Crime drama fans searching for their next binge-watch are being urged to check out Cold Courage, a book-to-screen adaptation that has won over viewers online despite mixed reviews. All eight episodes are available to stream for free on Channel 4.
The international series is based on the Finnish book series by Pekka Hiltunen, also known in English as Sincerely Yours. It was the first instalment of the Studio book series, brought to life in this 2020 production.
Plot and Setting
The majority of the series unfolds in London, with additional scenes filmed in Finland. It centres on two Finnish women residing in the capital. Pihla Viitala stars as Mari, who heads a covert group called The Studio, while Sofia Pekkari portrays Lia, who is enlisted by Mari to infiltrate a right-wing political party.
The gripping drama follows the operations of a secretive investigative unit established by Mari. Lia is recruited to keep tabs on the campaign of a right-wing party leader. She harbours deep concerns for her friend, a sex worker trapped under the control of an abusive crime lord. When a body is uncovered, she becomes convinced it belongs to her friend.
Viewer Praise
Driven by fury and a desire for justice, Lia joins forces with the group to track down the criminal responsible for her friend's death and protect other women from suffering the same fate. One fan described the series as "thrilling", writing on IMDb: "Ignore the bad reviews. This is a great TV series, and I really wish it gets the praise it rightfully deserves. Should at least be an 8 on here. The storyline was excellent with plenty of surprises, and the ending was great. Can't wait for the new season!"
Another viewer shared: "I was hoping the series was going to be as good as the book, and it was! Production and the script were on point. Thanks for making this."
Cast and Availability
The principal cast have garnered considerable praise from audiences, with one commenting: "Excellent TV series. Plenty to talk about here with each episode. Sofia Pekkari and Pihla Viitala really stole the show and made it what it was here. 10 stars." The programme also features Toni O'Rourke as Nina, John Simm as crime lord Arthur, and Peter Coonan as Paddy, the studio's lead investigator.
It presents the perfect binge-watch opportunity, with just eight episodes to work through, though no second series has yet been announced. This has left at least one viewer thoroughly disappointed and clamouring for more. They wrote: "Please tell me there's a 2nd series coming this year... I really binged all 8 episodes like a madwoman and couldn't get enough. Addictive show, hoping for good news soon for the next season."
All eight episodes of Cold Courage are currently available to stream for free on Channel 4 and can be rented via both YouTube and Apple TV in the UK.
