Netflix’s latest crime drama, Dept. Q, delivers an intense and thrilling experience with its dynamic ensemble cast and complex cold cases, making it an excellent choice for those searching for the Best shows like Gary Oldman’s Slow Horses. Premiering recently and quickly garnering positive reviews, the show has rapidly become a favorite among viewers who appreciate atmospheric detective stories set in vivid locations like Edinburgh.
Dept. Q: A Fresh Take on the Crime Thriller Genre
Dept. Q, co-created by Scott Frank and adapted from Jussi Adler-Olsen’s novel series, made its debut on Netflix on May 29, 2025. The show centers on Carl Morck, played by Matthew Goode, a detective who leads a newly established department focused on solving Edinburgh’s cold cases. With a bold yet compelling approach, the series draws viewers into a world filled with long-forgotten crimes and enigmatic mysteries.
After its premiere, Dept. Q swiftly earned acclaim from critics, boasting an 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While the show is not without its imperfections, this impressive score highlights its strong storytelling, character development, and engaging narrative style. As a result, the crime thriller has gained momentum with fans who enjoy intricate plots similar to those found in Gary Oldman’s acclaimed Apple TV+ series, Slow Horses.
Why Dept. Q Appeals to Slow Horses Fans
Dept. Q and Slow Horses share several thematic elements and storytelling techniques that make them appealing to the same audience. Both shows are anchored in the premise of a specialized detective unit tackling unconventional or discarded cases. For Dept. Q, this means diving into cold cases in Edinburgh, while Slow Horses, which stars Gary Oldman and adapts Mick Herron’s Slough House novels, explores a team of British intelligence agents outcast from mainstream operations.
The charm of both series is rooted in a talented ensemble cast, with Dept. Q featuring a diverse group of multifaceted characters led by Matthew Goode’s Carl Morck. The characters’ relationships and development are crucial to the viewer’s engagement, providing layers of drama and emotion that go beyond standard crime-solving.
Atmosphere and setting play a pivotal role in distinguishing both shows from other series within the genre. Edinburgh’s moody landscapes in Dept. Q complement the tension and complexity of its cases, offering a visual style as compelling as the narrative. This mirrors the gritty, offbeat environment of Slough House in Slow Horses. Fans awaiting the next installment of Oldman’s series can appreciate how Dept. Q fills the void with its brooding tone and unpredictable mysteries.
Dept. Q’s Strong Reception and Future Possibilities
The nine-episode first season of Dept. Q marks a solid entry into the crowded crime-thriller landscape. Viewers and critics alike are drawn to the show’s clever plotting, nuanced performances, and emotional undertones. The enthusiastic response from both audiences and cast members hints at the show’s potential longevity and expansion.
As Dept. Q is adapted from a ten-book series written by Jussi Adler-Olsen, there is a deep reservoir of stories available for future seasons. Actor Alexej Manvelov, who portrays Akram Salim, has spoken about his desire to further explore his character if the show is renewed. Star Matthew Goode has also expressed enthusiasm for continuing, indicating early discussions with Scott Frank about possibilities for more action in subsequent installments.
I was saying to Scott the other day, what we really need to do is, a, season 2, and we need to get Alexej into eight weeks of Krav Magar training so the fight scenes in season 2 can be amazing.
—Matthew Goode, Lead Actor
The chance of renewal largely depends on the show’s performance on Netflix, particularly whether it can sustain a high ranking in the platform’s weekly top 10. The outcome remains uncertain, but the show’s foundation and storytelling assets make a strong case for its return.
Gary Oldman’s Slow Horses Continues to Succeed
While Dept. Q is just starting to make waves, fans of espionage and crime drama can look forward to more Slow Horses, as Apple TV+ has renewed the Gary Oldman-led series for a sixth season, according to Variety. Not only is the show celebrated for its 98% critical score, but a fifth season is already in production, ensuring that fans of intricate detective stories will have plenty to watch in the future.
Both series underscore the enduring appeal of crime shows built around flawed heroes, complex team dynamics, and a blend of suspense, wit, and emotional resonance. The popularity of Dept. Q and Slow Horses shows there is still significant demand for well-crafted stories that offer more than typical procedural fare.
What’s Next for Crime Drama Enthusiasts?
As anticipation builds for more episodes of Slow Horses, fans are encouraged to dive into Dept. Q’s thrilling first season on Netflix. The streaming landscape in the USA now allows viewers to enjoy the unique atmospheres of both Edinburgh and Slough House, following characters such as Carl Morck and the eclectic teams they lead. Department Q delivers a compelling watch for anyone searching for the Best shows like Gary Oldman’s Slow Horses while also standing on its own with fresh intrigue and engaging performances.
With the combined power of strong source material, talented creators like Scott Frank, and a cast invested in deeper character arcs, Dept. Q is poised to become a staple for genre fans and new viewers alike. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Gary Oldman’s slow-burn thrillers or are just exploring what top crime dramas have to offer, Dept. Q offers a binge-worthy experience not to be missed.
Dept. Q is available to stream now on Netflix. Slow Horses can be found on Apple TV+.
