In the Inspector Morse mold only more depressed and decidedly less dynamic, Inspector Wallander (Kenneth Branagh) has made his slow and pensive way through some slow and depressive plot entanglements during the four seasons of this “Masterpiece Mystery!” series without losing a scintilla of his power to fascinate. This season, the fourth, is no exception.

That the series is still a more satisfying televised mystery than average has a lot to do with its consistently high production values and the original decision to film it in the locations where the books are set. ... The other reason, of course, is Mr. Branagh.

The tonal opposite of the usual cozy Masterpiece, Wallander leaves you pondering life's mysteries. [9-22 May 2016, p.19]