Murder 24/7

Murder 24/7 is a gripping and immersive crime documentary series aired on BBC 1 in 2020. The series presents an intriguing look at murder investigations as they unfold over time, offering a raw real-life depiction of crime-solving in action and granting viewers a ticket behind the scenes. The title suggests the continuous, persistent nature of the investigative work, reflecting the intensity and urgency that characterises murder cases.

The series gives the audience a view of the excruciating work put in to solve these high-profile murder cases, showing how law enforcement authorities are forced to function under the constant ticking of the clock, knowing that every second count. It also shines a light on different aspects of an investigation - from murder to the identification of suspects, arrests, and, finally, resolution.

From the initial crime scene to the tireless collection and analysis of evidence, Murder 24/7 takes viewers on an eye-opening journey through the landscape of the criminal investigations, providing unique insight into the relentless quest for justice. The series does an excellent job of intertwining narrative storytelling with documentary-style interviews and footage. It presents the investigations as they happen in real-time, breaking down each stage of discussion, planning and confronting, giving the audiences a sense of the stakes and intensity of the situation.

The uniqueness of Murder 24/7 lies in its element of reality and its endeavour to showcase the unfiltered truth to viewers. Unlike typical crime dramas, the show does not embellish or dramatise its content. Instead, it utilises its platform to tell the story authentically, withholding no harsh realities. The series extends beyond forensics, presenting an all-encompassing view of the investigation, making room for viewers to witness every facet of crime-solving from a raw and human perspective.

A predominant aspect of Murder 24/7 is its focus on team dynamics where detectives, forensic experts, family liaison officers and an array of other key figures work together towards obtaining justice. The interconnectedness of different departments and the division of labour that marks a cohesive investigation is well-documented, shedding light on how intricate and complicated these investigations can be.

The series also underscores the emotional toll on the personnel involved in the investigation. Viewers can feel the strain on the officers as they grapple with the enormity of their responsibility: to deliver justice and provide clarity to grieving families.

Notably, Murder 24/7 does not detract from the human stories at the core of these investigations. It takes care to portray the victims and their families empathetically, emphasising their suffering and loss. In doing this, the series manages to combine the gravity of crime-solving with a poignant narrative about human resilience and hope.

BBC 1's Murder 24/7 is not just another crime documentary; it is a sincere portrayal of the intricate tapestry of a murder investigation. Its rawness, authenticity, and attention to detail stand out, making it an invaluable addition to the genre. This series is undoubtedly a must-watch for true crime aficionados interested in understanding what happens off-camera during an investigation. As crime shows go, Murder 24/7 sets itself apart with its stark realism, offering a relentless journey into the pursuit of justice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.