Vigil
2021
Original language: English
- drama
- crime
The story
The mysterious disappearance of a Scottish fishing trawler and a death on-board the submarine HMS Vigil bring the police into conflict with the Navy and British security services. DCI Amy Silva and DS Kirsten Longacre lead an investigation on land and at sea into a conspiracy that goes to the very heart of Britain’s national security.
What it’s like
Dim, rain-slicked Scottish harbours, grey North Sea light, and the cramped, sodium-lit interiors of a submarine, all shot in a cool, desaturated palette with tight handheld framing in the police scenes and clinical, symmetrical composition aboard the boat. The score leans on low synth drones and tense strings that swell at the edges of each reveal, while the dialogue is clipped and procedural. Its vibe is brooding and suspicious, with a streak of dry, unexpected humour that undercuts the grimness. It suits a wet weeknight binge with the lights off, when you want a conspiracy to unfold steadily over several episodes. The pace is methodical, building through interviews, leaked files and quiet confrontations rather than action set pieces. Its emotional register sits between bleak and wry, following two investigators who clash with institutions and gradually earn each other's trust. Violence is present, including a suspicious death and some murder, but it is mostly off-screen or brief rather than gory, with tension doing most of the work. It is for viewers who enjoy political thrillers, sea-bound mysteries and a leading pair of tough, principled women.
More TV shows like Vigil
Closest in mood, pacing and theme. Tell us why you loved Vigiland we’ll explain which ones fit you.
