The first shot of Detective Forst lingers on a snow-covered landscape, the Tatra Mountains standing as silent witnesses to the chaos about to unfold. This isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right, its rugged beauty contrasting with the brutal murders that will soon shake the resort town of Zakopane. Created by Daniel Jaroszek and Mikołaj Piszczan, this Polish crime drama series, released on Netflix in January 2024, is based on the Forst series by Remigiusz Mróz. It’s a story that wears its setting like a second skin, using the isolation of the mountains to amplify the tension and mystery.

At the heart of Detective Forst is Borys Szyc as Detective Wiktor Forst, a gruff investigator with a penchant for unconventional methods. Szyc brings a gruff charisma to the role, embodying Forst’s cynicism and effectiveness with equal measure. His performance is the series’ standout element, anchoring the narrative with a compelling blend of intensity and vulnerability. When a professor is murdered in Zakopane, Forst teams up with journalist Olga Szrebska, played by Zuzanna Saporznikow. Their partnership is the emotional core of the series, with Szyc and Saporznikow sharing a palpable chemistry that drives the investigation forward.

The supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Andrzej Bienias shines as Inspector Edmund Osica, Forst’s pragmatic counterpart whose unwavering dedication to procedure clashes with Forst’s unorthodox approach. Kamilla Baar delivers a nuanced performance as Dominika Wadryś-Hansen, a character entangled in the web of deceit that unfolds as the series progresses. Each actor brings their own unique flavor to the story, contributing to a richly layered ensemble.

The series’ setting is more than just a location; it’s a participant in the story. The Tatra Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, their rugged beauty contrasting sharply with the brutal murders that unfold at their base. The environment isn’t just a setting; it’s a character that shapes the actions of the investigators and influences the plot’s direction. The cinematography captures this duality beautifully, with sweeping shots of the mountains juxtaposed against intimate close-ups that reveal the characters’ emotional turmoil.

However, Detective Forst stumbles in its execution. The pacing is uneven, with some episodes dragging while others rush through crucial developments. This inconsistency disrupts the narrative flow, making it difficult to maintain suspension of disbelief. The series also suffers from a confusing and unsatisfying ending. While it attempts to tie up loose ends, the resolution feels rushed and convoluted, leaving viewers more frustrated than satisfied.

The narrative structure could have benefited from tighter editing. Several subplots feel underdeveloped, and some characters are introduced without clear purpose or payoff. The series’ attempt to weave together multiple storylines results in a tangled mess that obscures rather than illuminates the central mystery. For instance, the introduction of Gjord Hansen/Iwo Elijah, played by Maciej Pesta, Forst’s childhood friend-turned-foe, adds an intriguing layer but feels rushed and under-explored.

Despite these flaws, Detective Forst has moments of genuine brilliance. The cinematography is stunning, with sweeping shots of the Tatra Mountains and intimate close-ups that capture the characters’ emotional turmoil. The series also tackles themes of justice, morality, and the cost of truth, adding a layer of depth to its crime drama foundation. These thematic explorations elevate the narrative beyond mere procedural fare, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of human nature and the ethical dilemmas inherent in the pursuit of justice.

In comparison to other crime dramas, Detective Forst stands out for its unique setting and strong central performance. However, it falls short in terms of pacing and narrative coherence. For fans of atmospheric crime thrillers like The Killing or Broadchurch, Detective Forst offers a fresh perspective but may frustrate with its uneven execution.

The series is best suited for viewers who appreciate complex characters and richly detailed settings. Those looking for a tightly plotted mystery with clear resolutions may find Detective Forst disappointing. However, those willing to navigate the narrative’s rough patches will be rewarded with compelling performances and stunning visuals.

Ultimately, Detective Forst is a gripping but uneven crime thriller. It’s saved by strong performances and breathtaking visuals, but let down by pacing issues and a confusing conclusion.