Watch Marnow Murders

Marnow Murders is a Scandinavian crime drama, produced by TV4 in Sweden, that follows the investigations of a team of detectives, led by Detective Inspector Thomas Andreasson, into a series of violent murders that occur on the idyllic island of Sandhamn. The show takes its name from the fictional island community of Marnow, which serves as the focal point of the series. The opening shot of the show features a beautiful, windswept landscape, with a lighthouse overlooking the sea. We soon learn that this idyllic environment is not as peaceful as it appears, as the body of a young woman is discovered near the lighthouse, marking the start of a string of gruesome murders.

The series is based on the popular novels by Viveca Sten, and follows her lead character, Detective Inspector Thomas Andreasson, whose quiet life is upended by the sudden influx of violent crime on Marnow. The show also features a cast of supporting characters, including Thomas' wife, Nora, who is a doctor on the island, and his colleague, Detective Mia Holmgren.

One of the striking things about Marnow Murders is the way that it blends beauty and horror. The island environment is stunning, with gorgeous sunsets, pristine beaches and charming architecture. But this beauty is juxtaposed with the brutal crimes that take place there. The show's director, Mattias Ohlsson, does an excellent job of creating a sense of unease, even in the most picturesque of scenes. For example, a peaceful family picnic on the beach is undercut by the discovery of a corpse washed up on the shore.

The murders themselves are both gruesome and mysterious, with each episode focusing on a new case. The show is not afraid to delve into the darker aspects of human nature, with themes of jealousy, greed, and revenge often featuring heavily in the plotlines. The murders are often portrayed in a graphic and unsettling way, which adds to the show's sense of tension and unease.

At the heart of the series is Detective Inspector Andreasson, played by Swedish actor Jakob Cedergren. Andreasson is a classic detective figure; quiet, brooding, and fiercely intelligent. Cedergren gives an excellent performance, capturing both the character's intelligence and his world-weariness. Some of the most powerful scenes in the series involve Andreasson reflecting on the horrors that he has witnessed, and the toll that they have taken on him.

The supporting cast is also excellent, with Alexandra Rapaport giving a standout performance as Nora, Thomas' wife. Nora is a strong-willed and intelligent character, who often provides a counterpoint to Thomas' stoicism. The chemistry between Rapaport and Cedergren is one of the show's highlights, and their relationship provides a welcome reprieve from the darkness of the crimes.

Marnow Murders also features some impressive cinematography, with Ohlsson making excellent use of the island's natural beauty. The camera often lingers on shots of the sea and the sky, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements the show's sense of foreboding. The use of light is also impressive, with the dimly-lit interiors of the island's houses and bars providing an eerie atmosphere.

Overall, Marnow Murders is an excellent crime drama that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre. The combination of stunning scenery, gripping mysteries, and strong performances makes for a compelling show that is difficult to put down. With each episode bringing a new case to solve, viewers will find themselves drawn into the world of Marnow, eagerly awaiting the next twist in the story.

Marnow Murders is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (8 episodes). The series first aired on March 6, 2021.