'Intense' six-part period drama based on bestselling novel is must watch for Nordic crime fans

An 'intense' six-part period drama based on a bestselling novel is set to be a must watch for Nordic crime fans.

Disney have released the first look at a new limited series set to land on the streaming platform next month. It has been described as a character-driven crime drama that blends majestic landscapes, complex relationships and deep mystery. It will be available to stream exclusively on Disney+ from October 15.

The series which will consist of six episodes is based on bestselling author Mikael Niemis’ book by the same name. It is said to feature a star-studded cast including Gustaf Skarsgård (Vikings, Oppenheimer), Ane Dahl Torp (The Wave, Charter), Magnus Krepper (Queen of Hearts, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest).

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There's also Jonas Karlsson (A Piece of My Heart, Jönssonligan kommer tillbaka), Tyra Wingren (The Noy Next Door), Simon J. Berger (Exit, End of Summer), Emil Kárlsen (Let the river Flow), Johan Widerberg (The Wife, A Man Called Ove) and Pernilla August ( Star Wars : The Phantom Menace).

According to the show's synopsis, the series is set in Northern Sweden, 1852. A new pastor (Gustaf Skarsgård) and his family arrive in the isolated village of Kengis.

With a strong belief in justice and change, he challenges the local elite but faces resistance as his fiery sermons ignite hope for a better life among the poor farmers. At the same time, the village is shaken by disappearances and frightening rumours of bear attacks.

When the pastor and his foster son, Jussi, lead the search, they make a horrific discovery that creates deep rifts in the village’s fragile community. The pastor is drawn into a dangerous battle, where forbidden love, power struggles, and brutal acts push the village toward a violent reckoning where no one is safe. What are the villagers willing to do to protect themselves, and where does the line between justice and vengeance lie?

Judging from the first look in images and trailer released by Disney, To Cook A Bear is set to be a must watch for crime and Nordic drama fans alike.

Star of the series Gustaf Skarsgård, has explained how the setting and filming locations of the project were chosen specifically to add to the themes of the upcoming release. He said: “ The end of the 1800s were a very interesting time in the northern parts of the Nordics and it´s been a privilege to bring Mikael Niemis’ great thriller to the screen.

"We shot To Cook a Bear in over 40 different locations in Finland and the northern parts of Sweden, using the stunning Nordic landscape to deepen the drama and show both the beauty and brutality in the wilderness. It is a dark and intense story about social exclusion, truth, and humanity with an amazing Nordic cast.”

Vibeke Lia, Director Programming & Production, The Walt Disney Company Nordic & Baltic added: “This visually striking crime drama is a testament to the richness of our stories, the talent of our region, and the global appeal of Nordic storytelling.

"The story is unparalleled with its deep character portraits and unexpected turns. We can't wait for audiences around the world to experience this grim tale of violence and redemption that we've created together with the talented team behind and in front of the camera”.

To Cook A Bear is streaming on Disney+ from October 15.