Rated 4.2/5, This is One of the Best Crime Series in Recent Years!

Airing on the BBC from 2010 to 2019, the British series Luther quickly became a sensation, captivating audiences with its dark atmosphere and complex characters. Led by Idris Elba as Chief Inspector John Luther, the series delves into moral and psychological dilemmas with exceptional intensity, securing its place as one of the top television shows of the last decade.

A Deep Dive into the Nature of Good and Evil

Luther stands out for its exploration of the intricate nature of good and evil in the contemporary world. John Luther, a detective with unorthodox methods, personifies this complexity: is he a hero committed to rooting out evil, or a man on the edge, whose aggressive and impulsive actions wreak havoc?

The series challenges viewers to question the boundaries of justice and the morality of Luther’s actions. As echoed in Nina Simone’s song “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood”, featured on the show’s soundtrack, “I’m just a soul whose intentions are good.”

Terrifying and Memorable Villains

Luther’s adversaries are not just ordinary criminals; they are solitary psychopaths whose savagery defies understanding. They pose a nearly mythological threat, reminiscent of the villains in The Silence of the Lambs.

The series ventures into dark territories where evil is not merely the result of childhood trauma but appears to be deeply ingrained in the villains’ nature. This stark portrayal of evil resonates with the audience, lending the series a unique, intense horror aspect within the crime genre.

A Dark and Realistic Setting

The London depicted in Luther is a bleak world where light and hope are scarce. Scenes unfold in damp basements, shadowy alleys, and isolated locations that become stages for unimaginable horrors.

This grim setting enhances Luther’s sense of isolation, and each confrontation feels like a losing battle against evil. This oppressive atmosphere contributes to the show’s raw realism, creating a striking contrast with the polished worlds of classics like Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie.

A Series in Tune with Contemporary Concerns

Over five seasons, Luther has evolved with the times, capturing modern anxieties about evil. The series prompts reflection on justice, vengeance, and the costs of battling evil.

At the end of each season, Luther is left broken and isolated, symbolizing the exhausting and often thankless struggle to remain morally upright in an increasingly brutal world. This uncompromising exploration of morality makes Luther one of the most impactful series of our time. It was followed by a feature film, Luther: The Fallen Sun, on Netflix in 2023.

The complete Luther series is now available on Max.