“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 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. “Paul Rhys is wonderful as Lucien Burgess, he
“...this is easily the darkest episode of the show so far, and I suppose it is morbidly fascinating in its portrayal of the victim...” Den of Geek · 15 years ago Luther S01E03 FRENCH HDTV
: 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.