Full Episodes

Episode 32 – The Devil’s Foot

In this unique episode, Holmes and Watson travel to the coastal cliffs of Cornwall to exorcise their inner demons and solve the (possibly) supernatural mystery of The Devil’s Foot!  We also hear behind-the-scenes stories from actor Damien Thomas (the villainous Mortimer Tregennis), writer Gary Hopkins, and series violinist Katharine Gowers. Plus, discussion and listener telegrams!!

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5 thoughts on “Episode 32 – The Devil’s Foot

  1. I’m surprised giving up the drugs was so controversial, because it’s in the canon that Holmes does, eventually, and it’s due to Watson’s influence. I like the episode very much, and love the story’s atmosphere, even though the logistics are shaky. It’s unfortunate that some of the weaknesses of the text are more evident when dramatized. I also think the “John” works incredibly well, especially with the later comment “I have never loved.” It sort of highlights the reasons Holmes lets Sterndale go IMHO. Even if he’s never loved a woman, he’s clearly capable of deep and lasting affection–and possibly revenge.

    In an ideal world, perhaps the nervous exhaustion Holmes exhibits in the story might be a teeny bit more subtle. But the story is so horrifying (I remember as a child being completely creeped out by the idea of a drug that drives the user mad) it’s unforgettable, even though I think anyone who knew what it actually did would prefer being shot or beaten to death by Sterndale versus suffering the same punishment (I’d have run like hell that morning, if my sister’s lover showed up with the powder).

    1. Hey Mary. I think you’re right. The idea of “fraternal love” or platonic affection comes up a lot, I think this episode crystallizes it quite nicely… possibly even in just the single word line, “John!”

      I agree about the effects of the drug… if Mortimer had seen the result firsthand, you’d think he’d have legged it, even at the risk of being shot. Too much Cornish hospitality, perhaps!? -Luke (& Gus)

      1. Yeah, seriously! I mean, I understand why Doyle needed him there, but in the story it’s slightly more believable, because you can imagine there would have been a struggle! I do think the pacing of the scene is a wee bit slow, perhaps something that could be easier to fix today on film. I know criminals can be dumb, but even a weasel like Mortimer would try to run for a fighting chance at life.

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