In recent years, Finnish television has steadily captured international attention, carving out a unique niche amidst the Nordic storytelling landscape. While countries like Denmark and Sweden are often associated with the “Nordic noir” phenomenon, Finland has cultivated its own voice. Finnish series typically unfold at a contemplative pace, emphasizing atmosphere, moral dilemmas, and protagonists that are both flawed and competent. Dialogue tends to be minimalist, with silence often speaking volumes.
This guide showcases five Finnish series that are not only critically acclaimed but also easily accessible, reflecting various facets of the country’s television culture. Each entry provides insights into the show’s strengths, its target audience, and what viewers can anticipate.
1. Bordertown (Sorjonen)
Genre: Crime, Nordic noir
Original run: 2016–2020
Bordertown introduces us to Detective Kari Sorjonen, who relocates his family from the bustling streets of Helsinki to the quieter town of Lappeenranta, near the Russian border, in search of a more tranquil life. However, they soon find themselves embroiled in intricate homicide investigations that frequently intersect with cross-border crime.
What Sets It Apart
- A compelling central character who employs unconventional investigative methods.
- A moody backdrop of eastern Finland, rarely depicted in international media.
- Cases that weave personal struggles with broader geopolitical tensions.
The series masterfully intertwines procedural elements with psychological depth. Sorjonen isn’t your typical flamboyant detective; he’s analytical, socially awkward, and relentless in pursuit of truth. Rather than resorting to melodrama, the show thrives on atmosphere and moral complexity.
Best for: Those who appreciate slow-burning crime narratives that resemble Scandinavian noir but prefer a more introspective feel.
2. Deadwind (Carp)
Genre: Crime thriller
Original run: 2018–2021
Deadwind revolves around Sofia Karppi, a Homicide Detective in Helsinki, who returns to the force shortly after the death of her husband. Her partner, though inexperienced, proves to be resourceful as they delve into investigations that reveal corruption and hidden networks within Finnish society.
Why It’s Binge-Worthy
- Quicker pacing compared to many other Nordic noir offerings.
- The vibrant urban landscape of Helsinki plays a significant role.
- Clear season-long arcs filled with intricate conspiracies.
The series addresses grief with subtlety; Karppi’s emotions remain largely unspoken, manifesting instead in her choices and threshold for risk. The unfolding cases span multiple episodes, encouraging viewers to keep watching.
Best for: Audiences seeking a crime series with a robust momentum and layered conspiratorial elements rather than simple episodic plots.
3. Arctic Circle (Ivalo)
Genre: Crime, thriller
Original run: 2018–present
Arctic Circle transports viewers to the stark beauty of Finnish Lapland, where a police officer stumbles upon a critically ill woman in a secluded cabin. What begins as a seemingly straightforward case spirals into an international criminal investigation involving a deadly virus and cross-border intrigue.
Why the Setting Matters
- The remote Arctic landscapes significantly shape the narrative.
- Unforgiving weather conditions inject a constant sense of tension.
- Isolation and limited resources play pivotal roles in the plot.
Unlike urban-focused crime dramas, this series utilizes geography as a narrative device. Responses take time, and immediate backup is often a luxury. It interlaces public health concerns with geopolitical themes without becoming overly technical.
Best for: Viewers who enjoy crime dramas with elements of survival, set against breathtaking northern vistas.
4. Shadow Lines (Fist)
Genre: Historical thriller
Original run: 2019–2022
Shadow Lines shifts the narrative from contemporary crime to the historical, set in 1950s Helsinki during the Cold War. A secret Finnish Intelligence unit navigates the delicate balance of maintaining neutrality under pressure from both East and West.
What Distinguishes It
- Explores the political tensions of post-war Finland.
- Meticulously recreates the atmosphere of 1950s Helsinki.
- Presents a spy drama devoid of exaggerated action sequences.
This series spotlights a period often overlooked by international audiences. Finland’s geographic and political positioning requires a constant dance around larger powers, and this palpable tension pervades the storyline, unfolding through negotiation, surveillance, and personal allegiances.
Best for: Anyone intrigued by European Cold War history and nuanced espionage storytelling.
5. Invisible Heroes
Genre: Historical drama
Original run: 2019
Invisible Heroes is rooted in true events, chronicling the efforts of Finnish diplomats stationed in Chile during the tumultuous 1973 military coup. As they navigate dangerous waters, they risk their careers to assist Chilean citizens seeking refuge.
Why It Expands Finnish TV Identity
- Set outside Finland, offering an international perspective.
- Grounded in real historical events.
- Moral conflict is at the heart, rather than crime-driven suspense.
This series illustrates that Finnish productions extend beyond domestic crime stories, delving into themes of humanitarian responsibility and ethical dilemmas in the face of authoritarianism.
Best for: Viewers who favor dramas grounded in real historical contexts and political intrigue.
What Defines Finnish Television Storytelling?
Across various genres, certain patterns emerge in Finnish television:
- Minimalist dialogue: Characters communicate less, with silence adding narrative depth.
- Visual atmosphere: Elements like weather and architecture play crucial roles in setting the mood.
- Flawed but capable protagonists: Leads are skilled yet emotionally complex.
- Deliberate pacing: Stories unfold gradually rather than relying on relentless twists.
This narrative style may feel slow to viewers accustomed to the fast-paced nature of American dramas, yet it invites a deeper immersion into character psychology and surroundings.
Are Finnish Series Only Crime-Focused?
While crime remains Finland’s most prominent export—resonating well internationally and fitting neatly into the broader Nordic noir brand—Finnish production has diversified into:
- Historical drama
- Political thrillers
- Dark comedies
- Character-driven relationship narratives
With the rise of international streaming platforms, accessibility has increased, and production quality has continued to improve over the past decade, complete with standard subtitle offerings.
Which Finnish Series Should You Start With?
- For a quintessential Nordic noir experience, begin with Bordertown.
- If you prefer a faster pace and urban drama, dive into Deadwind.
- For breathtaking landscapes and survival elements, try Arctic Circle.
- For Cold War intrigue, choose Shadow Lines.
- If you’re after a true story with a global perspective, watch Invisible Heroes.
Each series encapsulates a different aspect of Finnish storytelling, revealing a television industry that has matured beyond its niche status. Although Finland is a small country, its shows clearly convey a distinctive narrative identity, strong production values, and an expanding international presence.
For viewers eager to explore beyond standard Scandinavian recommendations, Finnish television presents a unique atmosphere—one marked by quiet intensity, moral complexity, and landscapes that profoundly influence every decision made on-screen.