September marks the return of the fall season, an ideal time to indulge in the chilling world of British crime dramas. With cold weather, rain-soaked landscapes, and compelling mysteries, these shows offer the perfect autumnal escape. Streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, BritBox, and Acorn are brimming with captivating options, but which ones should you prioritize? Here are three standout series that represent the best of this genre, each with its own unique appeal.
Ridley (2022-present)
On the surface, *Ridley* might appear like a typical police procedural. You’ve got Alex Ridley (Adrian Dunbar), a seasoned detective reluctantly returning from retirement to solve a series of murders. His partner, Carol Farman (Bronagh Waugh), is a younger officer who’s not afraid to push boundaries in pursuit of justice. And, of course, there are those beautifully moody shots of the English countryside, enhanced by a jazzy soundtrack.
However, *Ridley* transcends the ordinary thanks to its focus on its lead characters, who are portrayed as complex, flawed individuals striving to do their best. Ridley carries the weight of grief over the loss of his wife and daughter in a suspicious fire, while Carol grapples with a teenage son and a wife who desires another child. This series skillfully intertwines the professional and personal lives of its detectives, creating an addictive crime drama that’s a feast for both the eyes and ears. After consuming its eight episodes, you’ll find yourself yearning for more. Don’t worry, season 2 is on its way! *Ridley* is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
And Then There Were None (2015)
The world didn’t necessarily need another adaptation of Agatha Christie’s *And Then There Were None*, but the 2015 three-episode miniseries from BBC One and Acorn TV is arguably the best adaptation to date. Yes, even better than the Oscar-winning 1974 film, *Murder on the Orient Express*.
You’re likely familiar with the story: a group of strangers find themselves trapped on a secluded island, where they are systematically eliminated one by one by a mysterious assailant seeking retribution for their past sins. They must unravel the killer’s identity before it’s too late.
While Christie’s 1939 novel isn’t particularly deep, previous adaptations have adhered strictly to the intricate plot mechanics that made it so popular. This adaptation does the same, but what elevates it to greatness is its nuanced portrayal of key characters like Vera Claythorne and Lawrence Wargrave, and its expansion on the overarching theme of human evil, defying easy categorization.
*And Then There Were None* is also surprisingly cinematic and elegiac for a television miniseries, thanks to John Pardue’s exceptional cinematography and Stuart Earl’s atmospheric score. The acting is stellar, with outstanding performances from Maeve Dermody as Vera and Sam Neill as John MacArthur, but it’s veteran actor Charles Dance who truly leaves a lasting impression. His portrayal of Wargrave embodies Christie’s nihilistic view that the worst of humanity often hides beneath a veneer of friendliness. *And Then There Were None* is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Obsession (2023)
Unlike most crime shows that center on actual crimes, *Obsession* delves into the darker territory of crimes of the heart, leading to an inevitable tragedy. William Farrow (Richard Armitage) appears to have it all: a loving wife, intelligent and compassionate children, and a successful career as a surgeon. However, he feels a void in his life that is filled when he meets Anna Barton (Charlie Murphy), a much younger woman who is equally drawn to him. They embark on a passionate affair, seeking solace and intimacy in a secluded apartment away from the world.
But there’s one major obstacle: Anna is engaged to William’s son, Jay. Despite this knowledge, their destructive passion continues. Over four episodes, *Obsession* unravels the depths of William’s obsession with Anna, revealing his inability to resist her allure despite his intelligence and love for his family.
A remake of the 1992 film *Damage*, this Netflix series is undeniably sexy, but imbued with a palpable sense of sadness. Love doesn’t always conquer all; in this case, it destroys everything. *Obsession* is streaming on Netflix.
