For viewers captivated by gripping true crime narratives like Borgen and The Killing, a latest six-episode Danish mini-series is now available for free streaming. The Affair of Kim Wall, currently streaming on Arte.tv, delves into the disturbing investigation surrounding the disappearance and murder of Swedish journalist Kim Wall. The series is drawing attention for its compelling storytelling and the presence of a familiar face to Game of Thrones fans.
Like other streaming platforms such as Netflix, Arte.tv is bolstering its content library with a range of new series. Recent additions include the mini-series Patrick Melrose starring Benedict Cumberbatch, as well as nostalgic favorites like Twin Peaks and Stargate SG-1. The platform also recently offered the British comedy Lovesick, starring Johnny Flynn. However, The Affair of Kim Wall represents a significant shift in tone, offering a stark and unsettling true crime drama.
The series focuses on the investigation led by Jens Møller Jensen, head of the Copenhagen criminal investigation department, portrayed by Pilou Asbæk, known for his role as Euron Greyjoy in Game of Thrones. The investigation centers on the disappearance of Kim Wall after she embarked on a journey aboard the privately-owned submarine UC3 Nautilus with its inventor, Peter Madsen. The case quickly took a dark turn when Wall was reported missing on August 11, 2017, after the submarine trip on August 10, 2017.
The investigation quickly revealed a horrific truth. A body, later identified as Kim Wall through DNA testing, was discovered by a cyclist. Further searches led to the recovery of her head and legs in bags found in Køge Bay, near Copenhagen, two months later. The details of the case are as disturbing as they are tragic.
Prosecutors alleged that Wall was subjected to a violent sexual assault aboard Madsen’s submarine before being killed. Reports indicate she was stabbed 15 times, with 14 of those wounds concentrated in her lower abdomen and genital area. Initially denying involvement, Peter Madsen eventually confessed to dismembering Wall’s body. In April 2018, Madsen was sentenced to life in prison for the murder and dismemberment of Kim Wall, as well as for the attempted aggravated sexual assault, Variety reports.
A Chilling Investigation Unfolds on Screen
The Affair of Kim Wall meticulously reconstructs the investigation, offering a chilling glimpse into the events surrounding Wall’s death and the subsequent pursuit of justice. The series is available for free on Arte.tv until January 15, 2027, providing ample time for true crime enthusiasts to delve into this harrowing case. The series promises a detailed and unsettling exploration of the investigation, mirroring the intensity of other popular Scandinavian noir dramas.
The case garnered international attention, prompting widespread discussion about the dangers faced by journalists and the complexities of investigating crimes at sea. Kim Wall, a freelance journalist who contributed to publications like The Guardian and The New York Times, was known for her investigative reporting and her interest in unconventional stories. Her death sparked outrage and a demand for accountability.
Pilou Asbæk’s portrayal of Jens Møller Jensen is expected to be a key draw for viewers familiar with his work on Game of Thrones. However, the series aims to focus primarily on the facts of the case and the dedication of the investigators involved, rather than sensationalizing the crime itself.
As audiences continue to seek out compelling true crime content, The Affair of Kim Wall offers a disturbing and thought-provoking exploration of a case that shocked the world. The series serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of pursuing truth and justice.
What comes next for the case remains focused on remembrance and continued advocacy for journalistic safety. The series’ availability on Arte.tv provides a platform for continued discussion and reflection on this tragic event. Share your thoughts on this gripping series and the importance of true crime storytelling in the comments below.
