Watch Cracker

Cracker is a gripping crime drama series that was aired on ITV from 1993 to 1996. The show stars Robbie Coltrane as Dr. Edward "Fitz" Fitzgerald, a criminal psychologist who is called upon by the police to help them catch serial killers and other deranged criminals. Co-starring alongside Coltrane is the talented Geraldine Somerville, who plays the role of Fitz's wife, Judith.

The show explores the dark and disturbing world of serial killers and the psychological toll it takes on both the investigators and victims' families. Each episode features a new case with Fitz, who is a brilliantly flawed and complex character, using his expertise to try and understand the mind of the murderer and solve the case.

Throughout the series, Fitz's character is explored in-depth, including his struggles with alcoholism, flippancy, and infidelity. He's an unconventional hero, often abrasive and irreverent, but also deeply committed to his work and the pursuit of justice.

The show's creators did an excellent job crafting suspenseful and complex cases that ultimately reveal the killer's motivations and methods. The show isn't afraid to delve into some incredibly dark and disturbing territory, but it's always handled with sensitivity and care. The show also features a strong supporting cast, including Ricky Tomlinson, Christopher Eccleston, and Barbara Flynn, who all deliver exceptional performances.

Aside from the gripping cases and compelling characters, Cracker is also notable for its exceptional writing and direction. Show creator Jimmy McGovern crafts each episode with precision and care, taking the time to explore the nuances of each character and the twisted motivations of the killers. The show's direction is also top-notch, with a mix of claustrophobic and wide-angle shots that create an intense and unsettling atmosphere.

One of the show's most significant strengths is its attention to detail. The show features intricate plotlines that always tie-up neatly by the end of the episode. The show's creators also devote plenty of time to exploring the psychological effects of the cases on Fitz and the other characters, creating a sense of realism that's often missing in other crime dramas.

Musically, the show is sublime, with an outstanding score that complements the show's dark themes perfectly. The music never overshadows the narrative, but it's always there to accentuate the emotion and intensity of each scene.

Overall, Cracker is a powerhouse of a show, one that excels at crafting complex and suspenseful cases while also exploring the psychological toll that these crimes take on everyone involved. The show is thought-provoking, emotionally charged, and at times incredibly dark, but it's always handled with care and sensitivity.

Even today, twenty-five years after the show first aired, it stands as one of the best crime-drama series ever made. Its influence can be seen in many of the other shows that came after it, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of creators and writers.

If you're a fan of crime dramas, or just great television, you owe it to yourself to check out Cracker. It's a masterclass in storytelling and a show that will stay with you long after the final credits roll.

Cracker is a series that ran for 5 seasons (36 episodes) between September 27, 1993 and on ITV