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Wallander is a Swedish crime drama series that was originally broadcast between 2005 and 2013. The show stars Krister Henriksson as the eponymous Kurt Wallander, a detective with the Ystad police force who investigates a series of murders and other crimes in the surrounding area of Skåne County, Sweden. The show is based on a series of novels by Swedish author Henning Mankell.

Wallander follows the personal and professional life of Kurt Wallander as he tries to solve a range of difficult cases. Throughout the show, Wallander is plagued by existential angst, depression, and anxiety, often struggling to balance his dedication to his job with his own deteriorating mental health. The show explores themes of loneliness, loss, and the struggle to maintain a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

Wallander's investigations take him into the darkest corners of Swedish society, as he confronts a range of violent criminals and corrupt officials. The show is known for its gritty, realistic portrayal of crime and its impact on individuals and communities. Unlike many crime dramas, Wallander does not shy away from the ugly realities of violence and the toll it takes on those involved.

The show's supporting cast includes Fredrik Gunnarsson as Wallander's loyal colleague Martinsson, and Mats Bergman as his protégé and eventual replacement, the young detective Isabelle. Together, they work to unravel the complex web of motives and suspects that surround each case. The show features a strong supporting cast of recurring characters, including Wallander's daughter Linda (Johanna Sällström), who also works in law enforcement, and his father Povel (Erland Josephson), who suffers from Alzheimer's disease.

Wallander is a slow-paced, atmospheric show that focuses more on character development and psychological tension than action-packed crime-solving. The show is shot in a stark, minimalist style that emphasizes the bleak beauty of the Swedish landscape. The show's use of color, light, and shadow is particularly evocative, creating a sense of isolation and foreboding.

Overall, Wallander is a gripping crime drama that combines a deep exploration of character and psychology with an unflinching look at the realities of crime and violence. The show is well-acted, well-written, and deeply immersive, drawing viewers into the world of Kurt Wallander and the challenges he faces as a detective and as a human being. Whether you are a fan of crime dramas or simply enjoy nuanced, character-driven storytelling, Wallander is a show that should not be missed.