I can usually handle some brutality and violence (in context), but I was squirming for far too much in this series. The Millennium trilogy and The Killing had some graphic violence but this tops them both. Despite some really solid acting and a few interesting political storylines, there was just such an overwhelming sense of foreboding, nastiness and just plain negativity that it was hard to focus on what was happening. Scandinavian dramas and shows are mostly far superior to most comparable series and movies out there, but this one has gone too far for me. There were some interesting relationships and social commentary and the 'noir' aspect of this genre certainly played out, but you will have a hard time finding it 'enjoyable'. Unless you like horror films. A pretty bleak representation of the racism, political back-stabbing and general malaise of Swedish society. At least Wallander had a bit of levity now and then. It's got a good pace and is definitely a 'thriller' but not for late night viewing I'd say.
