Fans have crowned the British crime drama Wallander 'one of the best crime shows in the world,' and it's available to stream free on Channel 4. The 'magnificent' and 'addictive' series, adapted from Henning Mankell's beloved Swedish book series, has viewers utterly hooked.
A Hidden Gem for Crime Drama Lovers
Produced for BBC One and broadcast between 2008 and 2016, the show spans four seasons. It charts the life of fictional Swedish detective Kurt Wallander in the modest Swedish town of Ystad, portrayed brilliantly by actor Kenneth Branagh. Branagh is joined by Sarah Smart, Tom Hiddleston, Jeany Spark, Richard McCabe, David Warner, Sadie Shimmin, and Polly Hemingway, forming an exceptional ensemble cast.
The series' official synopsis reads: "Swedish detective Kurt Wallander investigates a series of murders in the south of the country. Unable to unsee the dark crimes he's tasked to investigate, Wallander's job comes at a cost to his family and relationships."
Award-Winning Drama with Critical Acclaim
Wallander has scooped six BAFTA Television Awards since its release in 2008, including Best Drama Series and Best Actor for Branagh, who also claimed an International Emmy Award for his outstanding portrayal. The crime drama has also received nominations for two Primetime Emmy Awards, as well as a Golden Globe nod for Branagh.
With an impressive 90% audience approval score average across four seasons, the 'unique' detective drama has garnered widespread acclaim. One critic said: "Bottom line: this is a great show that should be watched by everyone." Another lauded Branagh's performance: "Branagh once again is magnificent in the role, making the flawed detective hugely appealing." A third critic said: "A murky, haunting realism infuses these addictive shows with their instantly recognizable tone."
Fans Rave About the Series
Viewers simply cannot get enough of the series. One wrote: "Wallander is an incredible show in all aspects. The cinematography, directing, and acting are all superior, combining to create a dark and brooding atmosphere that constantly sucks the audience in."
A user review posted to IMDB says: "Kenneth Branagh's performance in this series is top notch. With a long line of awards and other nominations for best actor, it's quite obvious he makes this series the time worth watching. If you are looking for a great and intense crime series, you should microwave the popcorn and check this one out."
One thoroughly impressed fan writes: "What Wallander has that is so riveting is the most unique crimes I've ever seen in any police show. A cast that seems like real people. And the cinematography is gorgeous. Beautiful, endless fields and flowers, beaches and water fronts. Homes that look lived in. People dressed for comfort, not fashion. I've watched this series many times, and I just love more each time."
Another audience review on IMDB reads: "One of the BEST crime shows in the world!!! I stumbled upon this by chance, when it was airing on the BBC. I am now completely addicted. I can't praise this show enough, the writing is fantastic, the acting is stellar and the production is among the best in the world. It's a godsend for lovers of drama and crime, and just top quality shows! Watch it and you will not be disappointed."
Wallander is currently available to stream at no cost on Channel 4 and U.
