The Pembrokeshire Murders
The Pembrokeshire Murders

TV Show spotlight

The Pembrokeshire Murders

2021
TV Show
Ended
1 Season
English

Detective superintendent reopens two unsolved murder cases from the 1980s. Forensic methods link the crimes to a string of burglaries. Steve's team has to find more evidence before the perpetrator is released from prison.

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users88%
Director: Will McGregorGenres: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

This gripping true-crime drama miniseries follows Detective Inspector Steve Wilkins as he reinvestigates two notorious cold cases from the 1980s involving a string of brutal murders in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Driven by new forensic evidence and a persistent belief in the guilt of local farmer John Cooper, Wilkins and his team meticulously build a case over two decades. The series culminates in a dramatic courtroom showdown, piecing together the evidence to finally bring the killer to justice.

Critical Reception

The Pembrokeshire Murders was generally well-received by critics and audiences alike, particularly for its compelling true-crime narrative and Luke Evans's lead performance. Reviewers praised its suspenseful pacing and faithful portrayal of the complex investigation. Some noted its similarity to other police procedural dramas but lauded its grounded approach to a disturbing real-life case.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful and engaging true-crime storytelling.

  • Luke Evans delivers a strong, compelling performance as the determined detective.

  • The series is commended for its meticulous attention to detail in recounting the investigation.

Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated the miniseries for its thrilling and realistic depiction of a complex police investigation. Many viewers found Luke Evans's performance captivating and the slow-burn nature of the case compelling, although some felt the pacing could occasionally be slow.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a BAFTA Cymru Award for Best Television Series.

Fun Fact

The miniseries is based on the real-life investigation into the murders committed by John Cooper, a serial killer who operated in the Pembrokeshire area of Wales between 1985 and 2000.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
Peter McGinn

Peter McGinn

Another dramatic police detective miniseries based on a real case, with another dedicated but flawed detective and his team of investigators. This show had no trouble holding my interest with its intelligent script and competent ensemble ca...

DanDare

DanDare

Luke Evans is dogged but bland as detective Steve Wilkins who reopened two unsolved murders dating back to the 1980s. The main suspect is John Cooper already in prison for other crimes and due to be paroled soon. A fast moving drama a...