Fans of British crime dramas such as Vera and Shetland have been urged to watch Wallander, a 'spellbinding' series now streaming free on Channel 4. Praised by viewers as 'one of the best crime shows in the world', the under-the-radar television gem has mesmerised audiences.
A Swedish classic adapted for BBC One
The British crime drama Wallander is an adaptation of a beloved Swedish book series penned by Swedish writer Henning Mankell. Drawing from Mankell's Kurt Wallander novels, the 'magnificent' and 'addictive' programme has left fans utterly hooked. Produced for BBC One, the series aired between 2008 and 2016 and spans four seasons.
It chronicles the life of fictional Swedish detective Kurt Wallander in the small Swedish town of Ystad, played brilliantly by actor Kenneth Branagh. Branagh is supported by Sarah Smart, Tom Hiddleston, Jeany Spark, Richard McCabe, David Warner, Sadie Shimmin and Polly Hemingway, forming an outstanding ensemble cast.
Awards and acclaim for the series
The 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."
Wallander has secured six BAFTA Television Awards, including Best Drama Series and the Best Actor accolade for Branagh, who additionally claimed an International Emmy Award for his exceptional performance. The gripping crime drama has also earned two Primetime Emmy Award nominations — Outstanding Directing for a Miniseries, Movie or a Dramatic Special (Philip Martin) and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie (Kenneth Branagh) — alongside a Golden Globe nomination for Branagh for Best Performance by an Actor in a Miniseries or a Motion Picture Made for Television.
Audience and critic reactions
With an impressive 90% audience approval rating across four series, the show has drawn widespread acclaim for its 'unique' approach to the detective genre. One critic said: "Bottom line: this is a great show that should be watched by everyone." Another heaped praise on Branagh's portrayal: "Branagh once again is magnificent in the role, making the flawed detective hugely appealing."
A third noted: "A murky, haunting realism infuses these addictive shows with their instantly recognizable tone." Viewers simply cannot get enough, with one writing: "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."
An IMDB user review 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 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." A further IMDB review 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."
