The gripping crime drama series set in Northern Ireland, starring James Nesbitt as DCI Tom Brannick, has all episodes available to stream for free now on BBC iPlayer. Fans are calling it a worthy rival to Line of Duty.
Bloodlands: A Compelling Police Procedural
First broadcast in 2021, Bloodlands is a compelling police procedural television series devised by Chris Brandon. Filmed chiefly amid the scenic countryside of Strangford Lough in eastern Northern Ireland, the programme tracks DCI Tom Brannick as he investigates an intricate abduction case. The abductee is a former IRA operative, linking the enquiry to a two-decade-old unsolved case concerning a serial murderer identified by police as 'Goliath'. The perpetrator evaded capture and the investigation was ultimately closed, though it remains an acutely personal issue for Brannick, whose wife is thought to have been among Goliath's casualties.
Twists and Turns
What audiences won't anticipate is his ultimate revelation of the killer's true identity - and it strikes considerably nearer than anyone could have predicted. One critic on Rotten Tomatoes said: "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 viewer added: "Yes, it's grim and not always entirely logical but it is thrilling throughout and has a really good twist. I also really liked the acting as well as the connections to Irish history."
Creative Team Behind the Show
The show is overseen by the same executive producer responsible for Bodyguard and Line of Duty, through a joint venture between Hat Trick Productions and producer Jed Mercurio. Mercurio draws upon his past experience as a doctor and Royal Air Force officer, combining his professional knowledge with creative storytelling to deliver stunning concepts that have cemented his reputation as one of Britain's leading television writers.
Series Length and Reception
The first series is brief but captivating, featuring just four intense episodes - though this proved sufficient to warrant a second series commission in 2022. The sequel stretched to six episodes, but still left viewers hungry for additional content. One review says: "Great performances. Just enough twists and turns to keep you wanting more." Another claims: "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."
Where to Watch
Every episode of Bloodlands can now be streamed at no cost on BBC iPlayer.
