Rediscovering ‘Criminal’: Netflix’s Suspenseful Gem
Netflix often produces series and films that make a splash upon release but fade into obscurity as time goes on. “Criminal,” which premiered in 2019, was one such title. It was a standout on Netflix during its release year, but chances are you’ve forgotten about it. That’s why we’ve pulled it out of the streaming platform’s catalog to recommend it to you once again.
The series revolves around the tragic death of a young girl, who was found drowned in her bathtub. The peculiar circumstances surrounding her death prompted a criminal investigation. The show focuses on the interrogations conducted by detectives with the primary suspects. Through their questions, they attempt to uncover the hidden truth.
“Criminal” is a unique experiment undertaken by Netflix. The series comprises four parts, each shot and centered in a different country: the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Spain. If you get hooked on one of these segments, you have three more waiting for you, all with the same theme, tone, and style. It’s a suspenseful mini-franchise with excellent reviews.
Within each of these parts, there are further divisions because each episode is self-contained. This results in a total of 12 interrogations, each lasting about 45 minutes, making it a treat for suspense enthusiasts.
Given that the series relies heavily on dialogue, the stellar performances of its actors are crucial, and luckily, “Criminal” features some of the brightest talents in the industry. Inma Cuesta shines particularly bright, delivering a chilling performance that will leave viewers captivated. The cast also includes Emma Suárez, Carmen Machi, Eduard Fernández, and Álvaro Cervantes, all of whom adeptly carry the weight of the intense interrogations.
Maintaining composure during intense interrogations filled with psychological mind games and palpable tension isn’t an easy task. For many, the first episode of the Spanish version delivers a visceral punch and is considered the best. However, despite our love for Spanish productions, some argue that the UK version of “Criminal” stands out the most, thanks in part to the presence of David Tennant and Hayley Atwell.
If you’re a fan of suspenseful storytelling and exceptional performances, “Criminal” is a series that deserves a second look. With its international flair and top-notch acting, it’s an intriguing journey into the minds of both interrogators and suspects and a testament to the power of dialogue in storytelling.