Rolf Börjilind’s crime series Beck, is the only show that has managed to keep itself interesting to watch despite airing for the past 26 years. This TV show, initially produced for Egmont Film, first premiered on Swedish TV on 27th June 1997.
Completely inspired by the characters featured in Maj Sjöwall’s novels, Beck follows the story of Martin Beck, an unassuming middle-aged detective that seems to have an innate skill for solving all kinds of puzzling crimes.
As rightful and calm as Martin likes to be, his partner, Gunvald Larsson, is his total opposite. Gunvald is an impulsive man who would go to any length to solve the mystery behind the city’s crimes.
Together, Gunvald and Beck make the perfect duo and balance each other out during the investigations for the homicide team. With so many intricately planned out crimes taking place in the city, detectives like Martin and Gunvald are necessary as they can see what is usually invisible to the normal eye.
Their partnership has been loved by viewers enough to keep it running for almost 3 decades, with the latest season of this crime show airing on 25th December 2023 (1st July 2023 for the UK).
The cast of Beck includes Peter Haber in the role of the titular character, Mikael Persbrandt plays the role of Gunvald, Rebecka Hemse plays Inger Beck, and Ingvar Hirdwall portrays Valdemar Grannen. Other cast members that have been in a few seasons of Beck include Marie Göranzon, Peter Hüttner, Stina Rautelin, and Bo Höglund.
Beck: Filming Locations
Each 1-hour long episode of Beck takes us through a new case of the day, where we see the special homicide team sending Beck and Gunvald to investigate it. They uncover all sorts of information about the murder, no matter how insignificant it may seem. In the end, this duo executes the task given to them successfully.
Since most of the cases they solve seem to be based in Stockholm, that’s exactly where the entirety of the series is filmed. Being the capital of Sweden has caused this city to become a hub for films, businesses, and various other public entertainment spots.
While Stockholm is a prime location for filming this show, we sometimes shift to nearby areas if the episode calls for it. This is done to keep the backgrounds realistic while also providing a change of scene.
Stockholm, Stockholms Iän, Sweden:
Since major filming takes place only in Stockholm, some popular locations around the city can be easily recognized throughout the episodes. A densely populated place like Stockholm with a perfect city atmosphere was just what a show like Beck needed.
Martin’s apartment is located at Bergsunds Strand 31, Södermalm, Stockholm. This area is filled with lively music and restaurants. On weekends, the place where a fictional Martin Beck lives becomes the spot for flea markets and food trucks. Asides from Beck, other television series and movies that have been filmed in Stockholm include The Love Boat, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, and Independence Day.
Beck: About The Show
Crime procedural dramas are always entertaining to watch, but it’s shows like Beck that manage to stay around for the longest time despite not having many major plot changes throughout the years. With a new case each day, Beck and Gunvald’s partnership in solving it is what kept the series interesting for viewers of all ages.
Mikael Persbrandt, However, did not return for Beck’s 5th season, which began airing on January 1st, 2016. He left the show to pursue other opportunities but did return for Season 6, episode 1. Despite the lack of Gunvald, Beck continues coming out with more seasons with only Martin and Steinar Hovland as its protagonists.
Over the years, Beck has received many positive reviews for its plot and style of revealing things at the right time. To see a show that many grew up watching still come out with great episodes is a good feeling, and it is what made Beck one of the best shows from Sweden.
All seasons of Beck are available to stream on Apple TV, YouTube TV, Netflix, and BBC iplayer.
Also Read: Where Is The Walking Dead: Dead City Filmed? All Locations
