The Fall

Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson arrives in Belfast to take a fresh look at a stalled investigation into a string of murders. Rather than a rushed procedural, the show unfolds as a slow-burning cat-and-mouse, following Gibson as she reshapes the local inquiry and squares off with a killer who blends into ordinary life. The series splits attention between investigative method and the private routines of the perpetrator, creating tension from the contrast between polite normality and brutal intent. Relationships between detectives, victims' families, and the suspect are treated with quiet intensity, and episodes build mood more than chasing easy thrills, so the outcome feels earned rather than telegraphed.

Created and written by Allan Cubitt, the series premiered in 2013 and ran through 2016. It was produced as a BBC Two and RTÉ co-production and stars Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan in the leads, with a supporting cast that includes Colin Morgan and John Lynch.

The show earned attention from television award bodies and critics alike, with nominations and recognition centered on acting and writing. Gillian Anderson's performance in particular attracted industry notice, and the series placed in various critics' lists during its run, reflecting respect for its craft even when viewers disagreed about pacing.

The Fall left a mark on crime drama by favoring psychological nuance over procedural spectacle. It helped raise Jamie Dornan's profile and reinforced Gillian Anderson's range beyond previous roles. The series also sparked public conversation about how serial crimes are portrayed on-screen, the depiction of victims, and the responsibilities of police drama when handling sensitive material.

Critics generally praised the acting and the show's patient tone, though some viewers found the tempo deliberate. Major themes include power, control, gender and the aftermath of violence, explored through character study rather than sensationalism. On aggregate sites the series holds a solid score, around a 7.7/10 average, reflecting strong support tempered by debate over its darker content and slow pacing.