ITV's new six-part crime thriller The Dark has left viewers on edge, with many watching through their fingers as DCI Monica Kennedy continues her hunt for a serial killer. The latest episode aired on Monday night, featuring actress Laura Donnelly as the lead detective.
Episode Recap: Rob Wright's Death and the Sawmill Connection
In the latest instalment, DCI Monica Kennedy investigates the deaths of two young men while grappling with personal demons. Teenager Rob Wright (Aaron McVeigh) was found dead on his family's land, following a previous attack where an intruder climbed through his window, leaving him paralysed. DCI Monica uncovers a link between Rob's death and that of Jason Morgan, whose body was discovered in the remote Scottish countryside.
Working with DC Conor Crawford (Mark Rowley), Monica establishes that both victims were sons of employees at the local sawmill, operated by Gloria MacLennan (Catherine McCormack). The case becomes more complicated when Gloria's son, Owen MacLennan (Jack Hesketh), is revealed to have a prior prison sentence for a violent offence. During questioning, Owen denies involvement, but something seems off, according to the Mirror.
Viewers React: Confusion and Criticism
Audiences took to social media to express their confusion over certain scenes. One viewer posted: "#thedark so there's a ceiling light on in the room, but the detectives need torches to see numpty boy. This is fast becoming a comedy." Another wrote: "Must be looking for a fireman to carry someone down from that window." A third commented: "Was killer on stilts! #TheDark." One puzzled watcher also asked: "Has there been series 1 of this? I don't know anything about a cult?"
Despite Criticism, Many Are Hooked
Despite the criticism, many viewers are thoroughly enjoying the programme. One posted: "Well, this is rather good #TheDark," while another declared: "This is the best new ITV drama in ages. Creepy AF #TheDark." One person shared: "I’m literally watching #TheDark with my hands over my eyes.. surely, I can’t be the only one." Another added: "Omggggggg and breathe."
Cliffhanger: Owen's Fate and a New Victim
Towards the episode's end, Owen phones DCI Monica, apparently desperate to reveal information about the attacks. He is then interrupted by a masked individual, and as the pair struggle, the detective races to the scene after overhearing the confrontation on the phone. Viewers are left questioning whether Owen has fallen prey to the killer and why someone is trying to silence him.
A synopsis for the next episode reveals: "DI Kennedy finds a clue to the next intended victim and has to battle to discover his whereabouts before it is too late. But just when it seems she has saved the young man, it becomes clear that the killer is actually playing with her and he has targeted someone else completely."
The Dark is available to watch on STV and STV Player.
