It's fun, it's light, [but] it has a hard time when its tries to get heavy.

Instead, you get a movie that's enjoyable enough, but leaves you feeling like it could have been much, much more.

The plot isn't so bad, but the pace of storytelling is too slow which makes people bored. Certain moments are so obvious and unnecessary for the main plot. I would've fast-forwarded those moments if it was an online streaming. The ending looks like implying a sequel, not sure if this movie will get one

Ok... Let's be honest. It cannot be the best movie but is quite enjoyable. The movie has the potential to develop a great plot for future movies

As an admirer of various thrilling series, Denmark is definitely one of the countries which related production I follow as much as possible. So I was glad again when I heard about Gidseltagningen - and again, I can say I am contented.True, it is no Bron/Broen, but its realistic plot (suitable for modern world with its hostage dramas), depiction of decision-making in a democratic country (when comprehensiveness brings about tardiness in harsh situations), not strained characters and performances (particularly supporting ones, e.g. Paprika Steen, Alba August, Dar Salim) make this series interesting to watch. Well, the real reasons behind could have been different, more sophisticated, but then it could have diminished its plausibility perhaps. We have to bear in mind that Gidseltagningen is no American or Asian series, after all, and anti-war mentality and topical mood were so maintained. All in all, 8 strong points from me, and you are welcome to watch, unless you dislike strong military presence and prefer works with good and bad distinctively marked.

It's pretty obvious from the outset that Philip is hiding something about his past and, boy, do they milk it! I also thought it a great shame that Louise wasn't given more to do. Sadly, her character was rather sidelined and her main purpose seemed to be throwing concerned looks in Philip's direction on a regular basis. As Louise was clearly the smartest person in the room, it is depressing that she was marginalised into the role of female love interest - how uninspired.And, of course, the female reporter was so dim that she jumped into bed with one of the 'relatives' who was quite clearly working for the hostage takers as their fourth man on the outside.Finally, it is revealed how Mark (Alpha) and Philip are connected. However, unless I missed something, it remains unclear how Bravo and Charlie fit into the picture. Who are they? How and why were they recruited by Alpha? What did they hope to get out of taking hostages when the ransom was purely intended to get Jim released? They certainly did not seem to be the altruistic types! At least we found out Sammy's role at the end.On the plus side, I thought the detective duo of SP and Simon had great potential and I also thought Jakob Oftebro did a great job as Mark (Alpha). The actors portraying the hostages were also believable, even if some had rather cliché back stories.The Bridge and The Killing have set the bar extremely high. Below the Surface is not in their league, but it is not terrible either.

Watched it on BBC iPlayer, saw the whole season in two days. Love Danish tv shows but this is an exception, full of curiosity & compassion! Well done to all the actors.

First up, I've watched the entire series, so I'm not reviewing something I've only half-seen. This is a great slow burn Scandi-drama that ratchets up the tension, occasionally explodes, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The plot centres around the intriguing premise of police facing a seemingly impossible-to-solve hostage situation. Good character development throughout, even for minor characters, that explore motivations and the frailties of the human condition. The cinematography is more akin to a big budget blockbuster than a TV series, looks really great. In some ways, this series reminds me of Spooks during the latter part of the Adam Carter era. Binge-watched in two sittings. Great stuff.