Fans of gripping crime dramas set in dramatic landscapes with a dynamic lead character are in for a treat, as the Finnish series Sorjonen (also known as Bordertown) is now streaming free on Channel 4. The show has been described as 'simply outstanding' and 'utterly gripping' by viewers.
What is Sorjonen (Bordertown)?
Sorjonen is a Nordic noir crime drama set in the Finnish town of Lappeenranta, roughly 30 kilometres from the Russian border. Created by Miikko Oikkonen, it stars Ville Virtanen as Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen, one of the most respected officers at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Finland. DI Sorjonen displays traits of savantism and is a high-functioning autistic man. The series follows him as he moves his family to Lappeenranta, solving complex cases while juggling family life.
The show has three seasons with a total of 31 episodes and has garnered glowing praise both in Finland and internationally. Ville Virtanen is joined by Matleena Kuusniemi, Anu Sinisalo, Lenita Susi, Kristiina Halttu, Olivia Ainali, and Ilkka Villi alongside a larger ensemble cast.
Critical and Audience Praise
The crime drama has received praise from critics, with one writing: “That European register... gives a twist to the most traditional [police series], supported by the beautiful Nordic landscapes.” Another reviewer said: “Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen follows in a long tradition of savant detectives; he’s eccentric, brilliant, obsessive, better with evidence than navigating social situations. But as created by Miikko Oikkonen, he’s also complex and nuanced.”
Audiences are equally enthusiastic. One IMDB user posted: “Finnish crime noir tour-de-force! Bordertown is an endearingly intelligent, moorishly entertaining Finnish crime-noir drama series of the highest ilk.” Another fan wrote: “Simply outstanding. All crime series are second to this. It's utterly gripping, fantastic acting, great storylines and the horrifying details will keep you glued to the TV in anticipation for the next scene or episode.”
A Rotten Tomatoes review added: “This show is big, it's bold, packed with drama, tension, and action in all of the right places. All of this is perfectly complimented with beautiful imagery set in the Finnish town of Lappeenranta paired with a brilliant soundtrack. It takes crime busting TV to an entirely different level.”
Spin-off and Streaming
The series was so successful that a film spin-off, Bordertown: The Mural Murders, was commissioned. It premiered in autumn 2021 and starred characters from the original series. The film is currently available to stream on Netflix.
Sorjonen (Bordertown) is available to stream for free on Channel 4.
