Midnight Sun

Midnight Sun is an enthralling and captivating 2016 crime drama series hailing from Sweden's national broadcasting company, Sveriges Television (SVT). This series has been praised for its unique storytelling, stunning visuals, and diverse and well-realised characters by critics and audiences alike. While grounded in the conventions of the traditional Nordic noir genre, the series transcends through its innovative narrative structure, vibrant character development, and unflinching exploration of social issues.

Centred in Kiruna, the northernmost city in Sweden, Midnight Sun weaves a brilliant tale set against scenes of unspoiled landscapes and the striking background of the perpetual daylight of the polar summer. The mesmerising natural beauty of the area, especially the ever-present sun, offers a sublime backdrop that enhances not just the aesthetics, but also provides a peculiar, uneasy atmosphere, that serves to tug the strings of tension within the plot.

At its core, Midnight Sun is a murder mystery in the guise of a culture clash drama. The series kickstarts with an inexplicable, atrocious murder in the heart of Kiruna. The unsettling crime scene draws the attention of French detective, Kahina Zadi (portrayed by Leïla Bekhti), who is tasked with leaving Paris and delaying her own personal struggles to solve this gruesome case. Upon her arrival in Sweden, Kahina partners with the local Swedish prosecutor, Anders Harnesk (Gustaf Hammarsten). Their partnership becomes an intriguing highlight as we see a Parisian woman coming to terms with foreign customs, while forming an unlikely bond with a man deeply entrenched in the culture of the indigenous Sámi people.

The personal narratives of Kahina and Anders, richly layered and equally engaging, serve as the heart of the series. Kahina, with her tough exterior and complex backstory, brilliantly contrasts with Anders, who portrays an earnest detective dealing with a life away from modern complexities. The prowess of the lead actors enriches the tense, dark, and convoluted narrative that characterises Midnight Sun.

Midnight Sun does not shy away from addressing potent social issues. The series infuses elements of environmental threats and highlights the marginalized indigenous Sámi people, conveying an often-forgotten narrative that adds another dimension to the series. The representation of indigenous culture, embroiled in the modern threat to their way of life, is an enriching perspective within the broader crime genre.

What sets Midnight Sun apart from other crime dramas is its innovative narrative structure. The mystery unravels at an impeccable pace, maintaining suspense throughout the series. Red herrings and surprising plot twists are skilfully embedded within the plot, and the creators play adeptly with viewers’ perceptions throughout the series. Furthermore, the uncanny interplay between the horror of the murder investigation and intricacies of Sami culture intricacies adds depth and flavour to the plot, resulting in both a riveting whodunit and profound social commentary.

The technical aspects of the series, including cinematography and direction, are equally noteworthy. The stunning visuals of the polar landscapes are captured beautifully, and the direction ensures that the tension remains consistently high throughout all eight episodes. The series also includes striking sound design and uses a haunting yet melodious score to heighten the series' intense and atmospheric tone.

In conclusion, Midnight Sun is a compelling crime series that effectively amalgamates traditional Nordic noir with a deeply atmospheric setting, engrossing characters and thought-provoking insights. The series takes audiences on a thrilling journey filled with incredible twists and turns, captivating landscapes and fascinating cultural contrasts that leave the viewer eager for more after each episode. A daring narrative, sophisticated storytelling, and brilliant performances make Midnight Sun an enthralling watch for crime drama enthusiasts.