The Fall Television Series Review

The fall takes a dark, twisty look into the life of serial killer, Paul Spector (Jamie Dornan, Fifty Shades of Grey) and the lead detective on the murder cases, Stella Gibson (Gillian Anderson). With a large supportive cast, the show has a very entertaining premise and strong actors that deliver incredible performances.

Set in Belfast, Ireland, the show relies on the beautiful imagery of the city to even out the dark themes of the show. Even the dark scenes are handled beautifully. When Paul Spector stalks and then takes down his prey, something that happens very often in season 1, the action is paced so brilliantly that even if viewers are uncomfortable with violence, they will not be able to look away.

Season 1 of the Fall takes viewers on a thrilling ride into the inner workings of an investigation and into the deeply complex life of a serial killer. Paul Spector, a bereavement counselor, hides in plain sight, living a seemingly ordinary life with his wife and two kids. Watching Spector lead this life makes it hard to accept the reality of his situation. While the scenes of him committing the murders are horrifying, the show slows down to show him being a loving father to his six-year-old daughter. This juxtaposition makes it hard not to root for him.

Season 2 focuses more of the fall of Paul Spector and the minor victories of Stella Gibson leading up to a big victory. While season 2 is less action packed than Season 1, the finale redeems it by delivering one excellent scene after the other ending in a cliffhanger that will have viewers gaping at the screen.

Just as you start to lose interest in the show, it pulls you back in again. With a wide range of minor characters with equally compelling storylines, the Fall will have you questioning everything you know about serial killers and Jamie Dornan’s portrayal will have you running you to the theatres to watch Fifty Shades.

The Fall is available on Netflix Australia.