Is Netflix's New British Crime Drama the Gripping True Story You've Been Waiting For?

The recent mini-series "Des," featuring David Tennant as the infamous serial killer Dennis Nilsen, has garnered significant attention and acclaim. Viewers have praised Tennant's chilling portrayal, as well as the show's unique approach that avoids graphic violence while still delivering a compelling narrative about Nilsen's heinous crimes.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The release of "Des" on Netflix has sparked renewed interest in the chilling story of Dennis Nilsen, who, between 1978 and 1983, murdered a number of young men in London. As audiences engage with the series, discussions around the portrayal of true crime and the complexities of Nilsen's character have emerged. Critics highlight the series' focus on the psychological aspects of the crimes rather than sensationalising the murders themselves.

Key takeaways

David Tennant's portrayal of Dennis Nilsen has been met with widespread acclaim.
The series avoids graphic depictions of violence, emphasising psychological horror instead.
It explores the impact of the crimes on victims’ families and the detective’s quest for closure.

Timeline: how we got here

The story of Dennis Nilsen is both tragic and complex. Here’s a brief timeline highlighting key events:

1978-1983: Nilsen murders boys and young men in London.
9 February 1983: Nilsen is arrested after police discover human remains.
4 November 1983: He is sentenced to life imprisonment, convicted of six counts of murder.
12 May 2018: Nilsen dies in custody at the age of 72.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The series has reignited discussions around the ethics of portraying true crime stories and how they should be handled in media. Critics and viewers alike have commented on the fine balance between entertainment and respect for victims and their families.

What was already established

Prior to the release of "Des," Nilsen was well-known as one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers, having been convicted for multiple murders. The narrative surrounding his crimes has long been a topic of interest both in academic and media circles.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The show offers an unsettling but significant reflection on societal attitudes towards crime and justice. Viewers are engaging in deeper conversations about the implications of true crime narratives and their impact on public perception.

Businesses and jobs

In the entertainment sector, the success of "Des" highlights a growing demand for true crime series, which may influence future production decisions and attract investments in similar projects.

Policy and regulation

The portrayal of true crime stories in media continues to be a subject of debate, prompting discussions about the need for regulations to ensure sensitivity towards victims' families and the potential psychological impact on viewers.

Numbers that matter

15: Estimated number of victims murdered by Nilsen.
5: Years during which the murders took place.
1: Life sentences handed down to Nilsen, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

Definitions and jargon buster

True Crime: A genre of media that examines real criminal cases, often focusing on the details of the crimes and the offenders.
Serial Killer: A person who commits a series of two or more murders, typically with a psychological motive.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As more viewers tune in to "Des," expect continued discussions on social media and in forums regarding the ethical implications of true crime storytelling.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor industry responses to the success of "Des," which could lead to a rise in similar productions, as well as potential changes in how such stories are told.

Signals to watch

Viewership statistics and audience feedback on platforms like Netflix.
Industry responses and adaptations from production companies regarding future true crime projects.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage critically with true crime narratives, considering the impact on victims’ families.
Discuss the themes and societal issues presented in such series with peers.

Don’t

Avoid sensationalising the crimes; focus on the human stories behind them.
Don’t ignore the ethical considerations when discussing or consuming true crime content.

Checklist

Have you watched "Des" yet? Consider its portrayal of Nilsen and the impact of his actions.
Think about how media representations of crime affect public perception and policy.
Reflect on the balance between storytelling and respect for victims and their families.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While "Des" has been praised for its approach, it also raises questions about the potential for desensitisation to violence in society. The series may evoke strong reactions, and viewers should be mindful of their emotional responses and the broader implications of the narrative. Discussions surrounding the glorification of criminals and the potential impact on societal attitudes towards crime remain ongoing.

Bottom line

"Des" presents a powerful and chilling narrative that invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of crime and its impact on society. As discussions continue, the series stands as a significant contribution to the true crime genre, prompting audiences to consider the ethical dimensions of storytelling.

FAQs

What is "Des" about?

"Des" is a mini-series that delves into the life of Dennis Nilsen, a notorious British serial killer, focusing on his crimes and the investigation that led to his capture.

Who stars in "Des"?

David Tennant stars as Dennis Nilsen, with Daniel Mays portraying Peter Jay, the detective investigating the murders.

Is "Des" suitable for all audiences?

The series is rated for mature audiences due to its themes and subject matter, but it does not depict graphic violence.