with my personal favourites or the ones that are technically "better" episodes. The closest I got with that was ranking the "most disturbing" episodes, where I explained my own personal choices, and I think that went over well. For this series - Misdirection was my top choice, probably with The Stakeout as a close second. Death Be Not Proud was also a big highlight, but I don't know if it's technically one of the best written, or just because I loved Psychoville. Love's Great Adventure really grew on me, and I have a nice, sort-of nostalgic feeling watching it. The Referee surprised me as I'm not a footie fan, and while I wasn't crazy about the ending for Thinking Out Loud, I think it might have one of Reece's greatest acting moments to date. I guess that's an order of sorts - as I say, I'm not great at definitive scoring/ranking. Plus I could watch it all again from start to finish and change my mind completely! Maybe I'll wait till the last (ideally ninth?) series is done, then do one big mega video ranking the lot? Who knows. But thanks for the suggestion!

[@auntiecreeps1414]

Ahh so sad to see it end! This was my first season where I was able to experience each new episode as it was released and it's been the best part of my week for 6 weeks. I only discovered this show last year. I really enjoyed this one. The music was wonderful. They've been really on point with the music this season! My favorite episodes are a tie between Death Be Not Proud and Thinking Out Loud. I'm actually thinking of doing a video to introduce my own viewers to IN9 in case they don't know, handful that they are lol. If I do I plan on mentioning your channel and a few others for those who want to get a more in-depth analysis. :) 🌹

[@WeeLin]

You should absolutely make that video - I didn't think many people would go for IN9 content, and it turns out they can't get enough of it! I love hearing other people's takes too, and there are so many other people out there just waiting to discover the weird world of Steve and Reece. Spread the word! And that's lovely of you to think of mentioning my channel on there, but no pressure at all :)

[@RebelWhovian]

This has been my first live series of Inside No. 9 and I've loved it. Misdirection and The Stakeout have been particular highlights for me. Speaking of highlights, Christian Henson's score for this series has been a particular standout, in both the previously mentioned episodes, and 'Death Be Not Proud'. It's a real shame that a soundtrack hasn't be released for any of Inside No. 9. I can't wait for your upcoming videos, and am intrigued to see what episodes are regarded as the least popular. Seeing as two more series' have just been commissioned, I'd love to see a video from you, talking about ideas you have for future Inside No. 9 episode.

[@AlexImpressions]

Seems now like every British actor has been in Inside no 9! I wonder who they'll get for the next series. Here's some i'd love to see; Mark Heap, Jodie Comer, Eddie Redmayne, Toby Jones, Stephen Mangan, Maisie Williams, Russell Tovey, Olivia Coleman, David Tennant.

[@RebelWhovian]

Alex Rodriguez I’m hoping for Christopher Eccleston, Mark Gatiss (for obvious reasons) and Martin Freeman. Also, Toby Jones is a great shout!

[@WeeLin]

Christian Henson is a genius. Have you seen his KZbin channel? He did a vlog on scoring/performing the music for Dead Line that's almost as long as the episode. He also did one recently on creating the music for Death Be Not Proud. Well worth checking out, and I'd definitely buy the IN9 scores if they ever became available. I usually watch IN9 with my partner, who's also a composer, and he never fails to be impressed by Henson's work. To rank the "least popular" episodes, I found as many complete ranked lists as I could find from official media outlets, along with a few fan lists. Then I scored them and compiled the results.

[@WeeLin]

Could definitely see Mark Heap in a No 9 - he and Reece were both in Spaced many moons ago, so it's possible.

[@RebelWhovian]

WeeLin I watched the Halloween one a while back, and have only just started watching the rest of his videos. As you mention, the one featuring the Death Be Not Proud music is great. The isolated score in the video is beautiful. I’m hoping he does a video covering the haunting music from The Stakeout 🤞

[@magiavw7503]

Finally watched this and still feel like I need a detailed plot summary. I could hardly understand a thing that was being said at a high volume! If I didn't have your recap, I may have been completely lost. I will say Reece looked twenty shades paler than normal. I don't think you mentioned that.

[@rixx46]

I have been looking forward to your take on this one - yes - one of their best. I don't know if you (or anyone else here) has listened to their BBC Soundcloud podcast relating to this one, but they had to write it in a rush because one of the other six scripts was considered over budget. They started with the idea of 'two guys in a car' what can we do with that? I think part of their genius is they don't start with the idea of the twist and write to set it up - they start from character and situation and allow themselves to discover it organically. That way, they are finding the 'clues' in the same way the audience experiences the story. As I was watching it the first time (they all require an instant replay!) I caught the 'Yarny the Vegan' and related it to the classic 'Yarny the Vampire' and I STILL didn't pick up the clue! And of course, once you know the payoff, the show is virtually festooned with vamp references. I think this season (or series in Brit-speak) they have veered significantly away from dark comedy into an unadulterated thriller/drama tone. Given the Beeb has committed to TWO more seasons, we can look forward to at least a dozen more twisted tales from them. I hope they have not tossed comedy in the bin entirely. And YES, I will look forward to whatever further commentaries you have on #9 - and not just because I enjoy your accent. ;) www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0824y01/episodes/player

[@WeeLin]

I love their podcasts - I usually listen to them after I make my own video just so I can keep my opinions fresh and not just end up repeating a bunch of trivia facts you can easily find elsewhere. Then I'm right on the podcast, first chance I get! Maybe that unmade sixth script will have a better budget sometime in the future? And no, I don't think they've ditched the comedy altogether, at least not while they're still prepared to dress up as an old lady and her son and dance off to Soulja Boy!

[@rixx46]

WeeLin you’re probably right. What is it about British men that they all want to get into a dress? 😏

[@andyfreeman550]

Rick Drew thanks for the link!

[@WeeLin]

@@rixx46 You know, that is something about the British comedy tradition that I've often wondered about! I went into it a little in my Psychoville video, because I realised I'd probably have to explain the whole Christmas pantomime tradition to non-Brits - it's quite bizarre when you try to say it all out loud. I did hear the LoG costume designer say something about the Gents and their female characters - they never played them as "drag", like in other sketch shows, and instead they just disappeared into the characters they played. It was on the last Inside Inside No 9 podcast if you want to check that out. Steve and Reece have probably worn more dresses in their lives than I ever will!

[@wherearetheturtles3963]

This episode kind of reminded me of The Trial of Elizabeth Gadge because of the way I felt after watching it, just joy. It turned out to have a sort of fun and silly undertone even though it’s tone for the majority of the episode is serious and mysterious. I’m definitely going to enjoy rewatching it, even if it’s not one of my favourites and on the sort of G E N I U S level of some other episodes. From favourite to least I would rank this seasons episodes: Misdirection, Thinking Out Loud, Love’s Great Adventure, Death Be Not Proud, The Stakeout, and The Referee’s a W***er. I enjoyed every one of these episodes, but Misdirection and Thinking Out Loud are two of my favourites to date. I’m so hyped for the next seasons!

[@WeeLin]

Me too! And am I the only one who found Elizabeth Gadge hysterical throughout? Maybe I was reminded too much of Monty Python and Horrible Histories. But I'll never forget what "named" spelled backwards is!

[@wherearetheturtles3963]

WeeLin Yes ha ha! Although the themes are kind of dark it doesn’t take itself too seriously so it’s just fun to watch. I’m glad that they have a way of making the less intricate, genius-level episodes really fun and entertaining. I still really enjoy even my least favourite episodes. I definitely thought the Stakeout was better than Elizabeth Gadge though. And yes! I’ve never thought about it before but no. 9 does share a very similar sort of humour with horrible histories. No wonder I love both shows so much.

[@dutdut11]

The references in the intro tho😂

[@WeeLin]

All makes sense now, doesn't it? Classic twist.

[@Evanz111]

Join the club of people who have accidentally ended up locked in a cemetery at Halloween! Haha

[@WeeLin]

Ha! I'd been there for a talk on Bram Stoker and stayed behind to feed some squirrels. We then went to leave, but the gates were locked... and then the rain started!

[@Evanz111]

@@WeeLin I luckily grew up in one of the most haunted villages in the UK so I kinda became fascinated with the morbid and haunted places!

[@reubenrules5429]

Really enjoyed this episode. I thought reece looked pale white all the way through the episode and that bothered me... Right up until the reveal 😂 not my favourite series of no 9 but still incredibly good overall! They are just so good.

[@WeeLin]

Ha! I can just imagine people watching it, thinking "could they not have put a bit of make-up on Reece? Poor guy - he doesn't look well!"

[@paulflint6254]

Fantastic episode, thought i knew where this episode was going , i got it wrong. Only episode wasn't keen on was the aptly named football one. Great channel.

[@WeeLin]

Thanks! I was actually surprised I liked The Referee, seeing as I've zero interest in football. Fair play to them for that.

[@CMDR_Verm]

Love your reviews, kicking myself that I'm missing so many clues. I cannot believe that until I watched this review the title of ''The Stakeout'' had completely gone over my head. Doh! Guess I'm not as smart as I like to think.

[@WeeLin]

Lots of people missed the "stake" in stakeout - I was one of them too!

[@kate_cooper]

Totally not sorry but I've been wanting see vampire!Reece for ages. Ever since his girlfriend called him one as a joke in The Understudy.

[@WeeLin]

And then he said he wasn't one in the very next episode... LIES!

[@kate_cooper]

Oh yes, he did say that, didn't he? I'd forgotten that.

[@glenbrucecostello4464]

Along with Merrily Merrily i think this was among the best music score in all the episodes ever.

[@AndrewMcClenning]

This episode and "Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room" would wrap up 'my' third series. "La Couchette" and "Sardines" will bookend 'my' second series. "Love's Great Adventure" and "The 12 Days of Christine" will wrap 'my' first series.

[@WeeLin]

The way you say it sounds like one of Steve's riddles! All great episodes - some of those are my favourites too.

[@andyfreeman550]

Andrew McClenning quiet night is still the best episode IMO. Just sheer perfection.

[@sandraweilbrenner67]

Season 6 is coming soon , the trailer is out.

[@heathermyroomfriend3639]

I’ve got at least four people to watch it and a fifth to check it out cuz this show is just to good

[@WeeLin]

Testify! The show deserves all the fans it can get. And who knows - maybe more fans/viewers will even encourage the BBC to commission more episodes, or give them a bigger budget (they did say they had to abandon one of the scripts for this series because it would have taken them over budget).

[@heathermyroomfriend3639]

WeeLin would be so awesome if they made it to 9 series

[@mrslinkydragon9910]

I really enjoyed this episode! The previous was good but it was obvious to work out (to me at least)

[@WeeLin]

I actually feel a bit silly for not getting this one - it always feels so obvious once you know the twist.

[@JAProductions494]

My thoughts on the twist in this episode is exactly the opposite to my thoughts on the twist in Thinking Out Loud In Thinking Out Loud, I loved the twist when I saw it but over time found it a bit clunky In The Stakeout, I found the twist a bit clunky when I first saw it but over time loved it after noticing the clues

[@WeeLin]

I can't believe I missed the clues, especially as a fan of vampire stories. I'll chalk it up to their writing talents, as opposed to me being clueless!

[@boheem3451]

At first I thought this was going to be - 'Narrated From The Grave' - , only 10 films on imdb seem to have this tag. "Sunset Blvd" being the prime example of this story construction. I wasn't too clear on some of the scenes - sometimes we hear gunshots, but did they have guns? It's not clear who or what happened to the others that were 'shot'.

[@WeeLin]

Now I'm going to have to check IMDB and see what else falls under this category (the only one I can think of is American Beauty). I'm guessing the guys they ended up arresting were the ones who had the guns. Maybe no-one was actually hit by the shots, but instead Reece managed to subdue the criminals with his crazy vampire powers. Probably no chance of it being a deleted scene, but we can hope!

[@magiavw7503]

Steve would have finally gotten Reece if Deadline had been played straight and not turned into an absolute mental twist.

[@RyanKeane9]

Excellent as ever, WeeLin

[@WeeLin]

Cheers!

[@emiliarobson]

Love it as always! x

[@WeeLin]

Me too - they're so great at doing horror, especially when you least expect it!

[@Megakzilla]

Another brilliant video, I watched the episode last night pegged Reece was some sort of demon/creature from the grave being disturbed and the dagger and from the way he took out the guys at the port area but loved the reveal and a great episode

[@WeeLin]

Wish we'd seen vampire Reece taking out the guys at the port - that would've been something!

[@Megakzilla]

Totally agree but obviously would of totally ruined the revel maybe as some kind of flashback realisation of Steve’s as he was being bitten perhaps?

[@thelonewolf2476]

What does the ending mean for Varney ???

[@JackMatthews1998]

I actually "kind of" called the ending (the bit with Reece's character killing Steve's character's former police partner) Anyway, here's how I ranked the episodes of this series: 1. Thinking Out Loud 2. Death Be Not Proud 3. The Referee's A W*nker 4. The Stakeout 5. Misdirection 6. Love's Greatest Adventure

[@WeeLin]

I'm loving how each ranking I'm seeing is completely different. And yep - that's a lot closer than my initial call on the ending. I thought Steve might be the dodgier one - shows what I know!

[@NoName-zw8id]

Hi WeeLin. I love your accent. Reece, and Steve must love it too, although, maybe not in alphabetical order. Hold on, don't want to insult Reese. I think that the vampire aspect of this episode is simply that, with the audience drawing their own conclusion. Is that what you said, already? Hey, I loved "Empty Orchestra". I hated that one where the old man with the long toenails... There was another person in the credits. Awe, Well. One time, in my small town, I saw both Linda Blair, and Stephen King in the queue within about about 8 weeks of each other. If that's not enough time get Reece and Steve off my back, I don"t know what story is... The first time was Linda Blair. My dumbass went ahead for a flirt, "Ya know, you look a lot like Linda Blair." It really looked liked her, time gone by and all. She was pleased, and, said, Thank You. I wish that I hadn't spoken again. It was her. The other was that I may have recognized Stephen King straight in queue behind behind me (before covid) to say to the clerk, very loudly, "Stephen King"! WeeLin, if you don"t want to believe me, I don't care, but, both were real. I disrespected Linda Blair, and, I recognized Stephen King without congratulating him. I was absolutely afraid of both of them. I really could have pursued a great dialogue with Linda Blair. I was too afraid that Stephen King would have written a story about me, if I wasn't charming enough. I'm glad that I have been allowed a forum to express all of this normalcy. Thank You, WeeLin. Wanna hook up again another time?

[@NoName-zw8id]

Alright, alright, Bare Naked Ladies has the same dilemma. Just chalk it up to me, joe widger. No worries. It's still Spring, right? Thank you again for being there for a great analysis of one of the greatest dark comedies of our, We haven't seen 4,5 and six. Hell, I haven't seen 1,2 and three yet. I bought Britbox this month, and I'm still guessing that Love's Great Adventure was the best of this two seasons, while, I was refused the sixth season. I've seen Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room. Them damned Greeks.

[@WeeLin]

Very jealous that you met Linda Blair (I'm a huge fan of The Exorcist) and Stephen King - total legends! And yes, I'd probably be afraid of them too!

[@xXgorillazboosh11Xx]

I absolutely hate myself for analysing the teaser clip and guessing the twist a week before (I am somewhat obsessed with vampires and the name varney, the riddle with the coffin, and the title "stakeout" immediately gave it away) because I'm sure if i had watched it without i probably wouldn't have got it due to the opening scene, however it was still a brilliant episode!

[@WeeLin]

Still a great episode, whether or not you know the twist. It was pretty much the last thing I expected!

[@xXgorillazboosh11Xx]

@@WeeLin oh absolutely, I think working out out before made it even better because I wasn't spending time guessing I could just relax and enjoy it!

[@carolinewheeler77]

Easily the most out of nowhere twist. Left me actually yelling “what the FUCK”. Still loved it tho.

[@oddjob5589]

clearly we need an episode of countryfile to end in a sudden vampire attack, also bbc evening news

[@WeeLin]

Brilliant! The Beeb should have a quota for random vampire attacks.

[@jacobpope7708]

Love your channel by the way!

[@WeeLin]

Thanks - glad you like it! Been great to have these discussions in the comments while the episodes are still fresh in people's minds.

[@shironerisilk]

This is probably my favorite episode ever. Not the best of the entire series (I think that would be Sardines) but my favorite still.

[@jamie05601]

I’d like to see an episode of A Place in the Sun end with a vampire twist. Would be tricky given the prevalence of sun, but I’m sure it would be compelling viewing.

[@WeeLin]

"A Place Out of the Sun" might be more appropriate.

[@drewcampbell7702]

Loved the series, with Love's Great Adventure still my favourite. The subtlety of the plotting, the deftness of the characterisations, the delicacy of the performances - the whole thing was just a joy. Thinking Out Loud was quite brilliant too, and runs a very close second. All subject to a re-watch of the series, of course, and since I'm self-isolating for at least a fortnight I'm going to save as a wee treat for next week. Indeed, depending on how things go I might start at the beginning again. Re 'The Stakeout' I was a tad disappointed. Clever, but not satisfying, though it did keep me hooked right until the twist.

[@WeeLin]

I can understand that about the ending to The Stakeout - it does come out of nowhere, and kind of changes the whole tone of the episode. I enjoyed it a lot though. Sorry you're self-isolating, and I hope you're not going too stir crazy. But a IN9 rewatch is always a good idea!

[@drewcampbell7702]

@@WeeLin Thank you. Hope you're keeping well.

[@jgreen7100]

I liked this episode but I wasn't a big fan of the twist. Even though there were hints throughout, it still felt too out of the blue for me since it didn't feel like this cop drama could go in a supernatural direction. When the twist was revealed, I actually laughed out loud cos it just felt too silly. Though the main thing I didn't like was that you really grew to like these two characters and was rooting for them to be friends so when it's revealed that it was all just an act on Varney's part, I was quite disappointed. It just felt like a waste to build up this friendship between the two characters that felt really genuine only to reveal that Varney didn't actually care about Thompson. The one thing I did like about the twist was the way it played off the beginning. I did think it was clever that you think the ending has already been revealed so you're just waiting to see the events that lead up to Varney's death whereas in reality, the ending is not what you thought you knew. (And the best vampire was Steve in The 12 Days of Christine)

[@WeeLin]

A vampire? I thought he was a zombie waiter, or Tony the Tiger! Yeah, I did feel a little bit sad myself after watching the friendship between the characters develop. It was just long enough to get invested. The suddenness of it all really threw me too, and I wasn't sure quite what to make of it at first. Still a great episode though, in my opinion.

[@jgreen7100]

@@WeeLin Yeah I still liked the episode, always like seeing just the two of them play off each other. I thought perhaps they could have hinted at a supernatural element in a slightly more obvious way rather than specifically referencing vampires in a very subtle way. For example throughout the episode, Thompson could keep seeing his old partner out of the car window and it could be explained away as a symptom of PTSD but would also alert the audience that there could be a supernatural explanation for it like he's a ghost or something. In that way, it wouldn't feel so random when a realistic police drama turns into a supernatural horror but also wouldn't give away that vampires specifically were involved. Idk though maybe that would make it too easy to figure out the twist.

[@Katielovegood44]

This is the first I heard of a season 6 and 7 lol Glad I didn't hear a year ago.. too must excitement far too early haha

[@WeeLin]

Great news about series 6... it's already been filmed! No release date as yet, but very exciting! They've made some cast announcements too if you're interested.

[@bobgunter9608]

Trailer for the new season released yesterday

[@WeeLin]

Yep, very excited! I think I'll do some more of these "first impression" style reviews for series 6.

[@sirbenjaminthebold3943]

Im a bit late but my favourite episode of the series was Death Be Not Proud and i didn’t enjoy this series as much as the previous three (2,3 and 4) but i still enjoyed every episode, cant wait for the next season if there is one.

[@WeeLin]

In that case, good news - they've already been filming series 6 AND they've been confirmed for series 7. I actually screamed at the TV when David appeared in Death Be Not Proud - the last thing I was expecting was a crossover. Plus I was convinced the world had just forgotten about Psychoville.

[@sirbenjaminthebold3943]

@@WeeLin i’m not going to lie i hadn’t watched Psychoville so i was confused as to why David (Steve’s) Mum was Reece in drag but i thought the episode was top entertainment, ill probably watch Psychoville next if its worth watching.

[@Alex-cw3rz]

Great video

[@zoeknapp8996]

I don't know why I didn't like this episode but I think maybe I'm just not a big fan of vampires or supernatural things like that. I do appreciate how well the twists were laid out/ how the episode was written though because i had no idea about the twist on first viewing but I can notice a lot of them on a second watch

[@WeeLin]

I suppose if you don't like vampires then it's not going to be the best ending. I felt a bit silly not noticing any of the vampire references on the first watch, because it seems so obvious once you know. It does make for a great second watch though!

[@eileenflannigan709]

Thanks for your review. Strangely, when I first watched this live, I somehow missed the opening scene showing Reece dead - so on second viewing, I saw that scene after knowing how the story panned out. I think the ending was more of a shock the first time round, because I wasn't primed to expect a gory ending. I don't mind gore per se, but I think the permutations were broader without the first scene. After all, not every episode involves a murder. For me, not a favourite episode. Much like in The Bill, I was enjoying the interplay between the characters and felt the exaggerated twist was unnecessary. Or maybe it's just that I'm not moved either way by vampires. (I might change my mind if they made Dot Cotton one: what a way to bow out of a long-running series - or has that storyline already been done?!)

[@WeeLin]

Damn... if you missed the intro, then that ending must have really come out of nowhere! While I enjoy gore effects, I'm always aware that they're not for everyone, and that's fine. I think you're right in saying the interplay between the characters was stronger than the ending in a way - honestly, they could have written a straight-up cop drama, and I would have enjoyed it. I don't watch soaps, but I'd make an exception for Dot Cotton vampire!

[@EarlOfWarwick1561]

3k subs now! What a bizarre and...funny(?!) twist!

[@WeeLin]

Mad, isn't it? I've not even done that many videos since this one. And yet somehow, they still find me!

[@EarlOfWarwick1561]

@@WeeLin All well-deserved attention! Lovely reviews of a lovely show in a lovely accent ^^

[@daverage4729]

Come Dine with me meets vampires. Lol! I can see it in my minds eye. :)

[@WeeLin]

The title even sounds like something a vampire host might say to their unsuspecting human victims, who only came over so they could bitch about the beef wellington!

[@exodiasmith7276]

I have to go against the consensus here and say that I didn’t actually like the ending of this episode. I didn’t like the fact that it started out as a dark police drama and turned into vampire episode at the end. It’s just a pet hate of mine when a film or TV programme changes genres at the end (imagine if your watching a rom-com and it turns into an action movie at the end). A good example of this is the movie Flightplan which starts out as a thriller, but turns into an action movie at the end, but I digress. Overall with this one exception I’ve enjoyed Season 5 of Inside No 9 and my favourite episode would have to be Death Be Not Proud, purely for the Psychoville nostalgia. My favourite scene from season 5 would have to be Diana’s rendition of Amazing Grace from Thinking Out Loud. Looking forward to season’s 6 & 7

[@WeeLin]

I can see why the genre switch would be so jarring and would probably annoy a lot of viewers, but personally, I'm fine with just about anything that randomly turns into a vampire story! Death Be Not Proud certainly got the biggest reaction out of me, and I hope I didn't freak out the neighbours. My personal favourite from any series can change while I re-watch it, but for now it's Misdirection for series 5. I just really loved the theme and how it all came together. Roll on series 6 and 7!

[@exodiasmith7276]

@@WeeLin I definitely enjoyed Misdirection, a classic number 9 episode with a great deal of suspense and one that warrants a repeat viewing. Death Be Not Proud had me jumping on my seat and squealing like a baby, though thanks to Death Be Not Proud I know I’m not the only grown up baby out there! Also I’ll never hear Solider Boy in quite the same way again

[@rixx46]

AND congratulations on 7000 + subscribers. If this keeps up you will have to start selling t-shirts and mousepads!

[@WeeLin]

Thanks, but it's only 2000 at the moment! We'll save the mousepads for the time being, I guess.

[@BlackStrawberry79]

please make a video about nighty night. I watched it for the first time last week and was shocked, its so dark and just insane, toes the line between hilarious and absolutely depressing and tragic. I was surprised it was so underrated - a dark comedy show written by a woman with this insane trail-blazing destructive psychopathic woman at its centre. I had no idea shows like this were being made in the early noughties. it seems like it paved the way for many shows and characters (eg fleabag, villanelle in killing eve etc) that are becoming more prominent now. idk if I was just reading too deep into a shallow comedy but it felt really poignant and a little bit before it's time. idk maybe that's just weird.

[@WeeLin]

I was warned how dark Nighty Night was, and even I was surprised. And almost no-one talks about it! I think you're right, and it was ahead of its time in a lot of ways. Julia Davis was unbelievably good in it, as was Mark Gatiss. I haven't watched it through for a long time though - maybe I'll do that soon and see if there's a video in it? I'd actually thought of including Nighty Night before as part of a "favourite comedies about horrible people", but maybe it deserves its own video. I haven't seen Fleabag, so maybe I should watch that too for comparison. Thanks for the suggestion, and for reminding me to give an underrated show a re-watch!

[@droberts4791]

Unfortunately I didn't particularly enjoy this one, just kind of felt like the vampire thing was too random of a twist. I get that there was lots of foreshadowing but I dunno I just felt like - really vampires?

[@WeeLin]

While I loved it, I completely get how it could seem out of left field and kind of silly, especially in a supposed cop drama. I think those two are just weird enough to get away with it.

[@theojohnson2218]

Honestly this episode was very well done, as you said all the clues were there, the opening scene confused me partly because voice overs from already dead characters didn't seem particularly inside number 9 and partly because why was he bleeding from his mouth and in the backseat - it felt off to me but despite that and despite us knowing that traditionally episode 6 of inside number 9 series involve something supernatural I was still sure it was going to end up with the new partner murdered somehow. Not my favourite of the season I adore both misdirection and rather unusually it would seem Love's great adventure but overall still very good. My favourite moment would likely be the final reveal of misdirection just thought the revelation was well done and was very much something that made me audibly gasp. Least favourite moment would probably be the ending to "thinking out loud" just because it seemed like such a wasted opportunity. Controversially my least favourite episode of the season was "Death be not proud" I am not someone who was watched pyschoville and I found certain scenes rather disturbing and uncomfortable which I suspect is the point but nevertheless ruined the episode a little for me especially since I wasnt entirely expecting it.

[@WeeLin]

I thought the voiceover might just be something a bit different, and the bleeding from the mouth thing is something I always take in films to mean "yup, that guy's dead!" As for your take on Death Be Not Proud, even as a Psychoville fan I can tell that some parts of the show are discomforting and not to everyone's taste. Love's Great Adventure surprised me too, and I also agree that Thinking Out Loud had some wasted opportunities, especially towards the end. Still, great series overall!

[@theojohnson2218]

@@WeeLin Definitely agree I enjoyed the series alot and yes in a more experimental series I dismissed it as that as well just stuck with me as a bit off as it went on

[@sonicradioetuf]

All the way through my mum thought that Steve's character was the killer of his partner and I can see where she was coming from but I honestly ruled him out as that would have been too obvious and Inside No 9 doesn't really do obvious, also as Series 5 of Inside No 9 was my first, I am a bit biased here in saying that it's my favourite series although after watching every episode twice (How did I not get around to watching IO9 earlier) I have a list of my personal favourite top 9 Inside no 9 episodes in no order. Tom and Gerri Riddle Of The Sphinx A Quiet Night in La Couchette Private View Dead Line Once Removed Tempting Fate Death Be Not Proud Honourable Mention: The Referee's a W*nker (That would be my 10th favourite)

[@WeeLin]

I see where your mum was coming from - I thought that maybe Steve hadn't murdered his partner directly, but got him killed because of some dodgy stuff he'd been up to on the side. And yet, it really didn't seem to fit his character. Did NOT expect the twist this time!

[@sonicradioetuf]

@@WeeLin Neither me nor my mum expected the twist tbh but then again a good twist in a story always catches the reader/viewer/player ETC off guard (Highly recommend the Danganronpa series for really good twists BTW) (Even though I am into supernatural stuff, for some reason I thought maybe Dobbo didn't really die, although as soon Varney started on the vampire riddle, that's when it clicked for me.

[@oddjob5589]

cheers for a from dusk til dawn reference! will you marry me?

[@WeeLin]

How could I not mention that other "and suddenly, there were vampires" moment? Flattered, but spoken for - cheers!

[@KetanNagre]

I don't get the vampire side of story if anyone can list out all vampire references then it will be easy for me to understand. This episode is not for me.

[@WeeLin]

Sure, here's what I can remember... Apart from the ones I mentioned (having to be invited in, can't cross running water, his aversion to the food loaded with garlic), he mentioned being too "long in the tooth" (i.e. vampire fangs, also their old age) and that when he slept in the daytime he was "dead to the world". Apparently the name "Varley" was also a vampire character in an old Penny Dreadful. He's also obsessed with Steve's blood pressure, and mentioned that he's vegan apart from "once a month", which I guess is when he feeds off humans (by the full moon maybe?). He didn't get the riddle about coffins (because while normally dead people "don't know they're using it", a vampire would know). Also, the episode is called The Stakeout, which is also a reference to the wooden stakes used to kill vampires. I feel like I've missed a few others. But that's okay - vampires and that kind of horror isn't for everyone. I like it, but I accept that other people might find it a bit silly.

[@KetanNagre]

@@WeeLin thanks. But it didn't help me much as I did watched it again but don't know much about vampire things so yeh its ok that they tried different for different audience and its good. Will watch it again with this things known now. 😅

[@Comic3247]

I’m not being funny but, what was that ending

[@famousnoodle1661]

A brilliant ending

[@Comic3247]

william couldry obviously looking back on it it makes sense, but the first time I saw it I was like “rah”

[@WeeLin]

It's an ending I don't think could've worked on any other show, but because IN9 often dabbles in supernatural horror it does still fit. Also, an annoying amount of clues were right there from the beginning. As I say, it sounds silly out of context but it does work (imo).

[@Comic3247]

WeeLin I get what you mean, going back over it, its very obvious

[@Justmyhandle]

*+WeeLin* This isn't related to *Inside No 9,* but I thought you'd be interested to know that I just posted a blog I've been working on for months discussing 2020's upcoming *Candyman* film as well as how it looks (from what we know so far) to compare to the 1992 classic. I cited you as a research source. I hope that's okay, I linked your November 4, 2018 video *Candyman: Creating an Urban Legend* in the blog. Your work played a major role in my writing for this blog, and I wanted to credit you in hopes that more fellow horror fans would be drawn to your channel. I hope you enjoy, keep up the great work! 👍 *Blog Link:* www.horrormovietalk.com/2020/03/28/candyman-original-vs-reboot-2020/

[@WeeLin]

Thanks for linking - this is some fantastic work! I know exactly what you mean about Anthony/Helen's sacrifice, as it would sort of undermine her efforts and story arc in the first film (one of the reasons I choose to ignore the sequels is that I feel they undermine the original). I'm glad that my work could help, even in some small part, and thanks also for citing me - I've been ripped off in the past, and it's neither fun nor flattering, which is how some people expect it to be. Speaking of flattery, it's an honour to see my video in the sources there next to Ryan Hollinger and Coldcrashpictures - two greatly admired channels! I need to bookmark this site straight away, see what else is on there. Once again, a fantastic blog that I'm sure I'll want to re-read later. Keep up the great work!

[@Justmyhandle]

@@WeeLin Thanks, that means a lot coming from you. Your style of analysis is always fascinating to listen to. You've become one of my favorite horror critics, right up there with Ryan Hollinger, and I try my best to let what I learn from you all inform my own personal style. I don't have your experience yet, but I'm learning more and more as I practice. I appreciate you taking an interest in our site. My hope is that, with this blog & podcast, horror fans on KZbin + social media can collaborate more. The best case scenario would be: You, Ryan and others consider writing the occasional blog or review for Horrormovietalk, to help broaden our reach. At the same time, you'd have another outlet to advertise your channel.

[@Justmyhandle]

@WeeLin We could all help each other earn more public recognition while offering thoughtful critiques. It could also help massively if horror KZbinrs provided a tiny shout-out to promote Horrormovietalk in their videos (You'd be doing us a HUGE favor). It's an ambitious goal, I know. It certainly won't happen overnight, but we have the potential to make something special here, to expand Horrormovietalk into a sort of hub for online horror communities. People like you deserve that opportunity. So many fellow horror lovers listen to you, Ryan and others. If we had a means & motivation to cooperate more, who knows what can happen? It could benefit all of us! Nobody has to work for Horrormovietalk, especially those who already have other commitments (like you, with your channel) but every little contribution adds up. Even just one occasional blog, review, or shout-out counts toward something. KZbin hosts such vast talent from varied backgrounds, but by itself still limits our audience. I believe we can do more, become more, together. Please think about it and tell me if this idea appeals to you?

[@WeeLin]

@@Justmyhandle That all sounds fantastic, and you've got yourself a subscriber! While I can't promise anything right now (I've been surprisingly busy in lockdown between working full time from home and doing freelance jobs, plus my own channel), this is something I would consider collaborating in the future, maybe with a guest blog or something if I come up with a good idea. I'll be in touch if inspiration/free time strikes!

[@Justmyhandle]

@@WeeLin Awesome, glad to hear it! We're honored & flattered to have you as a subscriber, thanks. 👍 Yeah, I definitely understand balancing work with doing what you love. Like I said, there's no pressure whatsoever. Even just a small shout-out or endorsement for the website & podcast in one of your future videos would be more than enough for now. Whenever you get the spare time is totally fine. Again, I truly appreciate any/all support. Here is every link (again, just in case) for people to find us, let me know if you need anything else: *Main Website:* www.horrormovietalk.com/ *KZbin:* kzbin.info/door/2Xi64nyQbklnp-Bv9aeYmQ *Reddit:* www.reddit.com/r/horrormovietalk/ *Facebook:* facebook.com/horrormovietalkpod/ *Twitter:* twitter.com/horrormovietalk?lang=de