In a television landscape filled with crime dramas, Dept. Q stands out as an innovative and captivating proposition. Released in May 2025, the series is an adaptation of the renowned works by Danish author Jussi Adler-Olsen, bringing the narrative to the dark and charming city of Edinburgh. Directed by Scott Frank, known for The Queen’s Gambit, the production masterfully combines elements of suspense, drama, and investigation.
The story follows Detective Carl Morck
Portrayed by Matthew Goode, who, after a traumatic incident, is assigned to lead Department Q, a unit focused on cold cases. Alongside a diverse team, Morck dives into complex investigations, unraveling mysteries that challenge logic and morality.
With an engaging narrative, deep characters, and an atmosphere that emphasizes the series’ dark tone, Dept. Q stands out as one of the most impactful productions of the year.
The series begins with Carl Morck returning to work after a shooting that resulted in a colleague’s death and left his partner, James Hardy, paralyzed. As a way to keep him away from main operations, Morck is placed in charge of Department Q, headquartered in an old locker room at the police station.
The department’s first case involves the disappearance of prosecutor Merritt Lingard, who vanished four years earlier. With the help of his team, including former Syrian officer Akram Salim and detective Rose Dickson Morck reopens the case, facing internal and external obstacles.
As the investigation progresses, dark secrets come to light, revealing unexpected connections and placing the team in extremely dangerous situations. The search for Merritt becomes a race against time, testing the physical and emotional limits of everyone involved.
Cast and Iconic Characters
Known for his roles in Downton Abbey, The Crown, and The Imitation Game, Goode delivers an intense performance, masterfully portraying Morck’s trauma and internal conflicts.
Chloe Pirrie as Merritt Lingard
Pirrie plays the missing prosecutor, Merritt Lingard. With past roles in The Queen’s Gambit and The Crown, she brings complexity to Merritt—a strong and determined woman whose absence sparks the series’ main storyline.
Leah Byrne as Rose Dickson
Leah Byrne plays detective Rose Dickson, a dedicated officer determined to prove her worth. Previously featured in Deadwater Fell and Call the Midwife, Byrne showcases her versatility as an actress.
Alexej Manvelov as Akram Salim
Manvelov portrays Akram Salim, a former Syrian police officer who joins Department Q. With appearances in Chernobyl and Jack Ryan, he brings authenticity and emotion to the role, enriching the team’s dynamic.
Jamie Sives as James Hardy
Sives plays James Hardy, Morck’s partner who was left paralyzed after the initial incident. Known for Guilt and Annika, Sives delivers a moving performance exploring the physical and emotional consequences of trauma.
Kate Dickie as Moira Jacobson
Kate Dickie portrays Moira Jacobson, Morck’s superior who assigns him to Department Q. With roles in Game of Thrones and The Witch, Dickie adds a layer of complexity to the police hierarchy in the series.
Fascinating facts about the Series
The series is based on Jussi Adler-Olsen’s books, which were previously adapted into films in Denmark. The setting was moved from Copenhagen to Edinburgh, offering a new perspective and aesthetic to the story.
Chloe Pirrie drew inspiration from real Scottish cases to shape her character, seeking authenticity in her performance.
Engaging Narrative: Dept. Q delivers a story rich in suspense and twists, keeping viewers intrigued from start to finish.
Deep Characters: Each team member has a unique backstory, contributing to the series’ complexity and realism.
High-Quality Production: With direction by Scott Frank and a talented cast, the series features impeccable production—from script to cinematography.
Critics have compared the dynamic between Carl and Akram to the duo from Disco Elysium, a critically acclaimed RPG that also explores themes of trauma and police investigation. The script avoids clichés, focusing instead on the psychological development of the characters.
Filming took place in Edinburgh between February and June 2024, using iconic locations like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle to enhance authenticity.
Dept. Q is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers with emotional depth. If you haven’t watched it yet, don’t miss the chance to dive into this dark and captivating universe.
Dept. Q positions itself as one of the most impactful crime series of 2025, blending a dense narrative with compelling characters and top-tier production. For genre fans, it’s an unmissable experience. If you’re looking for a show that will challenge your mind and move your heart, Dept. Q is the right choice.
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