A gripping detective drama that fans have called a masterpiece is now available to stream for free. Viewers are binge-watching Cardinal, a Canadian crime series set in the bleak fictional city of Algonquin Bay.
What Is Cardinal About?
Cardinal first aired in 2017 and adapts the novels of crime writer Giles Blunt. The show follows police detective John Cardinal, played by Billy Campbell, and his partner Lise Delorme, portrayed by Karine Vanasse, as they investigate criminal cases. The first season, consisting of six episodes, adapts the novel Forty Words of Sorrow, focusing on the murder of a young girl. The story begins with the discovery of Katie Pine, a missing 13-year-old whose body is found in a disused mine shaft.
Critical and Fan Praise
The series holds an impressive 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One IMDb user described it as gripping from beginning to end, calling it the darkest show on TV that should not be missed. Another viewer praised the snow-covered Canadian backdrop, stating it has an originality of its own and is a brilliant edge-of-your-seat detective drama. A third fan declared it the best police drama ever, unmissable and life-giving. Others have compared it to Fargo and Shetland, noting its dark, grim, and criminally underrated nature.
Cast and Seasons
Alongside Campbell and Vanasse, the cast includes Kristen Thomson, Deborah Hay, Alanna Bale, Glen Gould, James Downing, Zach Smadu, Eric Hicks, David Richmond-Peck, and James Thomas. The show ran for four series, each with six episodes, concluding in 2020. The later seasons adapted Blunt's novels Blackfly Season, By the Time You Read This, Crime Machine, and Until the Night.
Where to Watch
All 24 episodes are available to stream for free on U, making it ideal for evening entertainment. The official synopsis notes that Cardinal struggles to right past wrongs that could derail his investigation and end his career, as the case grows more violent and twisted.
