Netflix‘s Dept. Q: A Darkly Comic Thriller That Could Rival Slow Horses
Netflix is gearing up to release Dept. Q, a gripping crime thriller that promises to deliver the same dark humor and suspenseful storytelling that made Slow Horses a fan favorite. Created by Scott Frank, the mastermind behind The Queen’s Gambit and Godless, this new series is already generating buzz among thriller enthusiasts.
A New Kind of Crime Drama
Dept. Q follows DCI Carl Morck, played by Matthew Goode (Watchmen), a brilliant detective with a sharp tongue and a troubled past. After a tragic shooting leaves a young officer dead and his partner paralyzed, Morck is exiled to the basement of the Edinburgh police department, where he is assigned to lead a cold case unit—Department Q.
What starts as a PR stunt soon turns into something far more dangerous. As Morck and his team of misfits begin digging into old cases, they uncover secrets that powerful people would rather keep buried.
Why Dept. Q Could Rival Slow Horses
Apple TV+’s Slow Horses has captivated audiences with its blend of espionage, dark humor, and flawed characters. Dept. Q seems poised to deliver a similar experience, with its focus on a dysfunctional team of investigators navigating a corrupt system.
Like Slow Horses, Dept. Q thrives on character-driven storytelling. Morck’s sarcastic wit and reluctant leadership mirror the dynamic of Jackson Lamb (Gary Oldman) in Slow Horses. The series also boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Chloe Pirrie (Black Mirror), Jamie Sives (Guilt), and Kelly Macdonald (Trainspotting).

The Queen’s Gambit Connection
Scott Frank’s involvement in Dept. Q is a major selling point. His work on The Queen’s Gambit showcased his ability to craft compelling narratives with complex characters. If Dept. Q follows the same formula, viewers can expect a slow-burn thriller packed with tension, intrigue, and unexpected twists.
Release Date and Expectations
Netflix has confirmed that Dept. Q will premiere on May 29. With its intriguing premise and talented cast, the series is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated crime dramas of the year.
Netflix‘s Dept. Q is generating a lot of buzz ahead of its release, and expectations are high for this darkly comic thriller. Here’s what viewers can anticipate:

- Gripping Storytelling: Adapted from Jussi Adler-Olsen’s bestselling novels, the series follows DCI Carl Morck, a brilliant but troubled detective leading a cold case unit. Expect intense investigations, unexpected twists, and morally complex characters
- Dark Humor & Suspense: Much like Slow Horses, Dept. Q blends sharp wit with high-stakes crime drama, making it a compelling watch for fans of intelligent thrillers.
- Strong Performances: Matthew Goode takes on the lead role, bringing depth and charisma to Morck’s character. The supporting cast, including Chloe Pirrie and Kelly Macdonald, adds further intrigue.
- Atmospheric Setting: The show is set in Edinburgh, Scotland, offering a visually stunning backdrop that enhances the mystery and tension.
- Scott Frank’s Signature Style: Known for The Queen’s Gambit, Frank’s storytelling expertise ensures a well-crafted narrative with rich character development.
- With its mix of psychological tension, dark humor, and gripping crime investigations, Dept. Q is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most anticipated releases of the year. Are you excited for it?
Final Thoughts
Netflix‘s Dept. Q has all the ingredients for a thrilling, darkly comic crime drama that could rival Slow Horses. With a gripping narrative, sharp humor, and an ensemble cast led by Matthew Goode, expectations are high.
Scott Frank’s involvement ensures top-tier storytelling, blending psychological tension with clever dialogue. If executed well, Dept. Q could become a must-watch series, capturing audiences with its intricate mysteries and compelling character dynamics.
Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, noir storytelling, or dark humor, this series is shaping up to be an exciting new addition to Netflix’s thriller lineup. Will Dept. Q surpass the success of Slow Horses? Only time will tell—but it’s certainly a show to watch out for.
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