“Paul Rhys is wonderful as Lucien Burgess, he really does stand out as one of the best of villains, certainly memorable.” IMDb Luther episode 3 review | Den of Geek
Reviews for generally describe it as the "darkest" installment of the series up to that point, praised for its intense acting but criticized by some for its grim, "over-the-top" subject matter. Critical Reception
: Some reviews on IMDb found the plot a bit of a "slow burn" or even "unbelievable nonsense" because of the extremes of the case, such as the killer's "satanic" rituals and drinking of blood. A reviewer from TVovermind admitted it was their least favorite because it felt "sick" and difficult to rewatch. Plot Overview Luther S01E03 FRENCH HDTV
: Burgess had avoided conviction ten years prior after being beaten by a police officer, making him legally "untouchable" unless Luther can find airtight evidence.
Critics and viewers highlighted several key aspects of the episode: “Paul Rhys is wonderful as Lucien Burgess, he
: Idris Elba (Luther) and Ruth Wilson (Alice) continue to receive high marks for their "acting masterclass," with Alice often described as "mesmerising" and "TV gold". Paul Rhys, guest starring as the villain Lucien Burgess, was noted for a "wonderful" and "chilling" performance.
: Reviewers at Den of Geek called it "morbidly fascinating" but noted it was "easily the darkest episode" due to the inhuman treatment of victims by the kidnapper. Plot Overview : Burgess had avoided conviction ten
The episode follows DCI John Luther as he tracks , an occult-obsessed killer who kidnaps a young mother and leaves satanic messages in blood on her walls.