6.3 / 10 (based on 81 reviews)
Genre: Crime
Main Cast: Hannes Jaenicke, Anne Cathrin Buhtz, Mirko Lang, Therese Hämer
Creators: Lorenz Lau-Uhle
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 17 episodes, 46-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Post Mortem (2006)
Post Mortem (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 31 reviews)
Florencia and Guillermo are two journalists of an important site. Both are designated to create a new section of police chronicles that try to understand the mind of a murderer. Throughout an entire year on the task, they will meet the tools that forensics use to unfold the secrets behind each crime while Florencia brings back an old buried memory about a sexual abuse she suffered in her childhood which will turn her into a potential murderer herself.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Julieta Zylberberg, Diego Velázquez, Esteban Pérez
Creators: Diego Palacio
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes
Post Mortem: Ingen dør på Skarnes (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 3678 reviews)
Live Hallangen is declared dead but hours later she suddenly wakes up with a sudden urge for blood. Meanwhile, her brother Odd tries to keep the family driven funeral home afloat.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Kathrine Thorborg Johansen, Elias Holmen Sørensen, André Sørum, Kim Fairchild
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes, 44.0-minute runtime
Higurashi: When They Cry – GOU (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 649 reviews)
Keiichi Maebara is in his new home in the peaceful Hinamizawa village, making friends with girls from school. He’s here for a big festival. But something about this town seems off, with that fear what dark secrets can this small town hide?
Genre: Animation, Drama, Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Sôichirô Hoshi, Yukari Tamura, Mai Nakahara, Khoi Dao
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes
In the world of TV dramas, particularly those of the crime-solving variety, there’s a formula that seems to work time and time again. Yet, every so often, a show comes along that, while sticking to the familiar procedural framework, manages to stand out due to its unique approach or setting. “Post Mortem” is one such show. Premiering in 2006, it carved a niche for itself among a sea of crime dramas. Let’s take a closer look at what makes “Post Mortem” worth watching, even years after its original airing.
The Premise
“Post Mortem” isn’t your run-of-the-mill crime drama. The series is set in the world of forensic pathology, focusing on Dr. Daniel Koch, who works in the forensic medicine institute in Cologne. Unlike shows that primarily follow detectives or police officers, “Post Mortem” shines a spotlight on the often-unsung heroes of crime-solving: the pathologists. These are the folks who, through their meticulous examination of the dead, help to uncover the truths that the living sometimes cannot tell.
Characters and Development
Dr. Daniel Koch
At the heart of the series is Dr. Daniel Koch, a character who is as complex as he is dedicated. What sets him apart from the typical TV detective or pathologist is his deep empathy for the victims. His dedication to uncovering the truth is not just professional; it’s personal. This emotional investment in his work adds a layer of depth to the character and the show overall.
Supporting Cast
Dr. Koch’s colleagues, including the no-nonsense Judith Sommer and the ambitious Joe Hoffer, add richness to the narrative. Their interactions, both in and out of the lab, provide insights into their characters and offer a break from the grim realities of their work. The dynamics within this team highlight the importance of collaboration and differing perspectives in solving cases.
Standout Episodes
While “Post Mortem” maintained a consistently high quality across its episodes, a few stand out for their storytelling, character development, or the ethical questions they raise.
The Pilot Episode: As with any show, the pilot sets the tone, and “Post Mortem” hits the ground running. It introduces us to Dr. Koch and his world, laying the groundwork for the series’ focus on forensic pathology as a means to solve crimes.
“The Silent Witness”: This episode delves into the emotional toll that the job can take on pathologists. It’s a poignant reminder that behind every case is a human story.
“Crossing the Line”: Here, the team faces moral and ethical dilemmas, showcasing the series’ willingness to tackle complex issues head-on.
Why It Stands Out
In a genre crowded with similar shows, “Post Mortem” distinguishes itself for several reasons:
Focus on Forensic Pathology: By centering the narrative around pathologists rather than detectives, the show offers a fresh perspective on crime-solving.
Character Depth: The characters in “Post Mortem” are well-developed, with personal backstories and motivations that make them relatable and human.
Ethical Questions: The series doesn’t shy away from exploring the moral complexities of crime-solving, adding a thought-provoking dimension to the entertainment.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Though “Post Mortem” might not have the name recognition of some of its contemporaries, its impact, particularly in how it portrays the field of forensic pathology, is noteworthy. It has contributed to a greater public appreciation for the behind-the-scenes aspects of crime-solving. The show has also inspired a deeper interest in forensic science among viewers, with some even pursuing careers in the field as a result.
Conclusion
“Post Mortem” is a gem of a TV show that deserves recognition not just for its entertainment value but for how it broadens the scope of the crime drama genre. It offers a unique blend of suspense, science, and human drama, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in the intricacies of crime-solving. Beyond its engaging plots and character arcs, the show poses significant questions about morality, ethics, and the human condition, making it a thought-provoking series that stays with you long after you’ve finished watching.