Strike: BBC Crime Drama Better Than The Capture Returns
Strike: BBC Crime Drama Better Than The Capture Returns

The BBC crime drama Strike, often hailed as superior to The Capture, is now streaming and has captivated audiences since its 2017 debut. Starring Tom Burke and Holliday Grainger, the series is based on J.K. Rowling's Cormoran Strike novels, written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.

Plot and Characters

The story follows war veteran Cormoran Strike (Tom Burke), who becomes a private detective operating from a small office on London's Denmark Street. He is joined by his assistant and later business partner, Robin Ellacott (Holliday Grainger). Together, they tackle gruesome mysteries and complex cases while confronting their own personal struggles.

Six Series and Counting

To date, six series have aired, each adapting a specific novel. The latest installment, The Ink Black Heart, averaged 7.1 million viewers, making it one of the BBC's most-watched dramas. The BBC has confirmed a new series, The Running Grave, with Burke and Grainger reprising their roles.

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The Running Grave Synopsis

The upcoming series sees Strike and Ellacott hired by Sir Colin and Sally Edensor to locate their estranged son, Will, who has joined a religious cult called the Universal Humanitarian Church. Led by charismatic Jonathan Wace, the church uses a charitable facade and aggressive lawyers to silence critics. Robin goes undercover at the cult's Norfolk headquarters, Chapman Farm, while Strike gathers intel from former members. The case revolves around the mysterious death of the Drowned Prophet, Daiyu, leading the detectives into dangerous territory.

Critical Acclaim

Fans have praised the series for its intelligent storytelling and strong performances. One viewer described it as "outstanding," noting the "excellent cast, dynamic storyline, and unique cinematography." Another called it "brilliant," adding that it "got me hooked immediately." The series has been compared favorably to Slow Horses and The Capture.

All series of Strike are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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