Murdoch Mysteries (2008–…): Season 7, Episode 3 - The Filmed Adventures of Detective William Murdoch - full transcript
Detective Murdoch and many others attend a special showing of a film that will also include sound. The man behind the scheme is James Pendrick and his main competitor, Thomas Edison, is also present for the showing. The film includes a scene where a shot is fired but when the lights come up, one of the patrons, Pendrick's principal investor, has been shot in the head. Thanks to an observation by Dr. Ogden, Murdoch concludes that the shot was intended for Pendrick himself. Pendrick decides to make a film about the cases of Detective Murdoch but in one scene, the actor playing Murdoch is shot by a real bullet. In the original script a character called constable Tom, played by Pendrick, was to be shot again seeming to confirm that Pendrick is the main target. With the investigation ongoing, movie making is proving to be a distraction.
This should be good.
Better be.
- What the devil is this?
- Some sort of listening device?
We all have them.
Mr. Pendrick certainly seems
intent on making a splash.
- Is everything synchronized?
- Yes sir.
All is in order. It better be.
- Mr. Edison you have my assurance...
- I don't give a hang about your assurances.
My assurance that I have utilized none
of your patented technology.
Let me be satisfied of that.
Even if I had, your patents
don't apply beyond the
borders of the United States.
Some of them do.
Now I'd like to look at your
sound synchronization system.
Absolutely not.
Now, if you'll excuse me,
I have a show to put on.
Keep an eye on him.
When is this bloody
thing gonna get started?
Ladies and gentlemen,
prepare to be amazed!
Bugger always was full of himself.
You are the first to witness a
new era in filmed entertainment.
Not only of sight, but sound.
No doubt you've all noticed these.
They're very easy to
use. Simply affix them.
Like this.
Now prepare to be
transported to a new world.
A world where all your senses are engaged!
See that?
I have to say, that was bloody good.
Indeed sir.
Ladies and gentlemen,
you've been very patient.
We appreciate that and we'll
let you leave as soon as we can.
Doctor?
- The bullet did not pass through.
- Right.
The shot had to have
come from this direction.
Everyone seated in this
section, please come forward.
I'd like a word.
No need to bother. I know who did this.
And I'll fetch him for you.
- What are you doing? Pendrick!
- This man.
He's tried to destroy me ever
since I got into this business!
- Could I have your name please sir?
- You surely don't think...
- Your name!
- Thomas Alva Edison.
No need to get excited, Mr. Pendrick.
- Many apologies Mr. Edison.
- Can I go?
Just bear with me. Murdoch, Murdoch.
There's someone here
you might like to meet.
Detective William Murdoch,
meet Mr. Thomas Edison.
Hey, it's a pleasure.
Detective Murdoch is something
of a tinkerer himself.
He's invented quite a
few ingenious devices.
Fascinating.
Mr. Edison, if I may,
what are you doing here?
I'm in your province to
check on my mining interests.
And I do enjoy a moving picture,
even when it's of a very low standard.
Oh, dream onward, Edison. You
only wish to achieve what I have.
I very much doubt that to be true.
I'm here because I suspect
this man of being a thief.
- I am not.
- We'll see about that.
I believe he is in violation
of several of my patents.
- I am not.
- May I go?
Certainly, Mr. Edison. Certainly.
You're letting a killer walk free.
He's Thomas bloody Edison!
Mr. Pendrick,
the victim was seated
in this reserved section.
- Did you know him?
- Sadly I did.
His name is George Bailey,
and he's my primary investor.
Someone shot him to destroy me
and that someone just walked out that door.
I have to leave.
I have another moving
picture I have to make and
my carriage driver is calling
at an ungodly hour tomorrow.
Good evening gentlemen.
Have you finished your questions?
- I suppose so.
- Ladies and gentlemen.
Thank you for your patience.
You're all free to go. Thank you.
- Crabtree!
- Sir?
Let's tear this place apart.
See if we can find any
trace of the murder weapon.
Sir.
Julia, I didn't know you were here.
I wouldn't miss the opportunity.
It was a rather good
moving picture, wasn't it?
Yes. Actually, I was watching the audience.
I took the occasion to study
how the audience reacted
to the images on the screen,
how the immersion of the senses
can take fantasy to reality.
Hmm.
Did you see or hear
anything out of the ordinary?
Just that people were
delighted with the experience.
Excuse us.
It's a pity he missed the ending.
The moving pictures were
remarkable, weren't they?
They were indeed George.
When the train was coming for us, I
thought I would jump out of my skin.
So did I George. Well, he
wasn't shot at close range.
No powder burns at all.
There it is.
38 caliber I believe.
We've yet to recover the murder weapon.
- William.
- Julia.
Sorry to interrupt. I was told
that I would find you here.
I thought of something that could
be of interest to your investigation.
- What's that?
- While I was observing the audience
at the moving picture I
noticed a number of things,
the most interesting
being that at certain times
the audience was so convinced
what they were seeing was real
that they turned their face
away or averted their eyes.
Doctor, I was just saying
much the same thing.
So if Mr. Bailey turned his head
during the gunshot sequence...
The killer may not have been
positioned where you'd thought he was.
Dr. Ogden, would you like to
accompany me to the theatre?
George, turn your head to the right.
- The other right.
- Oh right!
I thought you meant your right sir.
Is this the manner in which you
observed most of them reacting?
Yes. Some bowed their heads,
but most turned their
glances away from the screen.
Alright.
Let's assume that Mr. Bailey
reacted in this manner.
That would mean the shot came from...
Well, look at that.
- A bullet hole.
- Indeed it is.
- What is it, William?
- George.
Who else was sitting with Mr.
Bailey in this reserved section?
These were all people who contributed
to the making of the moving picture.
- And Mr. Pendrick?
- He was sitting in front of Mr. Bailey.
But he did get up and move.
- Was that before or after the shot?
- Before.
Well then,
perhaps our Mr. Bailey wasn't
the intended target after all.
George, I need you to get me the
most powerful torch you can find.
Sir.
And... now Dr. Ogden!
Did it work William?
Yes, thank you.
It would appear that Mr. Pendrick
is very lucky he was not in his seat.
It's a terribly exciting
venture, Mr. Pendrick
is undertaking, isn't it sir? Sir?
Moving pictures, George?
That's somewhat beneath Pendrick's
intellect, don't you think?
Sir.
- I see them.
- Oy! You! Stop there!
- Toronto Constabulary. Unhand that woman at once.
- What's going on?
- This isn't in the manuscript.
- Stop!
Oh, I see.
Murdoch, what did you have in mind
besides ruining my moving picture?
A question, Mr. Pendrick.
Why were you not in your seat
at the time of the shooting?
I returned to the projector.
I have a witness to that.
Besides the man who was
killed was my major investor.
- Certainly not someone I'd want to see harmed.
- Mr. Pendrick...
I had everything to lose and nothing
to gain by seeing that man die.
James, I...
Murdoch, why do you always
presume me to be guilty? I...
Mr. Pendrick! I don't
suspect you of anything.
Oh, that's refreshing.
Eleanor!
Develop that film.
See if there's anything we can use
that Detective Murdoch didn't ruin.
Right away Mr. Pendrick.
Did you come all this way
just to tell me I didn't do it?
No. Um...
Mr. Pendrick,
I suspect that someone
was trying to shoot you.
If anyone shot at me,
it was that damn Edison!
Thomas Edison is one of the
foremost inventors of our time.
I highly doubt that he tried to kill you.
That wouldn't be the
first time you were wrong.
James, come on, can we go to lunch?
Detective Murdoch are you
finished with my sweetheart?
Yes. Do I know you?
Fairchild.
Minerva Fairchild.
I go by Charlotte now.
Where are my manners? I'm so sorry.
Charlotte, this is
Detective William Murdoch.
So nice to meet my fans.
- Pleasure.
- Charlotte!
Uh, Wallace. Please,
please don't be a pest.
- I told you that we were through.
- I'll tell you when we're through.
Unhand her!
You are coming with me.
- I'm not finished with you.
- Mr. Pendrick, are you alright?
Miss, are you alright?
Yeah, I am. Thank you... for asking.
Uh, Crabtree. George Crabtree.
Such a strong name!
- Oh, do you think?
- George!
You are an engineer, yes?
So you could have devised
this scenario that I described?
Of course. But I didn't do it. I
was working late at the University.
Did anyone see you there?
This is ridiculous.
Certainly I was upset that
Charlotte left me for him.
But she's hardly worth murder.
Think of anyone
that may have seen you at the University.
I do believe I may have
misjudged you James.
You do have some brilliant ideas.
No offense taken, Thomas. And I
think you'd be an excellent addition.
Are you sure this is a real police station?
'Course it's a real bloody
- What do you think it is?
- Actors.
- Oh, I see, of course.
- And is that Detective Murdoch?
- One and the same.
I must talk to him.
Study him. Detective
Murdoch. Lincoln Prescott.
I am to be you.
I see.
Sir, what is going on?
I've agreed to let James
film parts of his moving
picture in Station House Four.
It's a ripping coppers and robbers yarn.
- He's found a role in it for me.
- Of course.
And the real murder
I'm to be investigating?
Oh, they'll stay out of your way, Murdoch.
May I help you?
Uh, no. Please, just carry on.
I told Lincoln that you were the
inspiration for the detective.
James mentioned Dr. Julia
Ogden. I'd like to see her again.
He's hinted at your tortured
association with her.
Sir, you're participating in this?
James and I agreed that
the moving picture could use
a touch of authenticity.
Would you have dinner with us this evening?
Lincoln and I would like to make
sure that you're accurately portrayed.
- Oh, I don't know...
- Oh, do be a sport, Murdoch!
Oh, I'm so sorry.
The, uh, invitation is for
Detective Murdoch alone and his
mysterious doctor.
Scotch.
The inspiration for a moving
picture, sir, that's quite something.
As would be finding the
man who killed Mr. Bailey.
Detective Murdoch, how
may I be of assistance?
I'm wondering if perhaps you saw this man
the night of the shooting.
- Sorry.
- Did you happen to see anyone else?
- Anyone who may have gone backstage?
- Only Mr. Edison, sir.
Edison?
Damn man wanted to check out
every aspect of this theatre.
Made sure we weren't guilty
of any patent violations.
- Dreadful pest.
- Thank you.
Sir, that's the second
mention of Mr. Edison.
It certainly is, George.
It's just so good to see you again, Doctor.
And you, Minerva.
Pardon me if I'm being indiscrete but...
what is Detective Murdoch to you?
- We're very good friends.
- Oh!
Is that it? There's
nothing... nothing more?
Charlotte, perhaps you're
being a little too prying.
I need to know who I am playing...
a modern woman or a church mouse.
If you're playing a modern
woman perhaps you shouldn't be
trying to define her through
her relationship with a man.
Besides, Charlotte,
the writer and director has some say
- in how your character acts.
- Some.
But, uh, my coroner is going
to be much more dynamic.
- Actually, I'm a psychiatrist now, not a coroner...
- I know, it's just...
I'm sorry, it's just very dreary,
speaking to morons.
I want to be
a woman of action.
- But how do you feel?
- I'm sorry?
Encountering these dastardly villains.
You must be afraid?
Well, I've never really thought about...
And the human cost? Surrounded by tragedy.
How do you sleep?
Eight hours. Rain or shine.
And the cost your work
must have on your soul!
William sees crime as an...
as an intricate puzzle.
- One which can always be solved...
- Yes, yes. But how does it affect you?
Hmm. I've never really considered how it...
I see.
The man truly is an island.
Mr. Pendrick, this latest venture of yours,
are you sure it's going to work?
Murder, crime as entertainment?
We have mystery novels.
I'm simply trying to
create a visual narrative.
Yes, I understand that but...
filmed depravity
is something completely different.
See, I'm willing to bet that you're wrong.
I believe that The Filmed Adventures
of Detective William Murdoch
will play to standing-room-only
crowds from coast to coast.
Moving pictures are
this century's predominant
form of entertainment...
I'm willing to bet on
it... for young and old.
I highly doubt that.
But I wish you luck.
Are you really going to call it that?
You there. Can you hold this for me?
Not my department.
Well, my job is the director.
But as you can see, I'm
playing a small role too.
And I'm still waiting to be
paid, Mr. Pendrick. Director sir.
You there.
Grip this. George.
Have we established
Mr. Wallace's alibi yet?
... a bit more atmosphere.
- Constable.
- Oh, I'm sorry sir.
It's all quite fascinating,
isn't it? And the Inspector, sir.
Having a makeup applied
as if he were a lady.
George, when you're ready
to tear yourself away,
perhaps you can find
out where Mr. Wallace was
- at the time of the murder.
- Sir, will do.
Excellent work, Detective Murdoch.
- Thank you sir.
- No, no, no.
Excellent work, Murdoch.
Excellent work, Murdoch.
- Excellent work, Murdoch.
- Dr. Grace, I wasn't expecting you.
- I thought I'd bring you these lab reports.
- I didn't request any lab re...
- Oh, the filming. Yes, of course.
- Is it true Lincoln Prescott is here?
Yes. He's the chap who's
playing Detective Murdoch.
Could you introduce me to him?
Constable Crabtree, could you
help practice my lines with me?
Me?
- Well, yes, I suppose so.
- Hello, I'm Emily Grace.
I have to practice my scene. But thank you.
Pendrick!
Alphonse?
I see that you're play-acting
as well as directing.
- What have you done to my manuscript?
- I made a few amendments.
Amendments? You've ruined it.
- I'd hardly say that.
- You have!
Murdoch can't be shot. It
has to be Constable Tom!
Alphonse, I am the director
and what I say goes!
But if you do it like that,
it doesn't make any sense.
In the third act, Tom is
the one who has to get shot.
The audience won't care about
Tom. Murdoch is the star.
But the ending won't make any sense at all.
It doesn't matter. There'll
be a terrific chase scene!
Idiot!
Bloody writers!
All they do is set the table.
The actors prepare the feast.
Quiet please!
And, places and...
let's act.
I'm sorry, I'm just not comfortable.
Stop filming.
What is it?
I'm not comfortable with how
this scene has been rewritten.
I had prepared all evening
to do it the other way.
Why?
Constable Tom should escort the criminal.
Not me. I am the Detective.
To touch the criminal is beneath me.
You're also the hero.
Mr. Prescott, please,
just take the young man to the
jail cell... took, took, took.
Detective Murdoch's style of
law enforcement is more cerebral.
- It's not this, uh, roughhouse.
- I could do it.
- Thank you, no.
- Perhaps George Crabtree could do it.
- It'd be nice to have a real policeman in the scene.
- Me?
- No, I couldn't possibly.
- You already have a real policeman.
Everybody please just take your places.
And... let's act.
And begin.
Come with me.
No!
No! Stop filming.
Fabulous, Mr. Prescott! Excellent!
It was very convincing!
Mr. Prescott? Mr. Prescott?
Mr. Prescott?
I don't know what happened.
Is he going to be alright?
The wound doesn't appear to be too serious.
How quickly do you think
he'll be back on his feet?
- I'd like to resume...
- He should rest for at least a couple of days.
Sorry, a couple of days? Not hours... days.
Days.
Lincoln, I'm so sorry. I'm
gonna have to relieve you.
Mr. Pendrick...
- Leave your costume at the door.
- I...
James, sweetie.
I, uh, I just had a bit of an idea.
I could replace him.
A female copper.
That's a bloody good one.
I just did what Mr. Pendrick told me to do.
- Which was?
- I was to enter the room
and shoot the man who was
escorting my partner in crime.
- The gun wasn't supposed to be loaded.
- But it was.
- The gun was loaded with a blank cartridge.
- Are you sure?
Of course I'm... are you
telling me I don't know my job?
No, but the gun you assured
me was loaded with a blank,
instead fired a live round.
When I put it on the table,
it was equipped with a blank.
Someone must have switched them.
Isn't it your responsibility
to oversee the items used in the
filming of this moving picture?
I've only got two hands.
Mr. Pendrick has been
working us like a tyrant
to get this moving picture finished.
- Without pay.
- Sir.
I'm wondering about this writer chap.
He was in the vicinity of the
weapon and he did offer a threat.
- Excellent idea, George. Find out where he...
- Lives? Already done that, sir.
I did have a love for
the stage as a young man.
But the call of duty to Queen and
Country denied me the opportunity.
Sir, we're off to question a witness.
Yes, yes, Murdoch. Carry on. Carry on.
Of course, the love of
the stage still courses
through my veins.
In fact, I was told I was bloody good.
Yeah.
- This is where the writer lives?
- Sir, as good as.
There he is now.
- Sir, a moment? I'm Detective William Mur...
- Yes.
I know who you are. He made me
name my damn manuscript after you.
A near fatal accident has occurred
where Mr. Pendrick is filming.
- Uh, was Pendrick hurt?
- No.
Oh, that's a shame. What happened?
Someone tampered with a
gun. An actor was shot.
An actor? Well at least
that's something. Which one?
- The one playing Murdoch.
- Ugh. Pendrick's a fool.
Constable Tom was the one
who was supposed to be shot.
- Pendrick's playing Constable Tom.
- And poorly, I'd wager.
- This is no laughing matter, sir.
- I never tampered with a gun.
I never fired a gun and
I'm certainly not involved.
When I choose a weapon...
I use this.
Thank you for your time.
So, according to that
chap's original manuscript,
the character who is being
shot was played by Pendrick.
Oh Murdoch.
Could I have a word?
You can't be serious.
But who better to play
Murdoch than Murdoch?
Mr. Pendrick, need I remind
you that I am searching
for someone who may be trying to kill you?
If that's the case, they may
be associated with this venture.
What better place to look?
But you want me to act.
That would compromise my ability to conduct
a proper investigation.
- On the contrary, you'd be closer to the action.
- As an actor.
Not a detective. Balderdash.
Acting is nothing more than standing
around all day and reciting a few words.
- What's so amusing?
- You.
Acting?
That's so ridiculous?
Well, it's just not something
I can imagine you doing.
I've heard that, apparently,
there isn't much to it.
Alright Mr. Pendrick.
You're on.
But I am only doing this
to aid my investigation.
Of course. Of course.
I certainly hope your math is up to snuff
- because your account...
- Murdoch.
- Are you ready to begin?
- Yes.
I have some questions about these words.
- Thoughts actually.
- Thank you, Murdoch. We'll talk about it later.
Stop.
Murdoch. What are you doing?
Checking for finger marks.
Is that... is that in the manuscript?
No, no, but it's what a
real detective would do.
Just do what's in the manuscript.
And... let's act.
And are you sure that you...
- Mr. Pendrick?
- What is it, Murdoch?
Why is this constable not wearing a hat?
A Canadian constable
would always wear a hat.
Stop filming.
I'm hoping
to distribute this moving
picture all over the world.
I don't want to confuse the audience.
Let's act.
Uh, Mr. Pendrick.
Yes Murdoch.
Why would I give the gun to him?
Idiot.
Because he shoots somebody later on.
It's in the manuscript.
A trained policeman would
never do such a thing.
I don't care.
I'm sorry, I have to stop you.
Uh, a real coroner would simply
not handle the body in such a...
- Hey, would you just mind your business?
- I'm just trying to help.
- Did I ask for your...
- Stop!
Mr. Pendrick, a real
coroner would simply not
- handle the body in such a man...
- He's been on me all day.
- No, no, no, I cannot work under these conditions.
- I know, I know.
- Sorry about that.
- Murdoch.
Um, could I have a quick word with you?
Yes.
Detective!
George.
He fired me.
I know sir, I know.
Alright. We should get
back to the station house.
- Begging your pardon, sir. I wonder if I might stay.
- Stay?
Mr. Pendrick needs me on set in 5 minutes.
I'll do your namesake proud, sir. Trust me.
It's not personal,
Murdoch. It's just business.
No offense taken. I'm very busy.
George Crabtree seems quite the natural.
Mr. Pendrick, you seem to
have much less staff today.
Yes, that damn Edison.
- Edison?
- He came by this morning
offering them jobs at his new film
studio... at rates I couldn't afford.
- And they took them?
- Like fish to water.
But I'll soldier on. William.
- Ladies.
- We heard the bad news.
Or good news depending
on how you look at it.
Perhaps George Crabtree will
be our next moving picture star.
Can everyone take your places, please?
Mr. Pendrick is ready to begin.
Took, took, took.
And places, and...
let's act.
Detective, we're gonna have
to take him to the morgue.
I'll alert the constables immediately.
And Doctor Ogden, thank you.
I don't think I could
have done this without you.
No, no, no.
Thank you Detective Murdoch. Thank you.
- Oh my.
- Alright. Stop. Stop.
Cut it out. Cut!
- What?!
- That was not in the manuscript.
The manuscript said I was
supposed to embrace him.
Well, that was a lot more than an embrace.
- Yeah, well perhaps it'll titillate the audience.
- It was titillating, yeah.
Emily!
George Crabtree.
You certainly enjoyed that.
No, no, no, no, no, I had
to kiss her back, Emily.
Otherwise it would ruin the moving picture.
Ruin the moving picture. In a pig's eye.
Oh Emily. No, no, no,
it's as a professional.
I don't have any feelings
when I kiss the pretty woman.
Play back some of the audio recording.
I want to make sure we're getting
Mr. Crabtree's voice.
Do I look like a man with time on my hands?
Mr. Pendrick! Stop! Stop it! Mr. Pendrick!
Mr. Pendrick!
- Are you alright?
- What?
Are you alright?
Yes, yes, I think so!
Murdoch, I think someone
is trying to kill me.
Yes, that's what I've been
trying to tell you all along.
You say Edison paid you a visit?
- What?
- Edison. Edison came by?
How much longer do you
plan on detaining me?
Until I get satisfactory
answers to my questions.
You were at the moving picture
theatre the night of the shooting.
Only to make sure Mr. Pendrick was
not violating one of my patents.
And I was not at your police station
during the other shooting you mentioned.
You were at the filming of
Mr. Pendrick's moving picture.
Poaching his workers.
I was simply offering them
better, more prestigious jobs.
Detective Murdoch, I'm an
inventor, plain and simple.
Not a murderer.
That very well may be,
but isn't it true that
Mr. Pendrick's sound technology
has outstripped your own?
I have no interest in sound.
I am on record stating
sound will be the death of moving pictures.
Perhaps because you have yet to master it.
I would master it.
If I had an interest. Which I do not.
But Mr. Pendrick has.
And that makes him a threat.
I am the holder
of more than 700 patents.
All of them unique inventions.
Mr. Pendrick is hardly a threat.
Either charge me
or let me go.
- Sir.
- Henry?
I took the liberty of examining
all the motion picture equipment
- on Mr. Pendrick's movie location.
- Really? And?
I found Mr. Edison's finger marks
on a number of pieces of equipment.
As I told you, I was there.
There were finger marks on the thing
that almost killed Mr. Pendrick, sir.
- Mr. Edison?
- Do you seriously believe that I would murder...
- I don't know, Mr. Edison.
- Detective Murdoch.
If I wanted to Harm
Pendrick, I would use weapons
far more devastating than any gun:
My attorneys.
Henry, show Mr. Edison our cells.
I can't...
- Are you charging me?
- Not as yet.
And good work Henry.
Your show of initiative has been noted.
Sir.
Mr. Edison.
- I said put the closer picture first.
- I'm sorry.
Mr. Pendrick, a moment of your time.
You have to pay attention, Eleanor.
I have watched this film a million times.
Then watch it a million and one.
- His finger marks? On my recording device?
- Yes.
And you're still not convinced?
He is ruthless.
But I find it hard to believe
that he would be that careless.
I'll trust your judgment, Murdoch.
I don't know why, but I will.
Mr. Pendrick?
I have a moving picture to finish.
If I don't I'll be ruined.
Yet again. But if you
continue you may be killed.
- Then I'll die for my art.
- Mr. Pendrick.
Art is a sculpture, a painting, poetry.
You're making a moving picture
starring Constable George Crabtree.
The exact moment of the gunshot...
Corresponds with the moment the
gunfighter raised his weapon.
Which we determined earlier
was aimed directly where
James Pendrick was sitting.
So the person behind the screen
had an exact knowledge of
the images on the screen.
And knew exactly when they would occur.
Mr. Edison?
Mr. Edison saw the moving
picture once, maybe twice.
Whoever was sitting behind this screen
had to have had an intimate
knowledge of the moving picture.
I have watched this film
a million times.
Eleanor Grimes.
Emily said they were filming
on Queen Street today.
Don't tell me. Is she taken
with the moving pictures as well?
I believe she's keeping an eye on George.
- Right.
- You know William,
I imagine you would have
made a fine film actor.
Thank you.
But I just can't abide
all the inaccuracies.
You might be my superior, but I have to say
you're the most incompetent
police officer I ever...
- Watch your mouth Murdoch or I'll...
- Or you'll what?
Solve a case without me?
I'm William Murdoch and you,
you're dirtying my coattails
from riding them so hard,
so just stand down and let me do my job!
And stop. Excellent work, Mr. Crabtree!
You're a dead man, Crabtree.
But sir, I'm simply reciting
what it says in the manuscript.
With just a little too much enthusiasm.
Develop this and have it on my desk.
Yes sir.
Mr. Pendrick, I wonder if I
might be able to have a word
with your assistant here. Miss Grimes.
Miss Grimes,
is it not true that you have made
three of your own moving pictures?
- I have.
- And you presented them to Thomas Edison?
He stole them from me.
I made the mistake of using
one of his film cameras.
Ah! So now you're but a lowly assistant.
I am more than that,
sir. I am a film editor.
Labouring under a man you
consider to be a lesser talent.
I beg your pardon?
Miss Grimes, if you were
to kill James Pendrick
and implicate Mr. Edison in the murder,
you'd be able to return
to your rightful place.
If that were true, I doubt it would work.
No man,
except the rare husband, would
ever take orders from a woman.
Miss Grimes, Mr. Edison's
finger marks were not
the only ones found on Mr.
Pendrick's sound recording equipment.
George.
Please escort Miss Grimes
to the station house
and test her finger marks.
That, my dear, is a woman of action.
- Did you manage to film that?
- Yes.
Excellent.
Excellent. Excellent.
Thank you, Dr. Ogden.
- I don't think I could have done this without you.
- No, no, no.
Thank you Detective Murdoch.
Thank you.
Oh my.
You might be my superior,
but I have to say you're
the most incompetent
- police officer I...
- Watch your mouth Murdoch or...
Or you'll what? Solve a case without me?
I'm William Murdoch and you,
you're dirtying my coattails
from riding them so hard,
so just stand down and let me do my job!
Well, I must say, I thought
I was bloody excellent.
Excellent indeed, sir.
Mr. Pendrick,
in spite of a few inaccuracies
you have made a roaring adventure.
Thank you, Murdoch. And if
it's a success I'll make more.
Excellent, Mr. Pendrick. I
do have a suggestion, though.
I trust it doesn't involve
further spooning with my girl.
No, it has to do with the
title of your moving picture.
The Filmed Adventures of Detective William
Murdoch hardly trips off the tongue.
And it would make for a very
long marquee. That's true.
- What do you suggest?
- Just...
The Murdoch Mysteries.
I like it.
It's snappier.
Bravo, Mr. Pendrick.
Get out of here.
- We should go into business together.
- I very much doubt that.
Come on, son.
With my technology and
your artist's vision,
we could take the world
by storm. My vision.
And my sound equipment, you mean.
We could utilize that. Mr. Pendrick.
I and a group of others are
considering going to California
to launch the motion picture industry.
- You could be a part of it.
- The motion picture industry will be here.
In Toronto, Canada.
I have no intention of going into
business with a scoundrel such as you.
Well, good luck to you.
I own all the theatres and all patents
on all moving picture
technology in the United States.
Who will you sell to?
I'll exhibit my moving
pictures in the great halls
- of Europe and France and Italy.
- England.
Won't be worth a bucket of spit.
Your Murdoch Mysteries
will never see the silver
screen south of the border.
Are you sure that was wise, Mr. Pendrick?
I don't need the United States.
Under my leadership Canada will be at the
forefront of the motion picture industry.
On that you have my word.
Gentlemen, thank you for your assistance.
Mr. Pendrick.
James, if you ever do decide
to make another moving
picture sir I'll call you.
The motion picture industry is
terribly exciting, isn't it sirs?
I do hope he succeeds.
- Murdoch.
- Sir.
You don't?
I'm not entirely sure I can
envy a future where everyone
wastes their lives staring at a screen
watching made-up stories.
Next Monday,
on the number one
Canadian murder mystery...
Good day, Mr. Holmes.
Gentlemen, doctor.
I have ascertained the
address of the missing woman.
That was bloody quick.
All new episode,
Murdoch Mysteries,
next Monday at 8:00 on CBC.
Better be.
- What the devil is this?
- Some sort of listening device?
We all have them.
Mr. Pendrick certainly seems
intent on making a splash.
- Is everything synchronized?
- Yes sir.
All is in order. It better be.
- Mr. Edison you have my assurance...
- I don't give a hang about your assurances.
My assurance that I have utilized none
of your patented technology.
Let me be satisfied of that.
Even if I had, your patents
don't apply beyond the
borders of the United States.
Some of them do.
Now I'd like to look at your
sound synchronization system.
Absolutely not.
Now, if you'll excuse me,
I have a show to put on.
Keep an eye on him.
When is this bloody
thing gonna get started?
Ladies and gentlemen,
prepare to be amazed!
Bugger always was full of himself.
You are the first to witness a
new era in filmed entertainment.
Not only of sight, but sound.
No doubt you've all noticed these.
They're very easy to
use. Simply affix them.
Like this.
Now prepare to be
transported to a new world.
A world where all your senses are engaged!
See that?
I have to say, that was bloody good.
Indeed sir.
Ladies and gentlemen,
you've been very patient.
We appreciate that and we'll
let you leave as soon as we can.
Doctor?
- The bullet did not pass through.
- Right.
The shot had to have
come from this direction.
Everyone seated in this
section, please come forward.
I'd like a word.
No need to bother. I know who did this.
And I'll fetch him for you.
- What are you doing? Pendrick!
- This man.
He's tried to destroy me ever
since I got into this business!
- Could I have your name please sir?
- You surely don't think...
- Your name!
- Thomas Alva Edison.
No need to get excited, Mr. Pendrick.
- Many apologies Mr. Edison.
- Can I go?
Just bear with me. Murdoch, Murdoch.
There's someone here
you might like to meet.
Detective William Murdoch,
meet Mr. Thomas Edison.
Hey, it's a pleasure.
Detective Murdoch is something
of a tinkerer himself.
He's invented quite a
few ingenious devices.
Fascinating.
Mr. Edison, if I may,
what are you doing here?
I'm in your province to
check on my mining interests.
And I do enjoy a moving picture,
even when it's of a very low standard.
Oh, dream onward, Edison. You
only wish to achieve what I have.
I very much doubt that to be true.
I'm here because I suspect
this man of being a thief.
- I am not.
- We'll see about that.
I believe he is in violation
of several of my patents.
- I am not.
- May I go?
Certainly, Mr. Edison. Certainly.
You're letting a killer walk free.
He's Thomas bloody Edison!
Mr. Pendrick,
the victim was seated
in this reserved section.
- Did you know him?
- Sadly I did.
His name is George Bailey,
and he's my primary investor.
Someone shot him to destroy me
and that someone just walked out that door.
I have to leave.
I have another moving
picture I have to make and
my carriage driver is calling
at an ungodly hour tomorrow.
Good evening gentlemen.
Have you finished your questions?
- I suppose so.
- Ladies and gentlemen.
Thank you for your patience.
You're all free to go. Thank you.
- Crabtree!
- Sir?
Let's tear this place apart.
See if we can find any
trace of the murder weapon.
Sir.
Julia, I didn't know you were here.
I wouldn't miss the opportunity.
It was a rather good
moving picture, wasn't it?
Yes. Actually, I was watching the audience.
I took the occasion to study
how the audience reacted
to the images on the screen,
how the immersion of the senses
can take fantasy to reality.
Hmm.
Did you see or hear
anything out of the ordinary?
Just that people were
delighted with the experience.
Excuse us.
It's a pity he missed the ending.
The moving pictures were
remarkable, weren't they?
They were indeed George.
When the train was coming for us, I
thought I would jump out of my skin.
So did I George. Well, he
wasn't shot at close range.
No powder burns at all.
There it is.
38 caliber I believe.
We've yet to recover the murder weapon.
- William.
- Julia.
Sorry to interrupt. I was told
that I would find you here.
I thought of something that could
be of interest to your investigation.
- What's that?
- While I was observing the audience
at the moving picture I
noticed a number of things,
the most interesting
being that at certain times
the audience was so convinced
what they were seeing was real
that they turned their face
away or averted their eyes.
Doctor, I was just saying
much the same thing.
So if Mr. Bailey turned his head
during the gunshot sequence...
The killer may not have been
positioned where you'd thought he was.
Dr. Ogden, would you like to
accompany me to the theatre?
George, turn your head to the right.
- The other right.
- Oh right!
I thought you meant your right sir.
Is this the manner in which you
observed most of them reacting?
Yes. Some bowed their heads,
but most turned their
glances away from the screen.
Alright.
Let's assume that Mr. Bailey
reacted in this manner.
That would mean the shot came from...
Well, look at that.
- A bullet hole.
- Indeed it is.
- What is it, William?
- George.
Who else was sitting with Mr.
Bailey in this reserved section?
These were all people who contributed
to the making of the moving picture.
- And Mr. Pendrick?
- He was sitting in front of Mr. Bailey.
But he did get up and move.
- Was that before or after the shot?
- Before.
Well then,
perhaps our Mr. Bailey wasn't
the intended target after all.
George, I need you to get me the
most powerful torch you can find.
Sir.
And... now Dr. Ogden!
Did it work William?
Yes, thank you.
It would appear that Mr. Pendrick
is very lucky he was not in his seat.
It's a terribly exciting
venture, Mr. Pendrick
is undertaking, isn't it sir? Sir?
Moving pictures, George?
That's somewhat beneath Pendrick's
intellect, don't you think?
Sir.
- I see them.
- Oy! You! Stop there!
- Toronto Constabulary. Unhand that woman at once.
- What's going on?
- This isn't in the manuscript.
- Stop!
Oh, I see.
Murdoch, what did you have in mind
besides ruining my moving picture?
A question, Mr. Pendrick.
Why were you not in your seat
at the time of the shooting?
I returned to the projector.
I have a witness to that.
Besides the man who was
killed was my major investor.
- Certainly not someone I'd want to see harmed.
- Mr. Pendrick...
I had everything to lose and nothing
to gain by seeing that man die.
James, I...
Murdoch, why do you always
presume me to be guilty? I...
Mr. Pendrick! I don't
suspect you of anything.
Oh, that's refreshing.
Eleanor!
Develop that film.
See if there's anything we can use
that Detective Murdoch didn't ruin.
Right away Mr. Pendrick.
Did you come all this way
just to tell me I didn't do it?
No. Um...
Mr. Pendrick,
I suspect that someone
was trying to shoot you.
If anyone shot at me,
it was that damn Edison!
Thomas Edison is one of the
foremost inventors of our time.
I highly doubt that he tried to kill you.
That wouldn't be the
first time you were wrong.
James, come on, can we go to lunch?
Detective Murdoch are you
finished with my sweetheart?
Yes. Do I know you?
Fairchild.
Minerva Fairchild.
I go by Charlotte now.
Where are my manners? I'm so sorry.
Charlotte, this is
Detective William Murdoch.
So nice to meet my fans.
- Pleasure.
- Charlotte!
Uh, Wallace. Please,
please don't be a pest.
- I told you that we were through.
- I'll tell you when we're through.
Unhand her!
You are coming with me.
- I'm not finished with you.
- Mr. Pendrick, are you alright?
Miss, are you alright?
Yeah, I am. Thank you... for asking.
Uh, Crabtree. George Crabtree.
Such a strong name!
- Oh, do you think?
- George!
You are an engineer, yes?
So you could have devised
this scenario that I described?
Of course. But I didn't do it. I
was working late at the University.
Did anyone see you there?
This is ridiculous.
Certainly I was upset that
Charlotte left me for him.
But she's hardly worth murder.
Think of anyone
that may have seen you at the University.
I do believe I may have
misjudged you James.
You do have some brilliant ideas.
No offense taken, Thomas. And I
think you'd be an excellent addition.
Are you sure this is a real police station?
'Course it's a real bloody
- What do you think it is?
- Actors.
- Oh, I see, of course.
- And is that Detective Murdoch?
- One and the same.
I must talk to him.
Study him. Detective
Murdoch. Lincoln Prescott.
I am to be you.
I see.
Sir, what is going on?
I've agreed to let James
film parts of his moving
picture in Station House Four.
It's a ripping coppers and robbers yarn.
- He's found a role in it for me.
- Of course.
And the real murder
I'm to be investigating?
Oh, they'll stay out of your way, Murdoch.
May I help you?
Uh, no. Please, just carry on.
I told Lincoln that you were the
inspiration for the detective.
James mentioned Dr. Julia
Ogden. I'd like to see her again.
He's hinted at your tortured
association with her.
Sir, you're participating in this?
James and I agreed that
the moving picture could use
a touch of authenticity.
Would you have dinner with us this evening?
Lincoln and I would like to make
sure that you're accurately portrayed.
- Oh, I don't know...
- Oh, do be a sport, Murdoch!
Oh, I'm so sorry.
The, uh, invitation is for
Detective Murdoch alone and his
mysterious doctor.
Scotch.
The inspiration for a moving
picture, sir, that's quite something.
As would be finding the
man who killed Mr. Bailey.
Detective Murdoch, how
may I be of assistance?
I'm wondering if perhaps you saw this man
the night of the shooting.
- Sorry.
- Did you happen to see anyone else?
- Anyone who may have gone backstage?
- Only Mr. Edison, sir.
Edison?
Damn man wanted to check out
every aspect of this theatre.
Made sure we weren't guilty
of any patent violations.
- Dreadful pest.
- Thank you.
Sir, that's the second
mention of Mr. Edison.
It certainly is, George.
It's just so good to see you again, Doctor.
And you, Minerva.
Pardon me if I'm being indiscrete but...
what is Detective Murdoch to you?
- We're very good friends.
- Oh!
Is that it? There's
nothing... nothing more?
Charlotte, perhaps you're
being a little too prying.
I need to know who I am playing...
a modern woman or a church mouse.
If you're playing a modern
woman perhaps you shouldn't be
trying to define her through
her relationship with a man.
Besides, Charlotte,
the writer and director has some say
- in how your character acts.
- Some.
But, uh, my coroner is going
to be much more dynamic.
- Actually, I'm a psychiatrist now, not a coroner...
- I know, it's just...
I'm sorry, it's just very dreary,
speaking to morons.
I want to be
a woman of action.
- But how do you feel?
- I'm sorry?
Encountering these dastardly villains.
You must be afraid?
Well, I've never really thought about...
And the human cost? Surrounded by tragedy.
How do you sleep?
Eight hours. Rain or shine.
And the cost your work
must have on your soul!
William sees crime as an...
as an intricate puzzle.
- One which can always be solved...
- Yes, yes. But how does it affect you?
Hmm. I've never really considered how it...
I see.
The man truly is an island.
Mr. Pendrick, this latest venture of yours,
are you sure it's going to work?
Murder, crime as entertainment?
We have mystery novels.
I'm simply trying to
create a visual narrative.
Yes, I understand that but...
filmed depravity
is something completely different.
See, I'm willing to bet that you're wrong.
I believe that The Filmed Adventures
of Detective William Murdoch
will play to standing-room-only
crowds from coast to coast.
Moving pictures are
this century's predominant
form of entertainment...
I'm willing to bet on
it... for young and old.
I highly doubt that.
But I wish you luck.
Are you really going to call it that?
You there. Can you hold this for me?
Not my department.
Well, my job is the director.
But as you can see, I'm
playing a small role too.
And I'm still waiting to be
paid, Mr. Pendrick. Director sir.
You there.
Grip this. George.
Have we established
Mr. Wallace's alibi yet?
... a bit more atmosphere.
- Constable.
- Oh, I'm sorry sir.
It's all quite fascinating,
isn't it? And the Inspector, sir.
Having a makeup applied
as if he were a lady.
George, when you're ready
to tear yourself away,
perhaps you can find
out where Mr. Wallace was
- at the time of the murder.
- Sir, will do.
Excellent work, Detective Murdoch.
- Thank you sir.
- No, no, no.
Excellent work, Murdoch.
Excellent work, Murdoch.
- Excellent work, Murdoch.
- Dr. Grace, I wasn't expecting you.
- I thought I'd bring you these lab reports.
- I didn't request any lab re...
- Oh, the filming. Yes, of course.
- Is it true Lincoln Prescott is here?
Yes. He's the chap who's
playing Detective Murdoch.
Could you introduce me to him?
Constable Crabtree, could you
help practice my lines with me?
Me?
- Well, yes, I suppose so.
- Hello, I'm Emily Grace.
I have to practice my scene. But thank you.
Pendrick!
Alphonse?
I see that you're play-acting
as well as directing.
- What have you done to my manuscript?
- I made a few amendments.
Amendments? You've ruined it.
- I'd hardly say that.
- You have!
Murdoch can't be shot. It
has to be Constable Tom!
Alphonse, I am the director
and what I say goes!
But if you do it like that,
it doesn't make any sense.
In the third act, Tom is
the one who has to get shot.
The audience won't care about
Tom. Murdoch is the star.
But the ending won't make any sense at all.
It doesn't matter. There'll
be a terrific chase scene!
Idiot!
Bloody writers!
All they do is set the table.
The actors prepare the feast.
Quiet please!
And, places and...
let's act.
I'm sorry, I'm just not comfortable.
Stop filming.
What is it?
I'm not comfortable with how
this scene has been rewritten.
I had prepared all evening
to do it the other way.
Why?
Constable Tom should escort the criminal.
Not me. I am the Detective.
To touch the criminal is beneath me.
You're also the hero.
Mr. Prescott, please,
just take the young man to the
jail cell... took, took, took.
Detective Murdoch's style of
law enforcement is more cerebral.
- It's not this, uh, roughhouse.
- I could do it.
- Thank you, no.
- Perhaps George Crabtree could do it.
- It'd be nice to have a real policeman in the scene.
- Me?
- No, I couldn't possibly.
- You already have a real policeman.
Everybody please just take your places.
And... let's act.
And begin.
Come with me.
No!
No! Stop filming.
Fabulous, Mr. Prescott! Excellent!
It was very convincing!
Mr. Prescott? Mr. Prescott?
Mr. Prescott?
I don't know what happened.
Is he going to be alright?
The wound doesn't appear to be too serious.
How quickly do you think
he'll be back on his feet?
- I'd like to resume...
- He should rest for at least a couple of days.
Sorry, a couple of days? Not hours... days.
Days.
Lincoln, I'm so sorry. I'm
gonna have to relieve you.
Mr. Pendrick...
- Leave your costume at the door.
- I...
James, sweetie.
I, uh, I just had a bit of an idea.
I could replace him.
A female copper.
That's a bloody good one.
I just did what Mr. Pendrick told me to do.
- Which was?
- I was to enter the room
and shoot the man who was
escorting my partner in crime.
- The gun wasn't supposed to be loaded.
- But it was.
- The gun was loaded with a blank cartridge.
- Are you sure?
Of course I'm... are you
telling me I don't know my job?
No, but the gun you assured
me was loaded with a blank,
instead fired a live round.
When I put it on the table,
it was equipped with a blank.
Someone must have switched them.
Isn't it your responsibility
to oversee the items used in the
filming of this moving picture?
I've only got two hands.
Mr. Pendrick has been
working us like a tyrant
to get this moving picture finished.
- Without pay.
- Sir.
I'm wondering about this writer chap.
He was in the vicinity of the
weapon and he did offer a threat.
- Excellent idea, George. Find out where he...
- Lives? Already done that, sir.
I did have a love for
the stage as a young man.
But the call of duty to Queen and
Country denied me the opportunity.
Sir, we're off to question a witness.
Yes, yes, Murdoch. Carry on. Carry on.
Of course, the love of
the stage still courses
through my veins.
In fact, I was told I was bloody good.
Yeah.
- This is where the writer lives?
- Sir, as good as.
There he is now.
- Sir, a moment? I'm Detective William Mur...
- Yes.
I know who you are. He made me
name my damn manuscript after you.
A near fatal accident has occurred
where Mr. Pendrick is filming.
- Uh, was Pendrick hurt?
- No.
Oh, that's a shame. What happened?
Someone tampered with a
gun. An actor was shot.
An actor? Well at least
that's something. Which one?
- The one playing Murdoch.
- Ugh. Pendrick's a fool.
Constable Tom was the one
who was supposed to be shot.
- Pendrick's playing Constable Tom.
- And poorly, I'd wager.
- This is no laughing matter, sir.
- I never tampered with a gun.
I never fired a gun and
I'm certainly not involved.
When I choose a weapon...
I use this.
Thank you for your time.
So, according to that
chap's original manuscript,
the character who is being
shot was played by Pendrick.
Oh Murdoch.
Could I have a word?
You can't be serious.
But who better to play
Murdoch than Murdoch?
Mr. Pendrick, need I remind
you that I am searching
for someone who may be trying to kill you?
If that's the case, they may
be associated with this venture.
What better place to look?
But you want me to act.
That would compromise my ability to conduct
a proper investigation.
- On the contrary, you'd be closer to the action.
- As an actor.
Not a detective. Balderdash.
Acting is nothing more than standing
around all day and reciting a few words.
- What's so amusing?
- You.
Acting?
That's so ridiculous?
Well, it's just not something
I can imagine you doing.
I've heard that, apparently,
there isn't much to it.
Alright Mr. Pendrick.
You're on.
But I am only doing this
to aid my investigation.
Of course. Of course.
I certainly hope your math is up to snuff
- because your account...
- Murdoch.
- Are you ready to begin?
- Yes.
I have some questions about these words.
- Thoughts actually.
- Thank you, Murdoch. We'll talk about it later.
Stop.
Murdoch. What are you doing?
Checking for finger marks.
Is that... is that in the manuscript?
No, no, but it's what a
real detective would do.
Just do what's in the manuscript.
And... let's act.
And are you sure that you...
- Mr. Pendrick?
- What is it, Murdoch?
Why is this constable not wearing a hat?
A Canadian constable
would always wear a hat.
Stop filming.
I'm hoping
to distribute this moving
picture all over the world.
I don't want to confuse the audience.
Let's act.
Uh, Mr. Pendrick.
Yes Murdoch.
Why would I give the gun to him?
Idiot.
Because he shoots somebody later on.
It's in the manuscript.
A trained policeman would
never do such a thing.
I don't care.
I'm sorry, I have to stop you.
Uh, a real coroner would simply
not handle the body in such a...
- Hey, would you just mind your business?
- I'm just trying to help.
- Did I ask for your...
- Stop!
Mr. Pendrick, a real
coroner would simply not
- handle the body in such a man...
- He's been on me all day.
- No, no, no, I cannot work under these conditions.
- I know, I know.
- Sorry about that.
- Murdoch.
Um, could I have a quick word with you?
Yes.
Detective!
George.
He fired me.
I know sir, I know.
Alright. We should get
back to the station house.
- Begging your pardon, sir. I wonder if I might stay.
- Stay?
Mr. Pendrick needs me on set in 5 minutes.
I'll do your namesake proud, sir. Trust me.
It's not personal,
Murdoch. It's just business.
No offense taken. I'm very busy.
George Crabtree seems quite the natural.
Mr. Pendrick, you seem to
have much less staff today.
Yes, that damn Edison.
- Edison?
- He came by this morning
offering them jobs at his new film
studio... at rates I couldn't afford.
- And they took them?
- Like fish to water.
But I'll soldier on. William.
- Ladies.
- We heard the bad news.
Or good news depending
on how you look at it.
Perhaps George Crabtree will
be our next moving picture star.
Can everyone take your places, please?
Mr. Pendrick is ready to begin.
Took, took, took.
And places, and...
let's act.
Detective, we're gonna have
to take him to the morgue.
I'll alert the constables immediately.
And Doctor Ogden, thank you.
I don't think I could
have done this without you.
No, no, no.
Thank you Detective Murdoch. Thank you.
- Oh my.
- Alright. Stop. Stop.
Cut it out. Cut!
- What?!
- That was not in the manuscript.
The manuscript said I was
supposed to embrace him.
Well, that was a lot more than an embrace.
- Yeah, well perhaps it'll titillate the audience.
- It was titillating, yeah.
Emily!
George Crabtree.
You certainly enjoyed that.
No, no, no, no, no, I had
to kiss her back, Emily.
Otherwise it would ruin the moving picture.
Ruin the moving picture. In a pig's eye.
Oh Emily. No, no, no,
it's as a professional.
I don't have any feelings
when I kiss the pretty woman.
Play back some of the audio recording.
I want to make sure we're getting
Mr. Crabtree's voice.
Do I look like a man with time on my hands?
Mr. Pendrick! Stop! Stop it! Mr. Pendrick!
Mr. Pendrick!
- Are you alright?
- What?
Are you alright?
Yes, yes, I think so!
Murdoch, I think someone
is trying to kill me.
Yes, that's what I've been
trying to tell you all along.
You say Edison paid you a visit?
- What?
- Edison. Edison came by?
How much longer do you
plan on detaining me?
Until I get satisfactory
answers to my questions.
You were at the moving picture
theatre the night of the shooting.
Only to make sure Mr. Pendrick was
not violating one of my patents.
And I was not at your police station
during the other shooting you mentioned.
You were at the filming of
Mr. Pendrick's moving picture.
Poaching his workers.
I was simply offering them
better, more prestigious jobs.
Detective Murdoch, I'm an
inventor, plain and simple.
Not a murderer.
That very well may be,
but isn't it true that
Mr. Pendrick's sound technology
has outstripped your own?
I have no interest in sound.
I am on record stating
sound will be the death of moving pictures.
Perhaps because you have yet to master it.
I would master it.
If I had an interest. Which I do not.
But Mr. Pendrick has.
And that makes him a threat.
I am the holder
of more than 700 patents.
All of them unique inventions.
Mr. Pendrick is hardly a threat.
Either charge me
or let me go.
- Sir.
- Henry?
I took the liberty of examining
all the motion picture equipment
- on Mr. Pendrick's movie location.
- Really? And?
I found Mr. Edison's finger marks
on a number of pieces of equipment.
As I told you, I was there.
There were finger marks on the thing
that almost killed Mr. Pendrick, sir.
- Mr. Edison?
- Do you seriously believe that I would murder...
- I don't know, Mr. Edison.
- Detective Murdoch.
If I wanted to Harm
Pendrick, I would use weapons
far more devastating than any gun:
My attorneys.
Henry, show Mr. Edison our cells.
I can't...
- Are you charging me?
- Not as yet.
And good work Henry.
Your show of initiative has been noted.
Sir.
Mr. Edison.
- I said put the closer picture first.
- I'm sorry.
Mr. Pendrick, a moment of your time.
You have to pay attention, Eleanor.
I have watched this film a million times.
Then watch it a million and one.
- His finger marks? On my recording device?
- Yes.
And you're still not convinced?
He is ruthless.
But I find it hard to believe
that he would be that careless.
I'll trust your judgment, Murdoch.
I don't know why, but I will.
Mr. Pendrick?
I have a moving picture to finish.
If I don't I'll be ruined.
Yet again. But if you
continue you may be killed.
- Then I'll die for my art.
- Mr. Pendrick.
Art is a sculpture, a painting, poetry.
You're making a moving picture
starring Constable George Crabtree.
The exact moment of the gunshot...
Corresponds with the moment the
gunfighter raised his weapon.
Which we determined earlier
was aimed directly where
James Pendrick was sitting.
So the person behind the screen
had an exact knowledge of
the images on the screen.
And knew exactly when they would occur.
Mr. Edison?
Mr. Edison saw the moving
picture once, maybe twice.
Whoever was sitting behind this screen
had to have had an intimate
knowledge of the moving picture.
I have watched this film
a million times.
Eleanor Grimes.
Emily said they were filming
on Queen Street today.
Don't tell me. Is she taken
with the moving pictures as well?
I believe she's keeping an eye on George.
- Right.
- You know William,
I imagine you would have
made a fine film actor.
Thank you.
But I just can't abide
all the inaccuracies.
You might be my superior, but I have to say
you're the most incompetent
police officer I ever...
- Watch your mouth Murdoch or I'll...
- Or you'll what?
Solve a case without me?
I'm William Murdoch and you,
you're dirtying my coattails
from riding them so hard,
so just stand down and let me do my job!
And stop. Excellent work, Mr. Crabtree!
You're a dead man, Crabtree.
But sir, I'm simply reciting
what it says in the manuscript.
With just a little too much enthusiasm.
Develop this and have it on my desk.
Yes sir.
Mr. Pendrick, I wonder if I
might be able to have a word
with your assistant here. Miss Grimes.
Miss Grimes,
is it not true that you have made
three of your own moving pictures?
- I have.
- And you presented them to Thomas Edison?
He stole them from me.
I made the mistake of using
one of his film cameras.
Ah! So now you're but a lowly assistant.
I am more than that,
sir. I am a film editor.
Labouring under a man you
consider to be a lesser talent.
I beg your pardon?
Miss Grimes, if you were
to kill James Pendrick
and implicate Mr. Edison in the murder,
you'd be able to return
to your rightful place.
If that were true, I doubt it would work.
No man,
except the rare husband, would
ever take orders from a woman.
Miss Grimes, Mr. Edison's
finger marks were not
the only ones found on Mr.
Pendrick's sound recording equipment.
George.
Please escort Miss Grimes
to the station house
and test her finger marks.
That, my dear, is a woman of action.
- Did you manage to film that?
- Yes.
Excellent.
Excellent. Excellent.
Thank you, Dr. Ogden.
- I don't think I could have done this without you.
- No, no, no.
Thank you Detective Murdoch.
Thank you.
Oh my.
You might be my superior,
but I have to say you're
the most incompetent
- police officer I...
- Watch your mouth Murdoch or...
Or you'll what? Solve a case without me?
I'm William Murdoch and you,
you're dirtying my coattails
from riding them so hard,
so just stand down and let me do my job!
Well, I must say, I thought
I was bloody excellent.
Excellent indeed, sir.
Mr. Pendrick,
in spite of a few inaccuracies
you have made a roaring adventure.
Thank you, Murdoch. And if
it's a success I'll make more.
Excellent, Mr. Pendrick. I
do have a suggestion, though.
I trust it doesn't involve
further spooning with my girl.
No, it has to do with the
title of your moving picture.
The Filmed Adventures of Detective William
Murdoch hardly trips off the tongue.
And it would make for a very
long marquee. That's true.
- What do you suggest?
- Just...
The Murdoch Mysteries.
I like it.
It's snappier.
Bravo, Mr. Pendrick.
Get out of here.
- We should go into business together.
- I very much doubt that.
Come on, son.
With my technology and
your artist's vision,
we could take the world
by storm. My vision.
And my sound equipment, you mean.
We could utilize that. Mr. Pendrick.
I and a group of others are
considering going to California
to launch the motion picture industry.
- You could be a part of it.
- The motion picture industry will be here.
In Toronto, Canada.
I have no intention of going into
business with a scoundrel such as you.
Well, good luck to you.
I own all the theatres and all patents
on all moving picture
technology in the United States.
Who will you sell to?
I'll exhibit my moving
pictures in the great halls
- of Europe and France and Italy.
- England.
Won't be worth a bucket of spit.
Your Murdoch Mysteries
will never see the silver
screen south of the border.
Are you sure that was wise, Mr. Pendrick?
I don't need the United States.
Under my leadership Canada will be at the
forefront of the motion picture industry.
On that you have my word.
Gentlemen, thank you for your assistance.
Mr. Pendrick.
James, if you ever do decide
to make another moving
picture sir I'll call you.
The motion picture industry is
terribly exciting, isn't it sirs?
I do hope he succeeds.
- Murdoch.
- Sir.
You don't?
I'm not entirely sure I can
envy a future where everyone
wastes their lives staring at a screen
watching made-up stories.
Next Monday,
on the number one
Canadian murder mystery...
Good day, Mr. Holmes.
Gentlemen, doctor.
I have ascertained the
address of the missing woman.
That was bloody quick.
All new episode,
Murdoch Mysteries,
next Monday at 8:00 on CBC.