Are you ready to explore the world of Nordic noir? Netflix has a treasure trove of Scandinavian series. Each one offers a mix of suspense, intrigue, and stunning storytelling. These shows, from crime dramas to political thrillers, have won fans all over the world. They showcase the incredible talent of Scandinavian TV. Here are 10 best Scandinavian series to watch on Netflix.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the allure of Nordic noir, a genre known for its bleak but beautiful backdrops and complex narratives.
- Discover the depth and versatility of Scandinavian series, ranging from Swedish psychological thrillers to Norwegian crime dramas.
- Enjoy the unique storytelling and compelling characters that have made these shows international sensations.
- Experience the atmospheric settings, from snowy landscapes to frozen fjords, that often play a central role in these captivating series.
- Dive into the diverse range of themes, from political corruption to post-apocalyptic survival, that define the Scandinavian television landscape.
“The Bridge” – A Transnational Crime Thriller
Fans of Nordic noir crime dramas will love “The Bridge.” It’s a series that started the Scandi Noir TV genre. The story begins with a body found right in the middle of the Öresund Bridge, which links Sweden and Denmark. This unique setting leads to a thrilling investigation, as police from both countries work together to solve the mystery.
At the center of “The Bridge” are Saga, a Swedish detective with Asperger’s, and Martin, her Danish partner. Their different ways of solving crimes make for an exciting watch. The show also highlights the stunning Öresund Bridge and the cultural differences between Sweden and Denmark. It’s a must-see for fans of Swedish crime shows, Danish dramas, and Nordic noir.
“The Bridge” has been a hit, running for four seasons and 38 episodes since 2011. It’s known for its complex stories, deep characters, and tackling of big social issues. It’s been shown in over 100 countries, making it a top choice among Scandinavian series on Netflix.
“The Rain” – Scandinavian Post-Apocalyptic Drama
“The Rain” is a gripping post-apocalyptic drama for fans of Nordic noir. It premiered in 2018 and follows siblings Simone and Rasmus. They leave a bunker into a world hit by a deadly virus spread by rain.
This Danish series spans three seasons and 20 episodes. It’s a story of survival, trust, and finding a cure. Set in Scandinavia, it mixes psychological thriller and science fiction, making it a dystopian journey.
The cast includes Alba August, Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen, and Mikkel Boe Følsgaard. They bring depth to the characters’ struggles in the new world. The series explores trust, betrayal, and the quest for normalcy.
The Rain combines the dark feel of Nordic noir with a haunting atmosphere. It’s a must-see for fans of Danish dramas and Scandinavian series on Netflix. Its unique blend of genres makes it unforgettable.
“Dark” – Unraveling Time Travel Mysteries
Scandinavian series fans on Netflix will love “Dark”. It’s a German science fiction thriller that dives into time travel mysteries. This Netflix original is the platform’s first German-language show. It has drawn viewers with its complex storylines, atmospheric settings, and deep narrative.
“Dark” spans three seasons and 26 episodes. It starts with the disappearance of two kids in a small German town. This leads to a time travel conspiracy that goes across generations. The series is praised for its acting, direction, and stunning visuals. It was ranked the 58th greatest TV series of the 21st century by the BBC in 2021.
Though not strictly Nordic noir, “Dark” has many of its genre’s traits. It has a moody tone and focuses on complex mysteries. The time travel plot, central to the story, reminds viewers of “Doctor Who”. Like those shows, “Dark” explores the effects of changing the past and the essence of time.
For fans of Scandinavian series, Norwegian thrillers, and Nordic noir’s storytelling depth, “Dark” is a must-watch on Netflix. Its intricate plot and time-bending twists will keep viewers hooked. It offers the same immersive experience as the best Scandinavian TV shows.
“Borgen” – Politics in the Danish Kingdom
“Borgen” is a must-watch for fans of Nordic noir and Danish dramas on Netflix. It’s a political thriller that dives into Danish politics. It shows the power dynamics and the personal lives of politicians in a realistic way.
The series started in Denmark in 2010 and has since gained a global audience. It’s been broadcast in many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia. Fans worldwide have been hooked.
Birgitte Nyborg, Denmark’s first female Prime Minister, is at the heart of the series. Her political journey is explored over the seasons. The show’s realistic portrayal of politics has been praised, making it a standout in the Nordic noir genre.
The latest season, “Borgen: Power & Glory,” sees Nyborg as Foreign Minister. She navigates international relations, especially with Greenland’s oil discovery. This season explores the tensions between Denmark and Greenland as Greenland seeks to assert its priorities.
“Borgen” has become one of the best Scandinavian series on Netflix. It has compelling characters, intricate plotlines, and a deep dive into Danish politics. Its storytelling has captivated audiences worldwide, showing the dramas within the kingdom’s political landscape.
“Trapped” – Icelandic Crime Drama
For fans of Nordic noir and Scandinavian series on Netflix, “Trapped” is a must-watch. This Icelandic crime drama has won hearts worldwide. It has two seasons, with each one full of mystery and intrigue.
The show boasts a talented cast, including Hinrika and Andri. They lead the local police in the small town of Siglufjörður. The series combines Iceland’s stunning landscapes with the tight spaces of small towns. This mix creates a unique and gripping atmosphere.
“Trapped” was made with a budget of around €6.5 million. It’s the most expensive TV show ever made in Iceland. This shows the high quality and detail that have made it a hit.
The third season, released in 2022, has six episodes. This makes the show even more engaging. With an IMDb rating of 8.0/10, “Trapped” has won fans worldwide. It’s a perfect blend of Nordic noir and Icelandic beauty.
“Ragnarok” – Modern Norse Mythology
“Ragnarok” is a hit for fans of Scandinavian series on Netflix and Nordic noir. It brings Norse mythology to life in a new way. The show is set in Edda, a town in Hordaland, and has three seasons with 18 episodes. It premiered in January 2020 and has since won over many viewers.
The cast is amazing, with David Stakston as Magne Seier, Thor’s reincarnation. Jonas Strand Gravli plays Laurits Seier, the reincarnation of Loki. The show mixes modern drama with Norse mythology, focusing on family secrets and supernatural powers.
The first season’s episodes, like “New Boy” and “541 Meters,” introduce viewers to the world of Norwegian thrillers. Each episode is 38 to 55 minutes long. This makes “Ragnarok” a deep and engaging watch for fans of Scandinavian series on Netflix.
If you love Nordic noir or are looking for something new, “Ragnarok” is perfect. It has a talented cast, exciting storylines, and a mix of modern and mythological elements. This Norwegian series on Netflix is sure to keep you hooked.
“Lilyhammer” – A Gangster in Norway
“Lilyhammer” is a unique twist on Norwegian thrillers, available on Netflix. It follows Frank “The Fixer” Tagliano, a New York gangster, as he moves to Lillehammer, Norway. He’s in the witness protection program.
This show has 24 episodes over three seasons. It has a 7.9/10 rating on IMDb from over 33,000 reviews. It mixes crime drama, comedy, and black humor, offering a fresh take on Nordic noir. Frank’s fish-out-of-water experiences in Norway are a highlight.
“Lilyhammer” first aired in Norway in 2012, drawing 998,000 viewers. It became Netflix’s first exclusive show, with all eight first-season episodes available for streaming. It explores gangster life, witness protection, and starting anew in a foreign country.
The show’s performances, storylines, and cultural insights make it a standout. It’s a must-see for fans of Scandinavian series on Netflix. Its popularity and acclaim make it a great choice for binge-watching Nordic noir.
“Occupied” – Norway’s Political Scenario
If you love Norwegian thrillers and Scandinavian series on Netflix, “Occupied” is a must-see. It’s a gripping political drama that imagines Norway invaded by Russia. This is because of a big energy crisis in Europe. The show’s budget of 90 million kr (US$11 million) shows in its detailed plot and beautiful visuals.
The series has 3 seasons and 24 episodes. It has a 7.6/10 rating on IMDb and a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes. It tells the story of Norway fighting to stay free and the tough choices its people make. The mix of Nordic noir and political thriller makes it very engaging.
“Occupied” shows a realistic take on a Russia-led invasion and the fightback. It makes you think about the balance between a country’s freedom and global power. The show has been sold to many countries, proving the lasting appeal of Nordic noir.
Whether you’re into Norwegian thrillers, Scandinavian series on Netflix, or Nordic noir, “Occupied” is a must-watch. It combines politics, drama, and tough choices in a unique way. Get ready to be hooked by this intense look at Norway’s political world.
“Wallander” – Swedish Detective Series
If you love Swedish crime shows and Nordic noir, “Wallander” is a must-watch. It’s based on Henning Mankell’s novels. The series follows detective Kurt Wallander as he solves mysteries in southern Sweden’s beautiful yet moody landscapes.
There are two versions to watch: the original Swedish one and the English remake with Kenneth Branagh. Both are on Netflix. They show the dark and atmospheric world of Scandinavian crime dramas. The series is set in Ystad and is known for its slow storytelling and deep character development.
Visitors can see the old train station in Ystad, where Wallander’s police station was filmed. This adds to the experience of watching Swedish crime shows. With its gripping stories and beautiful scenery, “Wallander” is a standout among Nordic noir on Netflix.
“Deadwind” – Finnish Crime Thriller
If you love Nordic noir and Scandinavian crime dramas on Netflix, “Deadwind” is for you. Known as “Karppi” in Finnish, it’s a hit with fans. It offers atmospheric landscapes, complex stories, and interesting characters.
The show has 3 seasons and 28 episodes. It follows Sofia Karppi, a detective in Helsinki, as she solves murder cases. With a 7.3/10 IMDb rating and over 160 reviews, it’s a favorite among viewers.
“Deadwind” stands out because of its Finnish setting. It’s a beautiful backdrop for its crime stories. Fans love the show’s use of Helsinki’s streets and the Finnish countryside.
The third season’s release has fans excited. The show is known for its complex characters, detailed plots, and suspense. It’s a top pick for anyone looking for a gripping Finnish crime thriller.
Wrapping up
Scandinavian series on Netflix show a wide range of stories that grab viewers worldwide. Shows like “The Bridge” and “Borgen” dive into human complexities. They come from countries like Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland.
These series offer everything from mysteries in “Trapped” to supernatural tales in “Ragnarok”. They give us a peek into the cultures and stories of these countries. Fans love the mix of crime, character stories, and deep thoughts on society.
More great shows are coming in 2024. Ten new Nordic TV series will keep the excitement going. From Iceland’s cold to Denmark’s cities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re new or a long-time fan, Netflix’s Scandinavian series are unforgettable.