Netflix's Department Q fans must watch 'mind-blowing' series from 12 years ago that inspired it

Devotees of Department Q who have already binged this gripping new thriller should make a beeline for Prime Video for more.

Matthew Goode stars as the brilliant but self-absorbed detective Carl Morck, tasked with cracking cold cases in a grimy basement office to boost the reputation of the Edinburgh police department.

Meanwhile, his colleagues upstairs grapple with a seemingly random shooting that resulted in the death of a new officer and left Carl's partner paralysed.

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The inaugural nine-part season has garnered glowing reviews from Netflix subscribers since its release at the end of May this year.

However, viewers who haven't scrutinised the credits might be taken aback to discover that the thriller isn't entirely original, reports .

In fact, it draws inspiration from a series of 10 Danish Nordic crime novels known as Afdeling Q penned by author Jussi Adler-Olsen.

These were subsequently transformed into an ongoing film series, kicking off in 2013 with four more instalments yet to be released.

Fans of the Scottish adaptation by Scott Frank and Chandni Lakhani can celebrate, as the first three entries in the original series, The Keeper of Lost Causes, The Absent One and A Conspiracy of Faith, are currently available to stream on Viaplay UK via Amazon Prime.

If you're still on the fence, take a look at some rave reviews of the first film which thriller enthusiasts insist is well worth a watch.

A reviewer couldn't hold back their enthusiasm, declaring: "Please watch this series. It is mind-blowing to see how much engaging the story is. Definitely a better one. I'll give it 9/10."

Echoing the praise, another fan gushed: "One of the most suspenseful movies I have seen recently. The characters are flawless, real and gutsy."

A further review emphasised the movie's power to captivate, saying: "The concept of the movie is gripping and keeps you glued until the very end of the movie. Danish suspense/murder mystery movies must get more traction worldwide.

"This was one of those movies which has almost all elements, stellar acting, magnificent story, excellent editing, great screenplay and direction."

Rounding off the glowing testimonials, a final viewer extolled: "One of the best crime thrillers ever made. You'll never be disappointed watching this."

While Netflix remains tight-lipped about a sequel to Department Q, fans are encouraged not to miss out on what could be the ultimate binge-worthy experience.

Department Q is available to stream on Netflix. Watch the original Department Q films on Viaplay via Amazon Prime.