26 Scandinavian Detective Thrillers You Should Watch

Description: This Swedish film adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel introduces us to Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but troubled hacker, and Mikael Blomkvist, a disgraced journalist. Their investigation into a decades-old disappearance unravels a web of corruption and dark secrets. It's a cornerstone of Scandinavian noir, blending social commentary with a gripping mystery.

Fact: The film was so successful that it led to an American remake in 2011, directed by David Fincher. The Swedish version, however, remains closer to the source material.

Description: This Swedish crime thriller follows three intertwined stories of people from different walks of life, all drawn into the world of organized crime. It's a gritty, fast-paced narrative that captures the allure and danger of the criminal underworld.

Fact: The film spawned two sequels and was adapted into a Netflix series in

Description: Based on Jo Nesbø's novel, this Norwegian thriller follows Roger Brown, a headhunter by day and an art thief by night. His life spirals out of control when he steals a painting from a man with a dark past. The film is a rollercoaster of suspense, dark humor, and unexpected twists.

Fact: The film was Norway's highest-grossing film of all time until it was surpassed by "The Wave" in

Description: Based on Jo Nesbø's novel, this Norwegian thriller follows detective Harry Hole as he investigates a series of murders linked by snowmen left at the crime scenes. Despite mixed reviews, it's a visually stunning film with a compelling mystery at its core.

Fact: The film was shot in Norway, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.

Description: Though not strictly a detective thriller, this Danish film explores the aftermath of a false accusation of child molestation in a small town. It's a gripping study of mob mentality, justice, and the fragility of reputation, making it a must-watch for its psychological depth.

Fact: Mads Mikkelsen won the Best Actor Award at the Cannes Film Festival for his role in this film.

Description: Based on Jussi Adler-Olsen's novel, this Danish film introduces Carl Mørck, who heads a new department for cold cases. His first case involves a woman who disappeared five years ago, leading to a chilling discovery. It's a masterclass in suspense and character development.

Fact: The film is the first in a series of adaptations of Adler-Olsen's Department Q novels.

Description: Another entry in the Department Q series, this film follows Carl Mørck as he investigates the murder of a brother and sister, uncovering a dark conspiracy involving a group of elite students.

Fact: The film was shot in Copenhagen and features some of the city's most iconic locations.

Description: This Danish film is a real-time thriller where an emergency operator, Asger, receives a call from a kidnapped woman. The entire film takes place in a single location, showcasing the power of minimalism in storytelling.

Fact: The film was remade in the U.S. in 2021 with Jake Gyllenhaal in the lead role.

Description: Although a TV series, this Swedish-Danish production is included for its cinematic quality and its impact on the genre. It follows detectives from Sweden and Denmark who must work together when a body is found on the bridge connecting their countries.

Fact: The series has been remade in several countries, including the U.S. and France.

Description: The third film in the Department Q series, where Carl Mørck and his team delve into a case involving forced sterilization in the 1950s, which has repercussions in the present day. It's a complex narrative that intertwines past and present.

Fact: The film explores Denmark's dark history of eugenics, providing a historical context to the crime.