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*Smiling and Beautiful Death* by R.D. Wingfield is a riveting radio play that stands out from the author's extensive repertoire. Known primarily for creating the character Inspector Jack Frost, Wingfield's talent for crafting clever, twist-filled mysteries is showcased in this 1976 play.
The story centers around an initial sense of predictability, which diverges from Wingfield's usual surprise-laden narratives. Despite this, the play manages to build significant suspense, keeping listeners engaged as they anticipate the known outcome.
Wingfield's plays are renowned for their sharp dialogue, clear-cut characters, and intricate action. "Smiling and Beautiful Death" continues this tradition, drawing listeners into a world of deceit and manipulation, where the eventual denouement underscores the overall unpredictability of human nature.
The main character, while not explicitly named in the overview, embodies the hallmark traits of Wingfield’s protagonists: resilience, intelligence, and an ability to navigate through complex, often perilous scenarios.
Wingfield's radio plays, including this one, were a critical part of his career, where he first honed his skills before transitioning his work to novels and television, notably through the character of Inspector Jack Frost, popularized on TV by actor David Jason.