TV viewers are binge-watching a beloved Welsh thriller that has been hailed as 'the best Welsh series ever' by fans. The BBC police drama, set in the 'beautiful but bleak' town of Aberystwyth, has left audiences spellbound and wanting more.
What Is Hinterland?
Hinterland, known as Y Gwyll in Welsh, is a noir police procedural created by Ed Talfan and Ed Thomas. It first aired on S4C in 2013 before the English-language version debuted on BBC One in 2014. It was the first BBC drama to feature dialogue in both English and Welsh.
The series follows DCI Tom Mathias, a brilliant but troubled detective who flees his past in London to work in Aberystwyth. Alongside DI Mared Rhys, he solves dark murder mysteries while grappling with his own traumatic history.
Cast and Production
Richard Harrington stars as DCI Tom Mathias, with Mali Harries as DI Mared Rhys. The cast also includes Alex Harries, Hannah Daniel, Aneirin Hughes, Anamaria Marinca, Geraint Morgan, Sian Reese-Williams, and Siôn Alun Davies. Filmed over 124 days in 2013, the show was shot in both Welsh and English, with each scene performed twice.
Critical and Fan Acclaim
The series holds an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The Guardian called it 'spectacular', while The Arts Desk noted the 'deliciously dark' atmosphere. Fans on IMDb have praised it as 'spellbinding' and 'a total masterpiece'. One viewer said: 'The best Welsh series ever. Riveting and a total masterpiece.' Another added: 'The dark jewel in the BBC's crown.'
Where to Watch
All three seasons, comprising 26 episodes, are available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
