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General Summary (No Spoilers)
I'm a sucker for a good British detective drama, and no one does them like BBC. But, The Killing, an American television series based on the Danish original Forbrydelsen gives the BBC a run for their money. Premiering on AMC in 2011 and running for four seasons, the series is set against the backdrop of Seattle, WA. The show's aesthetics enhance its somber narrative, aided by the muted color palette and the ever-present rain of Seattle. And yes, everyone is a jogger in this movie. Even in the rain. This made me feel bad about my own exercise routine and almost lost the series a star as a result.
First Season (Spoilers)
The first season revolves around the murder of Rosie Larsen, a teenage girl. Detectives Sarah Linden (Mireille Enos) and Stephen Holder (Joel Kinnaman) lead the investigation, which becomes increasingly complex as they uncover layers of deception and personal tragedy. (This was my first introduction to Kinnaman. And I was shooketh.) The show doesn’t just focus on solving the case; it also highlights how crime impacts victims, families, and the community, making each episode both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Beyond just fully developed lead characters, the series brings supporting characters to life, illustrating the devastating emotional toll that crime takes on families, bringing a real sense of urgency and humanity to the story. The Killing stands out for this exploration of the emotional aftermath of crime by delving deeply into not only the detectives' lives but also those of the victims' families and the broader community. It gives the grief, anger and confusion weight, creating a profound commentary on violence and its consequences.
(More spoilers!)
The Killing didn't fare well with the critics and viewership has varied over the years, but it has achieved an almost cult like status because of the show's compelling narrative, lush characters arcs and intimate (sometimes hidden) details that fans continue to find through rewatching the series over and over. A reported 80% of viewers who watched the first season went on to complete the series, a testament to its gripping storytelling.
Cinematographer Peter Sova's artistic work creates a visual tension that mirrors the series' uncertainty. For instance, many crucial details are captured in seemingly mundane moments, later holding significant relevance to the plot. This meticulous attention to detail keeps you engaged and invested in uncovering the truth alongside the characters, causing you to spend even more time on the couch, sedentary, and out of the rain. Love it!
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