The Investigation: Ethics and Depth in True Crime Storytelling
Introduction to The Investigation and the Kim Wall Case
On a dark August night, a submarine disappears from Køge Bay, sparking widespread panic. Now available on TV2 PLAY and HBO Max, 'The Investigation' is a Danish-Swedish TV series from 2020 that portrays the thorough and human police work behind solving one of Scandinavia's most talked-about murders: journalist Kim Wall. The series, created by director Tobias Lindholm, known for 'Borgen' and 'Krigen', includes input from Wall's own parents. It emphasizes meticulous investigation, deliberately overlooking the murderer's identity. Miso Film is the main producer of this intense story shedding light on crime in Denmark.
Police Challenges and Ethical Standpoint in the Series
In 'The Investigation', viewers delve into the challenges police face in the search for the missing submarine – from navigating with side-scan sonar to handling the constant pressure from a demanding public. With Søren Malling playing homicide chief Jens Møller, the meticulous quest for justice is depicted, requiring technical skill and emotional balance. The series avoids portraying the perpetrator, serving both as a dramatic choice and an ethical stance addressing the true crime genre's tendency to focus on the criminal. Critics praise the series for its respectful distance and emotional reverence for the victims and their families, which The Independent called "a masterclass in respectful true crime storytelling."
The Investigation as an Ethical Crime Drama and Media Innovation
In a time when crime stories are often filled with sensationalism and violence, 'The Investigation' stands as an example of ethical crime drama. It won the Robert Award for Best TV Series in 2021 and has spurred discussions on media ethics and police procedures in criminal cases. The series' enduring relevance and depth make it not just a documentary triumph but also a necessary reflection on crime coverage and its consequences – a beacon in the often murky waters of true crime narratives. This crime drama from Denmark brings new perspectives to the genre, highlighting important topics such as murder, journalism, and the police's role in unsolved cases.