The acclaimed British crime drama 'Des', which first captivated audiences on ITV in 2020, has now arrived on Netflix, offering a new generation of viewers a chance to experience this harrowing true story.
A Chilling Portrayal of a Notorious Killer
The three-part series focuses on the arrest and trial of Dennis Nilsen, one of Britain's most prolific serial killers. David Tennant delivers a transformative performance in the lead role, portraying the civil servant who murdered young men in London between 1978 and 1983.
The series also features a stellar supporting cast, including Line of Duty actors Daniel Mays and Jason Watkins, as well as Ben Bailey Smith. Upon its original release, the show was widely praised for its 'outstanding' accuracy and Tennant's chillingly convincing depiction of Nilsen.
Audience Acclaim and Critical Praise
Viewers who saw the series during its initial broadcast were quick to highlight its powerful impact. One reviewer, Julie Morris, described it as 'truly gripping from the very beginning to the very end', noting that the casting was so effective you almost believed you were watching the real Nilsen.
Another viewer, identified as Aussie Shazza, commended the show's approach, stating: 'No actual murders are shown. It's not a standard murder drama... It's chilling enough without them.' The performance of Daniel Mays as Detective Peter Jay was also highlighted for its emotional depth, as his character was driven to identify all victims to provide closure for their families.
Gillian Gammon added to the praise, calling Tennant's performance 'a master' and noting the 'fabulously understated' acting from the entire ensemble created a powerfully atmospheric experience.
The Harrowing True Story Behind the Drama
Dennis Nilsen, known as the 'Kindly Killer', was a civil servant who preyed on vulnerable boys and young men. Over a five-year period, he murdered as many as 15 men, making him Britain's most prolific serial killer at the time of his arrest.
His crimes went undetected until February 9, 1983, when police were called to investigate human remains blocking the drainage system near his home. Nilsen was subsequently arrested and, on November 4, 1983, was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty on six counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
The killer died in police custody on May 12, 2018, at the age of 72. The series meticulously explores the police investigation and the complex psychological portrait of Nilsen, based on the book Killing for Company by Brian Masters.
Now available on Netflix, this true crime drama is poised for rediscovery, offering a sobering and masterfully acted look into one of the darkest chapters in British criminal history.
