Fans of crime dramas are feeling 'unsettled' by a gripping police series on BBC that has been compared to hits like Happy Valley and Silent Witness. The show, created by Chris Brandon, debuted in 2021 and is now available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
Bloodlands: A Thrilling Police Drama
Starring James Nesbitt as DCI Tom Brannick, the series is set against the stunning backdrop of Northern Ireland's Strangford Lough. The plot follows Brannick as he investigates a kidnapping case involving a former IRA operative, which leads him to a two-decade-old cold case of a serial killer known as 'Goliath'. The killer was never caught, and the case was closed, but it remains deeply personal for Brannick, whose wife is believed to be one of Goliath's victims.
The story focuses on Brannick's relentless pursuit of the elusive killer while facing pressure from senior officers who want the case to stay closed. Viewers are in for a shocking twist when the murderer's true identity is revealed, hitting closer to home than expected.
Viewer Reactions
One reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes praised the series, saying: 'Complicated but well presented who done it. Makes you want to stay up late to find out what comes out in the next episode.' Another added: 'Yes, it's grim and not always entirely logical but it is thrilling throughout and has a really good twist.'
The show is executive produced by Jed Mercurio, known for Bodyguard and Line of Duty, in collaboration with Hat Trick Productions. Mercurio's background as a former doctor and RAF officer brings a unique blend of expertise and storytelling to the series.
Series Structure
The first series is concise, with just four episodes, but it was enough to secure a second series in 2022, which had six episodes. Despite the longer run, audiences are still eager for more. One review states: 'Great performances. Just enough twists and turns to keep you wanting more.' Another notes: 'It was a good mystery drama, very grim, though. At first, you think you know what sort of story it will be, but it turns on its head halfway through and you remain a bit unsure and unsettled until the end.'
All episodes of Bloodlands are currently available to stream at no cost on BBC iPlayer.
