Hidden: First Born

Hidden: First Born is an engrossing fantasy crime thriller from Scandinavia, produced by Viaplay and first aired in 2019. This gripping series originated from Sweden, where it quickly captivated audiences before making its way to international viewership. The innovative story and intense narrative make Hidden: First Born a stand-out television series that's exciting from minute one.

The show's titular 'Hidden' refers not just to the concealed world of supernatural beings but also to the hidden events and secrets that underpin the story. 'First Born' refers to the protagonist Blanka, a woman who, after a traumatic incident, discovers she's a part of an invisible world filled with mysterious and terrifying supernatural creatures known as the Hidden. She is the 'First Born', a figure that has immense power and is prophesied to bring about a massive shift in their world.

Blanka, played by the talented Izabella Scorupco, is a strong and multifaceted character. She starts off as a regular woman living in Stockholm working for a challenging high-profile law firm. However, her transformation into an important figure in the supernatural realm is a mesmerizing journey. Blanka must come to grips with her newfound reality, find her place in a swirling milieu and navigate an escalating conflict within the Hidden. Along with her on this journey is Detective Jonas, an investigator whose fascination with the Hidden world make him her reluctant ally.

Creator Jonathan Sjöberg has painted the Hidden as a society in which the inhabitants live in the world of humans without being detected, creating a dual-sided narrative that adds to the suspense of the series. Coupled with a rich cast of supernatural creatures each with their unique traits, Dark supernatural powers, talents, and purposes, the world of Hidden: First Born is an intricate one that offers an immersive viewing experience.

With elements of both supernatural fantasy and crime thriller, Hidden: First Born is not just another run-of-the-mill television series. It delivers an intriguing and dark atmosphere that brilliantly contrasts with the bright and vibrant cityscape of modern Stockholm. Amidst these striking visuals, the show navigates serious themes of identity, belonging, and power while offering a heart-pounding narrative that's hard to put on pause.

Then there's the crime aspect of the show which introduces a layered, and complex mystery. Blanka is no ordinary heroine. She's required to balance her responsibility towards her supernatural kin while working cases in her human life, straddling two worlds that are poles apart. The manner in which crimes from the human world slowly interconnect with the conflicts of the Hidden realm keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats.

In essence, Hidden: First Born is a unique blend of Scandi noir and supernatural fiction, packed with unexpected twists and turns. The deeply captivating world-building is brought to life by a compelling script and commendable performances, providing a high-stakes narrative that keeps viewers engrossed and invested. The integration of supernatural elements within a contemporary society setting adds an unexpected thrill to the familiar sight of city skylines, shadowy alleys, and everyday people. First Born is a series that rapidly moves from tense meetings on crowded streets to violent showdowns in creepy hideaways, fast-paced chases through the busy city, and quiet moments of introspection in hidden corners.

Skillfully acted and full of emotional arcs, Hidden: First Born is a commendable testimony to the potential of international television drama synthesis across genres. The series links modern society with an ancient, supernatural world, blending crime drama with fantasy elements to produce an explosive and suspenseful tale.

So, if you're looking for a show that keeps you guessing, sparks your intrigue, and offers a unique twist to the supernatural genre, Hidden: First Born is the series for you. It's an exciting entry to the realm of genre-blended television dramas that promises to take viewers on a ride they won't forget.