The film was shot in Edinburgh, Scotland, bringing to life a gripping crime thriller based on the famous Danish novels by Jussi Adler-Olsen. This series immerses us in the world of Inspector Carl Mørck, a brilliant but deeply troubled detective. He is tasked with leading a new cold case unit, aptly named 'Department Q', which forces him to confront unsolved mysteries and his own complex past. Mørck is portrayed as a fascinating character, combining the sharp intellect and often abrasive personality of Dr. House with the insightful deductive reasoning of Sherlock Holmes. The casting of Matthew Goode, known for his refined and elegant portrayal of a vampire in the series 'A Discovery of Witches', adds another layer of intrigue to the lead role, promising a compelling and multifaceted performance. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of historically rich and architecturally diverse Edinburgh.

Filming Locations:

St Cuthbert's Churchyard

In the Film

The scene where the series begins with prosecutor Merritt Lingard, played by Chloe Pirrie, takes place at St Cuthbert's Churchyard, a historic necropolis. This poignant location is situated in the western part of Princes Street in Edinburgh, famously nestled under the imposing shadow of Edinburgh Castle, setting a somber and atmospheric tone for the start of the narrative.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at St Cuthbert's Churchyard

Dundas House (Courthouse Interior)

In the Film

The scene where the interior of the courthouse is depicted was filmed at Dundas House, a magnificent neoclassical mansion. This location, which currently functions as the headquarters of the Royal Bank of Scotland, showcases a stunning star-domed ceiling above its banking hall, creating a luxurious and majestic backdrop for the legal drama unfolding within.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Dundas House, Royal Bank of Scotland

Warriston Close Steps (Courthouse Exterior Steps)

In the Film

The scene where Merritt ascends the Warriston Close steps is pivotal, as it leads to the Edinburgh City Chambers. These historic steps provide a visual journey, guiding the prosecutor to the exterior of what serves as the courthouse in the series, adding a sense of narrative progression and significance to her approach.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Warriston Close

Eagle House Hospital

In the Film

The scene where the fictional Eagle House Hospital is depicted shows Vogrie House, an imposing three-story sandstone mansion built in 1876. Located about 8 km southeast of Edinburgh in Midlothian, this building with its distinctive turrets provides a visually striking and historically rich backdrop for the hospital's portrayal in the series.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Vogrie House

Melville Street / St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral (Bus Stop Scene)

In the Film

The scene where Mørck gets off the bus takes place on Melville Street, located in Edinburgh's elegant West End. This area is characterized by its distinctive Georgian architecture. In the background, the imposing structure of St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral is clearly visible, adding a majestic landmark to the scene's cityscape.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Melville Street and St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral

Prince’s Garden Hotel

In the Film

The scene where in the fourth episode the Prince’s Garden Hotel is shown was actually filmed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh in North Queensferry. This establishment offers stunning panoramic views of the Firth of Forth and its iconic bridges, providing a memorable and picturesque backdrop for the events unfolding in that particular episode.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh in North Queensferry