Outlier

Outlier is an intriguing Nordic crime-drama television series that aired on HBO Nordic in 2020. The show, an international production from Norway, presents itself as a multifaceted mystery, seasoned along the way with deliberate pacing, deeply textured characters, and an ambient, atmospheric setting that provides a vivid backdrop to the haunting narrative.

The narrative centers around Maja Angell, the protagonist, an unconventional criminology student studying in London. She possesses an extraordinary ability to understand and interpret the criminal mind, and she proves over and over throughout the series that she does not see life and crime like the average person. Her unique perspective bears an uncanny resemblance to the world of criminal profiling and forensic investigations, pushing her toward perilous situations and making her a successful outlier in her field.

Upon learning about the mysterious disappearance of a young girl back in her small hometown in the cold, rugged landscapes of Northern Norway, Maja feels a compelling personal connection to the case. There’s something peculiar about the incident that she simply can’t let go. Armoured by her intuitive genius and motivated by a deeply personal drive, she decides to return home, coming face to face with her complex past and, much to the angst of the local police, immerse herself in the perplexing case.

Throughout the series, Maja's character is tested from every angle. Her steely determination and commitment to solving the years-old case make her an engaging, inspiring leading figure. It's impressive to see how Maja’s unique point of view often leads her to insights that others in law enforcement typically overlook. This clash between Maja's unorthodox methods and the traditional law enforcement approach forms the undercurrent of the show and constantly keeps viewers on edge.

In spite of her brilliance, Maja is a deeply flawed protagonist. She is grappling with her own personal demons and a past fraught with hardship and loss, feeding into her determination to solve the case and providing a relatable human element to her character.

Outlier unfolds its narrative at a deliberate pace, each episode diving deeper into the intricate mystery and offering new layers to the plot. The show excels at maintaining its dramatic tension, leaving the audience with enough questions at the end of each episode to eagerly anticipate the next. Furthermore, the show explores themes of isolation, secrecy, and the grey area between right and wrong. It presents an intersection of personal and professional paths, exploring how those intersections affect our choices and actions, further enhancing its overall complexity and depth.

The Scandinavian influence is very visible in the aesthetic and tonal elements of the show. It stays true to its dramatic roots, capturing the darker beauty of the Northern landscapes, reflecting the coldness and isolation of the setting, and contributing to the overall chilling ambiance of the narrative. Also, the light and shadow play skillfully used throughout the series help in creating a captivating and suspenseful atmosphere. The cinematography, thus, becomes an integral part of the show's storytelling process.

The series features a well-executed script, noteworthy performances, and an emotionally enticing storyline, making it a compelling viewing experience. The tight, suspenseful episodes touch on several social issues and customs unique to Scandinavian culture, adding an intriguing layer of cultural exploration to the intense thrill of the series.

In the end, Outlier is a well-crafted, intense crime drama that infuses the traditional detective genre with a hefty dose of Nordic noir vibes. Its innovative fusion of crime and psychological investigation, married with a culturally rich narrative, offers an engaging watch for those who are a fan of mysteries, crime dramas, and suspense thrillers. It is a well-rounded series, which is not only convincing through its intelligently devised storyline but also its vivid, atmospheric setting, and a cast of intriguing, multi-dimensional characters.