Der feine Geist

This Tatort episode has the Weimar Team working a case involving multiple victims of robbery, murder and other unpleasant forms of physical and emotional suffering.

The chief of the team early on declares his imminent retirement, and his plans to announce his successor shortly. Lupo, the least likely candidate to become the new team leader, seriously and gleefully entertains the idea of being the one to be picked by the departing boss. The likable Lupo with his goofy demeanor usually lightens any tense scenes with regular small doses of humor, akin to the Barney Fife character in the classic US TV sit-com "The Andy Griffith Show". Any promotion to the top of the police force is clearly not likely. - This more elaborate side-plot softens the blow for the unexpected shocker delivered at about the middle of the episode.

Will we say a final goodbye to the old boss? At the very emotional ending, we are not quite certain. We do gain a refreshed sense of gratitude for the role of police in our society as law enforcers, and protectors of the people. This particular story is a bit heavier than most Tatort episodes, definitely one to leave the audience with much cause for reflection.