ITV viewers have taken to social media to voice their frustrations over apparent plot holes in the new crime thriller The Dark, which aired its latest episode on Monday night (July 13). The six-part series, starring Laura Donnelly as DCI Monica Kennedy, follows the detective as she investigates a series of eerily staged murders in the Scottish Highlands while grappling with her own traumatic past.
Episode Recap: Rob Wright's Death and Connections
In the previous episode, teenager Rob Wright (Aaron McVeigh) was found dead on his family's land after being left paralysed when someone climbed through his window. In Monday's episode, DCI Monica realised a connection between Rob's death and that of Jason Morgan, whose body was discovered in the rural Scottish countryside. Alongside DC Conor Crawford (Mark Rowley), Monica investigates links between the two boys, discovering that both are sons of workers at the local sawmill, run by Gloria MacLennan (Catherine McCormack).
The investigation takes a turn when they learn that Gloria's son, Owen MacLennan (Jack Hesketh), has a criminal record for a violent crime. When questioned, Owen admits he had nothing to do with the deaths, but something feels off. Later, Owen calls DCI Monica, seemingly ready to reveal information about the killer, but he is interrupted by a masked assailant. A struggle ensues as Monica rushes to his location, hearing the altercation over the phone. The episode ends with viewers left to wonder if Owen has become another victim and why he was silenced.
Viewer Complaints: Plot Holes and Confusion
Throughout the episode, viewers expressed confusion over certain aspects of the drama. One person tweeted: "#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 commented: "Must be looking for a fireman to carry someone down from that window." A third added: "Was killer on stilts! #TheDark." Some viewers also questioned the backstory, with one asking: "Has there been series 1 of this? I don't know anything about a cult?"
Despite the criticisms, many viewers praised the series. One wrote: "Well, this is rather good #TheDark," while another said: "This is the best new ITV drama in ages. Creepy AF #TheDark."
Upcoming Episode Preview
A synopsis for the next episode reads: "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 airs on ITV and is available to stream on ITVX.
