“Shetland Collection One” (2023)

TV Series

Ten Episodes

Created by: Ann Cleeves

Featuring: Douglas Henshall, Alison O’Donnell, Steven Robertson, Lewis Howden, Erin Armstrong, Mark Bonnar, Anne Kidd and Julie Graham

“Shetland” is a gripping crime drama that transports viewers to the ruggedly beautiful Shetland Islands, off the coast of Scotland. Adapted from Ann Cleeves’ bestselling novels, this television series offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, complex characters, and intricately woven mysteries that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

At the heart of “Shetland” is Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, portrayed with depth and nuance by Douglas Henshall. Perez is a native of the islands, providing him with a deep connection to the community he serves and a keen understanding of its inhabitants. Henshall’s portrayal of Perez is masterful, capturing the character’s quiet strength, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to justice.

One of the series’ greatest strengths is its sense of place. The Shetland Islands are not just a backdrop for the action; they are a character in their own right. The stark beauty of the landscape, with its windswept cliffs, dramatic seascapes, and rolling hills, is captured in stunning detail, providing a rich and evocative setting for the unfolding drama.

But it’s not just the scenery that makes “Shetland” so compelling; it’s the sense of community that permeates every episode. The tight-knit nature of island life is expertly depicted, with each character playing a role in the fabric of the community, from the local fishermen to the wealthy landowners. This sense of interconnectedness adds depth and complexity to the storylines, as secrets are unearthed and allegiances tested.

The mysteries themselves are intricately plotted, with each episode presenting a new case for Perez and his team to solve. From murder and kidnapping to drug trafficking and political corruption, the crimes in “Shetland” are as diverse as they are compelling. What sets the series apart, however, is its refusal to rely on formulaic storytelling. Just when you think you have it all figured out, a twist is thrown in that keeps you guessing until the very end.

The supporting cast of “Shetland” is equally impressive, with standout performances from Alison O’Donnell as Detective Sergeant Alison McIntosh, Steven Robertson as forensic expert Sandy Wilson, and Mark Bonnar as Perez’s close friend and occasional adversary, Duncan Hunter. Each actor brings depth and authenticity to their roles, helping to bring the world of “Shetland” to life in vivid detail.

In addition to its compelling characters and gripping mysteries, “Shetland” also explores deeper themes of identity, belonging, and the legacy of the past. As Perez delves into the dark underbelly of island life, he is forced to confront his own demons and grapple with the complexities of his own heritage. These deeper layers of storytelling add depth and richness to the series, elevating it beyond the typical crime drama fare.

“Shetland” continues to impress as it evolves over its seasons, maintaining its high standard of storytelling while deepening the character development and exploring new avenues of intrigue. As the series progresses, viewers are treated to not only a showcase of the stunning Shetland landscape but also a deeper understanding of its people and their histories.

One of the remarkable aspects of “Shetland” is its ability to balance episodic mysteries with overarching narrative threads that span multiple seasons. While each episode presents a self-contained case for Perez and his team to solve, there are underlying storylines that develop over time, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the series.

One such storyline is the personal journey of Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez himself. As a native of the islands, Perez is deeply connected to its history and its people, but he also carries his own emotional baggage and secrets. Throughout the series, we see Perez grapple with his past, confronting painful memories and long-held regrets. This adds a poignant depth to his character, as we witness his struggles and triumphs both professionally and personally.

The relationships between the characters are another highlight of the series. From Perez’s partnership with Detective Sergeant Alison McIntosh to his complex friendship with Duncan Hunter, each relationship is imbued with authenticity and nuance. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making the interactions between the characters feel genuine and compelling.

In addition to its primary cast, “Shetland” also features a rotating roster of guest stars who deliver standout performances in each episode. From seasoned veterans to up-and-coming talent, the guest stars bring a fresh energy to the series, adding depth and dimension to the storylines.

As “Shetland” progresses, it continues to push the boundaries of the crime drama genre, exploring new themes and delving into darker, more complex territory. From the impact of globalization on the local economy to the lingering effects of historical injustices, the series fearlessly tackles difficult subject matter with intelligence and sensitivity.

As “Shetland” continues to unfold, it navigates the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of island life with deft storytelling and remarkable attention to detail. Each season brings new challenges for DI Jimmy Perez and his team, as they confront not only the crimes that threaten their community but also the personal demons that haunt them.

The series maintains its signature blend of suspense and character-driven drama, weaving together multiple storylines to create a rich tapestry of intrigue. From the secrets buried in the past to the betrayals and alliances of the present, “Shetland” keeps viewers guessing with its twists and turns, while never losing sight of the emotional core that drives the narrative forward.

One of the most compelling aspects of “Shetland” is its exploration of the impact of crime on both individuals and the community as a whole. As Perez and his team investigate each case, they uncover not only the perpetrators of violence but also the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to crime in the first place. This nuanced approach adds depth and realism to the series, grounding it in the harsh realities of life in a remote and often isolated environment.

The series also excels in its portrayal of the Shetland Islands themselves, capturing the rugged beauty of the landscape and the unique character of its inhabitants. From the windswept cliffs and crashing waves to the cozy pubs and bustling harbors, the setting of “Shetland” is as much a character as any of its human counterparts. The sense of place is palpable, drawing viewers into the world of the islands and immersing them in its rich history and culture.

At its heart, “Shetland” is a series about resilience and redemption, as Perez and his team strive to bring justice to those who have been wronged and find closure for those left behind. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of community, even in the face of the most daunting challenges.

“Shetland” is a must-watch television series for fans of crime dramas and mystery thrillers. With its stunning scenery, complex characters, and gripping storylines, it is a masterclass in storytelling that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Whether you’re drawn in by the beauty of the Shetland Islands or the intrigue of its mysteries, “Shetland” is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Episodes

Series One

Red Bones: As DI Jimmy Perez investigates the murder of an elderly lady who is shot dead outside her croft, he finds evidence of a massive, bitter dispute between two families. With two murders and no strong leads, can Perez apprehend the suspect before crowds descend on the Shetland Islands for Up Helly Aa, the biggest fire festival in Europe?

Series Two

Raven Black: When the body of a teenage girl is found on a beach, DI Perez leads the investigation. It seems the case may be linked to the disappearance of a young girl 19 years earlier. DI Perez believes he and his team are finally closing in on the killer as they discover what 17-year-old Catherine Ross was hiding from everyone in the hours before her death.

Dead Water: A journalist is killed in a road accident and it emerges he was an old pal of Perez. As the investigation progresses it seems the victim’s return to Shetland was connected to plans for a controversial new gas pipeline. After a second body is found brutally murdered, DI Perez wonders if the two killings are connected to corporate greed and corruption on the island or to just one woman – Evie Watt.

Blue Lightning: When a scientist is murdered in a bird sanctuary on Fair Isle and Perez returns to his childhood home to investigate, a storm forces Perez and the suspects to remain enclosed under the same roof. Time is running out for Perez as prime suspect Peter Latimer lies critically ill in hospital. Was the fire a drunken accident, or was Latimer the second victim of a murderer still free on Fair Isle?

Series Three

Episode One: When a young man disappears on a ferry crossing and a small boy ends up in intensive care, DI Perez and his team become convinced the two events are connected.

Episode Two: DI Perez grows convinced that Maguire is implicated in the grisly death of a young man discovered in a shipping container.

Episode Three: Perez and Tosh’s investigation leads them to Glasgow, where they hope to uncover the truth behind Maguire’s death and his connection to Robbie Morton.

Episode Four: As the case gathers pace, Perez, Sandy and, most significantly, Tosh are all under threat.

Episode Five: Tosh’s reappearance takes the investigation into a new direction, raising more questions about events in Shetland and Glasgow.

Episode Six: Perez discovers that the person responsible for Robbie and Michael’s deaths is closer to home than he had thought.