What happens when an asshole is traumatised? What if he’s smart, and working to save someone; how do you root for him? Dept. Q is out now on Netflix.
Dept. Q is developed by Scott Frank, known for writing and directing The Queen’s Gambit and for screenplays such as Logan, Out of Sight, and Minority Report. He co-created the series with Chandni Lakhani, who previously wrote for The Dublin Murders and Your Honor. The show stars Matthew Goode, recognized for roles in The Crown, A Discovery of Witches, and The Imitation Game. He is joined by Chloe Pirrie, who appeared in The Queen’s Gambit and The Victim, and Alexej Manvelov, known for Chernobyl and Before We Die.
It’s hard to review this series without giving to much away. It’s about a cop, Detective Chief Inspector Carl Morck. He’s a smart cop, and he’s also an asshole. He is battling PTSD and depression, but he was an asshole before those struggles, so it’s not as if his colleagues suddenly see him in a new light. But he’s smart, and he’s a good detective, and he can’t help but need to figure out this case.
Full Acting
Goode shines in this role. His body language is exquisite. Exuding annoyance and patience worn thin. It’s a masterclass. He’s gone beyond the dialogue and facial expressions and pushed his posture into his character. It’s really a delight.
Alexej Manvelov plays Akram, Morck’s assistant and partner on the case, and he is the perfect foil. Quiet, patient, and softly pushing too far as they work, Akram is the one you root for. Manvelov is excellent, the way he breathes in a scene, pauses, and shows things down for a beat. It might take an episode or two, but he’ll be your favourite.
Dept. Q is streaming on Netflix, and if you like David Fincher flicks like Zodiac, and are a bit tired of the near-horror cop shows that Criminal Minds and CSI morphed into, it’s worth it.
