Borderliner

Borderliner, a Norwegian original series from Netflix that first premiered in 2017, weaves together an intricate narrative of crime, guilt, and complex familial relationships. Also known as "Grenseland" in Norwegian, the series grips its viewers with a dark yet spellbinding story set in the gloomy undertone of Norway's scenic landscapes.

The show's protagonist is Nikolai Andreassen, a reputable cop with an honest aim of upholding justice and law order. However, the trials of his work soon send him spiraling down a labyrinth of moral and ethical contortions as he finds himself embroiled in a case that threatens to fracture his family and professional life. Nikolai's character, portrayed brilliantly by Tobias Santelmann, is painted with a layer of relatability and empathy, enabling the viewer to journey with him as he navigates the murky waters of responsibility and conscience.

As the plot unfolds, Nikolai is temporarily transmitted from his usual office in Oslo to his hometown, a small, peaceful municipality. He's assigned to handle a seemingly straightforward suicide case that ends up being anything but. His complex familial relationships are unveiled when his brother, Lars, a local cop with clouded judgement, is indicated to be involved in the case. This conundrum sets the ball rolling for a tense and gripping drama that explores themes of corruption, deception, and moral dilemmas.

The cast’s sterling performances further intensify the depth of the series, adding to the authenticity of the complex narrative. Tobias Santelmann’s portrayal of Nikolai is replete with the right amount of vulnerability, grit, and determination. The rest of the cast, including Ellen Dorrit Petersen and Benjamin Helstad, offer complementary performances that make the character dynamics more engrossing.

Despite revolving around a crime narrative, Borderliner is much more than a mere detective series. It delves deep into the fabric of human relationships while grappling with themes of loyalty, love, moral quandary, and sacrifice. The dedication to exploring family dynamics and personal dilemmas makes it a soul-stirring drama that operates on multiple emotional levels. It is an impressive portrayal of how professional life can seep into personal life, creating a turmoil that can be too intense to handle.

Borderliner’s allure doesn’t stop at its exciting plot and character relationships; it also thrives on its scenic cinematography and atmospheric setting. The small-town vibe is beautifully captured in wide, sweeping shots of bleak landscapes that symbolize the characters’ isolation and despair. The town, with its tranquility and its charming, ever-present mist, becomes a character in its own right, setting up an eerie, threatening atmosphere that looms subtly throughout the series.

Moreover, the series is far from predictable. With numerous twists and turns to keep viewers on edge, its eight episodes are meticulously layered and patiently paced, unfolding with tragic inevitability. The narrative is skilfully engineered to keep the viewers guessing, adding to the suspense and the psychological drama that pervades Borderliner.

Behind the captivating screenplay stands a team of prolific directors, including Bård Fjulsrud, Rune Denstad Langlo, and Geir Henning Hopland. Their collective efforts subtly introduce Norwegian culture to international viewers while amplifying the narrative through striking imagery and effective storytelling. The series, in many ways, represents the growth of Norwegian television, highlighting its potential to sit alongside more recognized international industries.

With its blend of crime, suspense, family drama, and moral conundrums, Borderliner is a compelling watch that effectively uses the tense quiet of its rural setting to heighten its emotional intensity. For viewers, it is an exciting exploration into the shaded territories of guilt and responsibility, the quest for justice, and the price paid for love and loyalty.