Fans of hit crime dramas like Broadchurch and Line of Duty are flocking to BBC iPlayer to stream Hinterland, a Welsh-language police drama that has earned a reputation as a gripping, binge-worthy series. The show, which originally aired in Welsh in 2013 before an English-language version debuted in 2014, has drawn widespread acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling and unique bilingual format.
A Fresh Take on Crime Drama
Hinterland, known in Welsh as Y Gwyll, was the first BBC television drama to seamlessly blend English and Welsh dialogue. Set against the stark, rugged landscape of Ceredigion in mid-Wales, the series follows DCI Tom Mathias, a gifted detective with a troubled past who relocates from London to the Welsh countryside. He is partnered with DI Mared Rhys, and together they investigate dark, brutal murders that draw comparisons to the intensity of Line of Duty and the atmospheric tension of Broadchurch.
Landscape as a Character
The show’s setting plays a pivotal role, with the coastal scenery around Aberystwyth and Borth mirroring the dark and dangerous traits of its characters. One viewer on Rotten Tomatoes praised the series, writing: "Hinterland is dark, stormy and a little creepy. I love this show, partly because it is filmed in Borth and Aberystwyth where I used to holiday as a child... The use of the Welsh and English languages is mixed together well. Filmed primarily through the autumn and winter months to intensify the dark and gloominess of murder, mystery and death."
Critical and Fan Acclaim
Another fan echoed the sentiment, noting: "Fantastic show and the first season is amazing. Sets out the style of the show and introduces the characters brilliantly. The Welsh setting is beautiful, and it is filmed really well. Acting is first class, and the stories told are chilling and gripping." The cast includes Richard Harrington as DCI Tom Mathias, Mali Harries as DI Mared Rhys, and Alex Harries as DC Lloyd Elis. Their performances, combined with the distinctive setting, enabled the series to produce three complete seasons, concluding in December 2016.
Binge-Worthy Appeal
Fans have described the series as "totally binge-worthy," with one writing: "Loved this series. Loved the cast, the script, the cinematography, the acting, and the direction. Learning about a new culture was a bonus." All episodes of Hinterland are now available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer, allowing new audiences to discover the compelling crime drama that has captivated viewers since its debut.
