Netflix has dropped a chilling addition to its crime drama lineup with “The Loch,” a 2017 British miniseries that has quickly captured attention for its brooding atmosphere and shocking conclusion. Originally aired on ITV, this six-episode thriller has been dubbed a haunting blend of “The Fall” and “Broadchurch,” thanks to its unsettling tone and small-town intrigue. Featuring Siobhan Finneran, a standout from “Happy Valley,” the series follows a detective’s desperate hunt for a serial killer in the misty Scottish Highlands. As of its July 26, 2025, release on Netflix, “The Loch” has viewers reeling from its dark narrative and a twist ending that promises to leave an indelible mark. Let’s explore the gripping plot and the talented cast that bring this unsettling tale to life.
The Intricate Plot: A Murder Mystery with a Shocking Turn
“The Loch” unfolds in the serene yet deceptive village of Lochnafoy, where the discovery of piano teacher Niall Swift’s body at the base of Carn Mohr Mountain shatters the peace. Local detective Annie Redford, facing her first murder case, teams up with the no-nonsense DCI Lauren Quigley to unravel the crime, which soon escalates into a hunt for a serial killer. The investigation reveals a grisly detail: part of Swift’s brain was surgically removed while he was alive, and a human heart washes ashore, hinting at a methodical predator. As the tight-knit community comes under scrutiny, suspicion falls on various residents, from tour operator Leighton Thomas to Annie’s own husband, Alan, amplifying the tension.
The plot thickens with a village meeting meant to flush out the killer, a pursuit of a suspect named Jonjo, and a personal stake when Annie’s daughter Evie becomes a target. The series builds a web of secrets—infidelity, hidden pasts, and psychological manipulation—culminating in a dark twist: the killer remains at large, leaving the town and viewers with an unresolved sense of dread. This open-ended conclusion, paired with the stunning Highland backdrop, draws comparisons to “Broadchurch” for its community focus and “The Fall” for its psychological depth, though some find the pacing uneven. The narrative explores themes of trust, trauma, and the lurking monsters within idyllic settings, making it a compulsive watch that lingers long after the final frame.
Stellar Cast: A Blend of British Talent Anchors the Darkness
Leading the ensemble is Laura Fraser as DS Annie Redford, a determined yet overwhelmed local detective thrust into the spotlight. Known for her roles in “The Missing” and “Breaking Bad,” Fraser brings a relatable vulnerability to Annie, balancing professional resolve with personal turmoil as a mother and wife. Her performance anchors the series, grounding the escalating chaos in human emotion.
Siobhan Finneran, celebrated for her commanding turn as Catherine Cawood in “Happy Valley,” shines as DCI Lauren Quigley, the seasoned Glasgow detective brought in to lead the case. Finneran’s intensity and gravitas elevate the procedural elements, her no-nonsense demeanor contrasting with Annie’s inexperience to create a dynamic partnership. Her presence has been a key draw, with fans praising her ability to carry a “stunning” thriller.
Don Gilet adds depth as Blake Albrighton, the psychological profiler whose insights drive the investigation’s cerebral side. Recognizable from “Death in Paradise,” Gilet’s portrayal offers a thoughtful counterpoint to the more instinctual approaches of his colleagues. The supporting cast, including John Sessions as DCI Frank Smilie, Gray O’Brien as Alan Redford, and William Ash as Leighton Thomas, enriches the ensemble with nuanced performances. Younger actors like Shona McHugh (Evie Redford), Murray Fraser, Jack Bannon, Alastair Mackenzie, and Conor McCarry bring the next generation’s perspective, their interactions adding layers to the community’s unraveling.
The chemistry among the leads, particularly Finneran and Fraser, has been hailed as a highlight, turning “The Loch” into a character-driven drama as much as a crime puzzle. This talented lineup ensures the series’ emotional weight matches its dark twists, making it a standout addition to Netflix’s thriller roster.
In conclusion, “The Loch” delivers a gripping murder mystery that fuses the atmospheric tension of “Broadchurch” with the psychological edge of “The Fall,” capped by a twist that leaves viewers shattered. With Siobhan Finneran’s star power and a robust cast, the series offers a compelling dive into the shadows of a Scottish village, cementing its place as a must-watch for crime drama enthusiasts in 2025.
