Criminal: UK

Criminal: UK is an intense and innovative police procedural drama, produced and screened by Netflix from 2019 to 2020. Known for its unique format and captivating storytelling, this series stands out from the usual clutter of crime dramas with its minimalist approach and ambitious narrative structure.

The series is set almost entirely within the confines of a police interview suite, a claustrophobic, sparse, yet technologically advanced environment filled with high-tech screens and concealed cameras. It's within this high-stakes setting that each episode narrative plays out - a crime is discussed, a suspect is grilled - but exterior scenes are rare, driving home the power of dialogue, characterisation and plot structure in generating suspense.

The narrative of Criminal: UK is an exercise in minimalism, where words are weapons and silences are loaded with tension. Across two seasons, each episode primarily focuses on a single criminal case and suspect, featuring an ensemble cast of investigators applying their formidable skills to extract the truth. Using mainly only the dialogue between the investigators and the suspect as the narrative tool, the creators manage to immerse the viewers into the tension-filled, painstaking process of criminal interrogation.

One of the distinguishing features of Criminal: UK is its diverse collection of characters, each featuring their unique backstory and contribution to the crime-solving process. The show boasts a stellar cast, with each episode featuring new guest stars in the role of the suspect. It includes the likes of David Tennant and Hayley Atwell, bringing their brilliance to the high-stakes game of the interview room, alongside a core cast of investigators led by the indomitable Katherine Kelly.

Running concurrently with the percussion of the interrogation is the subtle exploration of the detectives’ personal lives and their interaction dynamics. From unseen bosses and demanding higher-ups to intricate office politics, and complicated personal relationships, the creators have skilfully intertwined the personal narratives of the investigators with the overarching crime drama. This adds another layer to the characters, making them relatable and human, and provides viewers with an entry point into the otherwise closed world of the interview room.

The show with its stripped-down narrative structure also allows for a focus on the psychology of crime and punishment. It allows the viewers to witness different techniques of interviewing, manipulating, and breaking down suspects. It offers an insight into the intricacies of the human mind - the ways people react under pressure or to different stimuli. This exploration of the human psyche, guilt, innocence, and the law, sets it apart from the conventional 'whodunnit' dramas.

Criminal: UK also offers commentary on topical and socially relevant issues such as racial profiling, social inequality, and mental health stigma. With its intelligent take on contemporary issues, it prompts viewers to think and reflect on the moral and social aspects of crime and justice.

Structurally, the show adheres to a tight, three-act structure, each act raising the stakes and drawing the viewers deeper into the unfolding drama. This, coupled with the expert performances and pacey direction, gives each episode a theatrical quality, making Criminal: UK not just a TV show but a gripping, nerve-racking, psychological stage play.

Criminal: UK, with its minimalistic approach and gut-wrenching suspense, brings a refreshing and innovative take to the genre of crime dramas. It strips down the action-filled, plot-heavy convention of crime dramas to its most raw and fundamental element - the face-off between law and crime, guilt and innocence, truth and lies. The series is a testament to the power of dialogue and performance in storytelling.

In conclusion, Criminal: UK provides a meticulously crafted, professionally executed, and profoundly engaging police procedural experience, underscore that perhaps less can indeed be more. Whether you're a fan of the genre, or someone who just appreciates innovative storytelling, the series offers a deep, intense and unique narrative structure that cuts across the clutter and has positioned itself as a must-watch in the world of crime dramas.