Traces

Traces is a gripping crime drama series that first aired in 2019 on Amazon Addon. Produced in the UK, this show has left audiences on the edge of their seats. The series represents a unique blend of conventional crime genre elements with a refreshing take on character development and pace.

The narrative unfolds in the Scottish city of Dundee, predominantly set against the backdrop of the Scottish Institute of Forensic Science. The show introduces viewers to Emma Hedges, a young woman who returns to Dundee for her new job as a lab assistant, but upon her arrival, she unwillingly becomes involved in a layered mystery that is closely tied to her own past.

From the get-go, Traces draws in its audience with a sense of urgency and intrigue. The central plot revolves around Emma’s pursuit for the truth about her mother’s untimely and unexplained demise when she was a child - a truth which has remained buried for far too long. To her surprise, a fictitious case study at her workplace draws uncanny parallels to her mother's murder, which forces Emma to delve deep into the case. As she uncovers more incriminating traces and details inching her closer to the truth, it becomes clear she is not alone in her pursuit.

Alongside Molly Windsor's stellar performance as young Emma Hedges, the series boasts a robust ensemble cast which includes Laura Fraser as Professor Sarah Gordon and Jennifer Spence as Prof. Kathy Torrance, Emma’s mentors at the Institute. The rest of the ensemble boasts of esteemed actors such as Martin Compston, Laurie Brett, and Michael Nardone. Each actor brilliantly portrays the characters' hurdles, ambitions, and struggles, thus bringing a powerful depth to the series.

Also, Traces stands out as a crime drama in its approach towards the exploration of forensic science and its utilization as a narrative device. The creators took special care to portray realistic and accurate scientific processes, making the pursuit of truth even more engaging for the audience. It embeds forensic science not just in the unraveling of the mystery, but also within the character's developmental arcs. This adds an additional layer of intrigue to the story, as it successfully integrates elements of science into the mainstream narrative thread.

However, not everything in the series is about forensics and crime. Woven into its intense crime-solving escapades are complex and relatable human relationships which are beautifully explored throughout the series. Themes of love, betrayal, friendship, and familial bonds are depicted alongside the main crime plot, adding richness and emotional depth to the story. The characters’ personal lives intertwine with their professional pursuits, this layering of plots and emotions gives viewers multiple threads to invest in.

The atmospheric storytelling is complimented superbly by the cinematography, capturing the contrasting vibes of Dundee - its thriving cityscapes and eerie abandoned spots which serve as important piece in the narrative puzzle. Background scores often set a chilling tone, juxtaposing against the relentless quest for truth that lies at the heart of the series.

Showrunner Amelia Bullmore, based on an original idea by best-selling crime writer Val McDermid, beautifully crafts the complex and invigorating script. The creators successfully render not just a thrilling crime-drama, but also a compelling character study that explores the nature of human relationships, resilience, and redemption.

In essence, Traces succeeds in marrying the best elements of a whodunnit murder mystery with a poignant human drama. This tightly paced crime series adapts conventional genre trappings into an insightful narrative driven by strong performances and a compelling central mystery. It portrays individual pain and determination while exploring the application of forensic science in crime solving, offering an immersive experience for viewers.

While the series might keep you on the edge of your seat due to its thrilling nature, it also delves deep into the human psyche, offering a glimpse into how people confront their pasts, deal with trauma, and seek justice, no matter how late. Whether you are a fan of crime-drama or character-driven narratives, Traces offers a thrilling experience that will keep viewers hooked from the first episode to the last.