Viewers have labelled the British Nordic noir crime drama Marcella as a 'sublime and magnificent' series, calling it the ideal successor to Luther. The show, created by Hans Rosenfeldt of The Bridge fame, stars Anna Friel as Detective Sergeant Marcella Backland and is available to stream for free on ITVX.
What Is Marcella About?
The official synopsis reads: 'Marcella Backland left the Metropolitan Police for the sake of her family, only to have her husband leave her. She returns to her job on the murder squad, investigating a case that seems disturbingly familiar to her.' The series aired its first season on ITV in April 2016, followed by a second in February 2018. The third and final season was released globally on Netflix in June 2020 and on ITV in the UK in January 2021. Creator Hans Rosenfeldt and lead actress Anna Friel have indicated a fourth season is unlikely.
Critical and Fan Acclaim
Marcella has drawn glowing praise from critics and viewers. One reviewer described it as 'complex, ultradark, and filled with more red herrings than an Agatha Christie novel, Marcella is a unique, powerful crime drama.' Another said: 'Marcella stands out as a show that allows its central strong female character to have flaws.'
Fans have been equally captivated. One wrote on social media: 'I recommend it, very intriguing. Keeps you on your toes. Anna Friel's detective is a nutcase! Brilliant.' Another characterized it as: 'Dark, gripping, suspenseful. Basically, the female version of Luther.' On IMDB, a user commented: 'Very good British crime. Typical British modern time crime, and for who like this is brilliant. On the same level as Luther.' Another added: 'A MUST-SEE! I was GRIPPED! If you love thrillers, awesome plot twists and who-dunnits then this is 100% for you!'
Awards and Production
Anna Friel won the International Emmy Award for Best Actress in 2017 for her role in Marcella. The series was filmed in London and the Port of Dover, featuring an ensemble cast including Nicholas Pinnock, Ray Panthaki, Jamie Bamber, Jack Doolan, Amanda Burton, Sophia Brown, and Aaron McCusker across its three seasons.
Where to Watch
Marcella is available to stream for free on ITVX and with a subscription on Netflix. Fans have praised the show for its binge-worthy quality, with one viewer saying: 'I binged all three seasons in just as many days and then wondered why I hadn't found this show sooner!' Another concluded: 'Hands down, BEST crime show I've seen since The Killing.'
