Netflix’s new crime drama, Dept. Q, which debuted on May 29, 2025, is a slow-burning, moody, and deeply psychological series that has quickly become one of the most talked-about shows of the year. Based on the bestselling Danish novels by Jussi Adler-Olsen, this adaptation reimagines the gritty cold-case investigations in a Scottish setting, bringing together a compelling cast and intelligent storytelling.
If you’re into layered characters, unsolved mysteries, and atmospheric visuals, Dept. Q is worth your time.
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The Premise: A Basement, Cold Cases, and a Haunted Detective
At the center of the series is Detective Chief Inspector Carl Morck, played with restraint and intensity by Matthew Goode. After a traumatic event leaves one colleague dead and another paralyzed, Morck is reassigned to lead a newly created unit—Department Q, which investigates cold cases from the basement of the Edinburgh police department.
What starts as a bureaucratic afterthought quickly turns into something far more significant as Morck and his small team uncover forgotten crimes and buried secrets.
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The Cast: Complex, Human, and Well-Cast
Matthew Goode delivers a brooding, emotionally complex performance as Carl Morck.
Kelly Macdonald (Dr. Rachel Irving) brings quiet gravitas as a department therapist.
Chloe Pirrie shines as prosecutor Merritt Lingard, determined to bring justice.
Alexej Manvelov as Akram Salim, a Syrian officer navigating trauma and identity.
Leah Byrne (Rose) adds a fresh dynamic as a young cadet.
Each actor brings authenticity to their role, making the dynamics between characters feel natural and deeply human.
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Direction and Writing: Smart, Subtle, and Suspenseful
Dept. Q excels in tone and pacing. Rather than leaning on sensationalist twists, it slowly builds tension. The cases are not only intellectually engaging but also emotionally rich. Each episode dives into one cold case while gradually developing the emotional arcs of the central characters.
The writing doesn’t insult your intelligence—it invites you to engage, question, and reflect.
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Cinematography and Production: Bleak but Beautiful
Filmed in Edinburgh and surrounding areas, the series uses gray palettes, foggy cityscapes, and stark interiors to mirror the emotional state of its characters. The atmosphere is heavy, but it never feels forced. Instead, it enhances the mood and narrative.
The camera work is deliberate, with tight close-ups during emotional scenes and wide shots to emphasize isolation and vulnerability.
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How It Compares to Other Crime Series
If you enjoyed:
Mindhunter
Broadchurch
Marcella
The Fall
You’ll likely find Dept. Q a worthwhile addition to your watchlist. It carries the same psychological weight and procedural grit while carving out its own identity.
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Critic and Audience Reception
Rotten Tomatoes: 75% (based on early reviews)
Audience Feedback: Mostly positive, with praise for performances and storytelling
Some critics note that the slow pace may not appeal to all viewers, especially those expecting high-octane action.
But for those who value character depth and narrative nuance, Dept. Q delivers.
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Final Verdict
4.5/5 stars
Dept. Q is a standout among 2025’s crime dramas. It’s intelligent, well-acted, and visually rich. While it may not be for viewers who want instant gratification, it rewards patience with depth and emotional payoff.
With strong source material and a solid first season, the groundwork has been laid for a promising future—Netflix would be smart to greenlight Season 2.
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Where to Watch
All 9 episodes of Dept. Q Season 1 are now streaming on Netflix.
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