7.7 / 10 (based on 47962 reviews)
A young woman is found brutally murdered in a playground and one of her hands is missing. Above her hangs a small man made of chestnuts.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: David Dencik, Danica Curcic, Mikkel Boe Følsgaard, Iben Dorner
Creators: Dorte Warnøe Høgh, David Sandreuter, Mikkel Serup
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes, 50-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Kastanjemanden (2021)
The Valhalla Murders (2019)
7.1 / 10 (based on 14996 reviews)
Police profiler Arnar is sent back home from Oslo to his native Iceland to investigate the country’s first serial killer case. He teams up with the local senior cop Kata.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Aldís Amah Hamilton, Nína Dögg Filippusdóttir, Björn Thors, Arndís Hrönn Egilsdóttir
Creators: Thordur Palsson
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes, 50.0-minute runtime
Equinox (2020)
6.1 / 10 (based on 7339 reviews)
Astrid was traumatized by the mysterious disappearance of a school class in 1999. Twenty years later, when she finds out that the only survivor from 1999 mysteriously died, Astrid sets off to discover what really happened.
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Danica Curcic, Lars Brygmann, Karoline Hamm, Hanne Hedelund
Creators: Tea Lindeburg
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes, 43.0-minute runtime
Ófærð (2015)
8 / 10 (based on 23104 reviews)
In a remote town in Iceland, Police desperately try to solve a crime as a powerful storm descends upon the town.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, Ilmur Kristjánsdóttir, Björn Hlynur Haraldsson, Guðjón Pedersen
Creators: Baltasar Kormákur
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 28 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The Sinner (2017)
7.9 / 10 (based on 129198 reviews)
Anthology series that examines how and why ordinary people commit brutal crimes.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Bill Pullman, Jessica Hecht, Dohn Norwood, Adam LeFevre
Creators: Derek Simonds
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 32 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
In the sprawling universe of crime dramas, a new contender emerged from Denmark in 2021: “Kastanjemanden,” or “The Chestnut Man” in English. This series, based on the novel by Søren Sveistrup, quickly garnered attention for its gripping narrative and intricate plot. Let’s explore what makes “The Chestnut Man” a standout in the crowded field of crime dramas.
Unpacking the Plot
At its core, “The Chestnut Man” is a thriller that follows two detectives, Naia Thulin (played by Danica Curcic) and Mark Hess (played by Mikkel Boe Følsgaard), as they investigate a series of gruesome murders in Copenhagen. The killer leaves behind small figurines made of chestnuts and matchsticks at the crime scenes, which becomes a signature mark linking the murders. The series weaves through various layers of mystery, revealing deep-seated corruption and secrets within the Danish society.
Setting the Scene
Denmark, with its picturesque landscapes and urban complexities, provides a perfect backdrop for this chilling narrative. The contrast between the serene Danish countryside and the dark, twisted crimes adds to the overall tension and atmosphere of the series. The cinematography captures this duality beautifully, making the setting almost a character in its own right.
Characters and Development
Naia Thulin
Thulin is not your typical detective. Ambitious and driven, she yearns for a position in the cybercrime unit, viewing the homicide department as a stepping stone. Her character arc is fascinating as she evolves from being somewhat disinterested in the case to becoming deeply invested in solving the mystery. Her personal life, particularly her relationship with her daughter, adds layers to her character, making her relatable and human.
Mark Hess
Hess, on the other hand, is a bit of a mystery himself. Sent back from Europol under a cloud, his past and his reasons for being demoted are slowly revealed. His initial reluctance to engage with the case and his partnership with Thulin evolve as they delve deeper into the investigation. The dynamic between Hess and Thulin, fraught with tension and mutual respect, drives much of the narrative.
The Chestnut Man
The titular chestnut man figurines are a chilling detail that sets this series apart. These innocent childhood crafts turned sinister calling cards of a serial killer are not just a gimmick; they are central to the unraveling of the plot. The symbolism and the backstory of the chestnut men are meticulously developed, adding a psychological depth to the story.
Themes and Social Commentary
“The Chestnut Man” does more than entertain; it delves into themes of loss, revenge, and the impact of past actions on the present. It also offers commentary on social issues such as child welfare, political corruption, and the challenges within the police force. These themes are woven into the narrative seamlessly, making the series thought-provoking and relevant.
Why It Stands Out
In a genre that is often criticized for being formulaic, “The Chestnut Man” brings freshness and depth. Here are a few reasons why it stands out:
Complex Characters: The characters in “The Chestnut Man” are well-developed, with motivations and backstories that are gradually revealed. They are flawed, relatable, and compelling.
Atmospheric Setting: The use of the Danish landscape, with its inherent contrasts, adds an atmospheric quality that enhances the mood and tension of the series.
Intricate Plot: The plot is complex without being convoluted. It strikes a balance between being challenging enough to keep viewers guessing and straightforward enough to follow.
Social Commentary: The series doesn’t shy away from addressing societal issues, making it not just a crime drama but a commentary on contemporary Danish society.
Unique Signature: The chestnut man figurines provide a unique and memorable signature for the series, tying the narrative together in a symbolic and impactful way.
Conclusion
“The Chestnut Man” is a masterclass in crime drama, blending suspense, character depth, and social commentary into a compelling narrative. It’s a series that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on broader societal issues. For fans of the genre looking for something that breaks the mold, “The Chestnut Man” is a must-watch. Its unique blend of elements ensures it stands out in a crowded field, making it a memorable addition to the world of crime dramas.