Political Intrigue Meets Crime

Read Time:3 Minute, 37 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
The Killing: The Complete Series (DVD) [Forbrydelsen]
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Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Year Released: 2007 – 2012, 2024 Kino Lorber DVD
Runtime: 40 x 58m episodes
Creator(s): Søren Sveistrup
Director(s): Birger Larsen
Cast: Sofie Gråbøl, Søren Malling, Troels II Munk, Lars Mikkelsen, Bent Mejding
Language: Danish with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available May 28, 2024; pre-order here www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Delve into the shadowy corners of Denmark with THE KILLING, a riveting series that spans three seasons of intense criminal investigations. Central to the narrative is the indefatigable Inspector Sarah Lund, brought to life with a thrilling performance by Sofie Gråbøl. From the beginning, a chilling murder unravels, setting Lund on a path filled with twists, turns, and dead ends as she navigates through a web of lies and deceit.

THE KILLING embarks on a grim journey through the underbelly of Danish society right from its first season. It intertwines the personal anguish of a family in mourning with a politically charged environment brimming with conspiracy. Lund's unwavering determination, symbolized by her iconic sweater, threads through the series, anchoring the complex narrative that challenges the conventions of criminal justice with many suspects and intricate plots.

As the story progresses into its second season, the tension escalates with the murder of a lawyer, hinting at a vast conspiracy that permeates the upper tiers of political power. A seasoned yet resolute Lund peels back the layers of deceit clouding a society that’s struggling under the weight of terrorism and political upheaval. This season shows the meticulous detective work against the volatile backdrop of Copenhagen's political arena, exposing the ambitions and vulnerabilities of figures such as the determined politician Troels Hartman (Lars Mikkelsen.)

The narrative reaches its zenith in the third season when the personal stakes are constantly evolving—culminating with the kidnapping of a businessman’s daughter. This season captures the essence of the series by merging intense personal drama with overarching societal issues, leading to a finale that presents Lund’s ethical dilemmas in a morally complex world.

The series is celebrated throughout its duration for maintaining an engaging atmosphere, enhanced by its stark cinematographic portrayal of Scandinavia and solid directorial vision. The acting, particularly by Gråbøl, adds a profound depth and authenticity that elevates the series beyond conventional crime dramas. The storyline weaves personal struggles with political machinations, creating a resonant narrative that engages and challenges its audience.

While THE KILLING occasionally indulges in genre tropes, it cleverly uses these as vehicles for critique, offering a nuanced commentary on the societal repercussions of an unyielding quest for truth. This approach adds layers of realism and thematic depth, enriching the series' narrative.

THE KILLING is a meticulously crafted series that explores the ramifications of crime on individuals and society. Its psychological intrigue and suspense blend grip viewers, forcing them to reflect on profound justice and moral redemption themes. As a standout piece in international crime dramas, it offers a unique and insightful examination of the complexities of law enforcement and human morality, securing its place as a notable achievement in contemporary television.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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