🪶 Story & Synopsis
Bordertown TV Show Synopsis:
Genre: Crime drama, Nordic noir
Created by: Miikko Oikkonen
Directed by: Miikko Oikkonen, Jyri Kähönen, Juuso Syrjä, Marko Mäkilaakso, Jussi Hiltunen
Starring: Ville Virtanen, Matleena Kuusniemi, Anu Sinisalo
Country of origin: Finland
Original language: Finnish
No. of seasons: 3
No. of episodes: 31
Running time: 58 minutes
Production companies: Fisher King Production, Federation Entertainment
Original release: October 16, 2016 – December 1, 2019
In the acclaimed Finnish crime drama series “Bordertown,” viewers are introduced to Kari Sorjonen, a brilliant and methodical detective from the capital city of Finland, who decides to relocate to the seemingly tranquil town of Lappeenranta near the Russian border to prioritize his family life. However, Sorjonen soon discovers that the bordertown is not as peaceful as it appears on the surface.
As Sorjonen settles into his new role leading the Serious Crime Unit in Lappeenranta, he is confronted with a series of complex and chilling cases that challenge his investigative skills and personal boundaries. The show delves into the intricate web of crimes that plague the town, showcasing Sorjonen’s unique investigative techniques and his unwavering commitment to seeking justice.
Throughout the three gripping seasons of “Bordertown,” viewers are taken on a thrilling journey as Sorjonen navigates through a myriad of murders, disappearances, and dark secrets that lurk beneath the town’s idyllic facade. The series masterfully blends elements of crime drama and Nordic noir, creating a tense and atmospheric narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
One of the standout aspects of the show is the portrayal of Kari Sorjonen as a high-functioning autistic detective with traits reminiscent of savantism. Drawing inspiration from renowned figures like British writer Daniel Tammet and the iconic Sherlock Holmes, Sorjonen’s character adds a unique and compelling dimension to the series, offering a fresh perspective on the traditional crime genre.
As Sorjonen delves deeper into the dark underbelly of Lappeenranta, he must grapple with personal challenges and moral dilemmas that test his resolve and integrity. The intricate character dynamics and nuanced relationships portrayed in the show add depth and emotional resonance to the intense procedural drama unfolding on screen.
With its riveting storytelling, complex characters, and atmospheric setting, “Bordertown” captivates audiences with its blend of mystery, suspense, and psychological depth. The series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, solidifying its status as a standout entry in the Nordic noir genre.
As viewers immerse themselves in the world of “Bordertown,” they are drawn into a labyrinth of intrigue, deception, and moral ambiguity, where the line between right and wrong is often blurred. With each season building upon the last, the show delivers a compelling narrative that keeps audiences guessing until the final chilling revelation.
Through its expertly crafted storytelling, compelling performances, and haunting cinematography, “Bordertown” stands as a testament to the power of Nordic crime drama and solidifies its place as a must-watch series for fans of the genre.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Ville Virtanen, Matleena Kuusniemi, Anu Sinisalo, Lenita Susi, Kristiina Halttu, Olivia Ainali, Ilkka Villi, Max Bremer, Matti Laine, Jasmin Hamid
Movie Casting:
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Ville Virtanen | Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen |
| Matleena Kuusniemi | Pauliina Sorjonen |
| Anu Sinisalo | Detective Constable Lena Jaakkola |
| Lenita Susi | Not specified |
| Kristiina Halttu | Not specified |
| Olivia Ainali | Janina Sorjonen |
| Ilkka Villi | Not specified |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Welcome to the quirky world of “Bordertown” TV Show, where crime-solving meets family drama in a Finnish setting that’s more mysterious than a locked room case! Imagine if Sherlock Holmes took up residence in a small town on the Russian border and traded his deerstalker hat for a memory palace. That’s Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen for you!
Now, let’s dive into the review of this offbeat series that has been causing quite a stir among viewers. Strap in as we dissect the good, the bad, and the downright bizarre elements of “Bordertown”!
Plot and Themes:
- The show revolves around Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen, a brilliant yet eccentric detective with a knack for solving despicable crimes while navigating the complexities of family life.
- Themes of obsession, family dynamics, and the blurred lines between good and evil are masterfully woven into the narrative.
Binge-watching Tip: Pay close attention to Sorjonen’s meticulous approach to solving crimes; it’s like watching an intricate puzzle being pieced together before your eyes!
Acting and Characters:
- Ville Virtanen delivers a stellar performance as Kari Sorjonen, bringing depth and complexity to the character.
- The supporting cast shines bright, adding layers to the storytelling with their nuanced portrayals.
Question for You: Which character from “Bordertown” do you find most intriguing and why?
Direction and Cinematography:
- The direction strikes a perfect balance between suspenseful crime-solving sequences and heartfelt moments of familial bonding.
- Cinematography captures the stark beauty of the Finnish landscape, enhancing the moody atmosphere of the show.
Binge-watching Tip: Keep an eye out for visually striking shots that mirror Sorjonen’s intricate thought process!
Production Design and Special Effects:
- The production design sets the tone for each episode, seamlessly blending gritty crime scenes with intimate family settings.
- While some may find the animation style unconventional, it adds a unique flair to the show’s aesthetic.
Hypothetical Scenario: If you were to step into Detective Sorjonen’s memory palace, what would it look like?
Editing and Pace:
- The editing keeps viewers on their toes with sharp cuts between tense moments and quieter introspective scenes.
- The pacing may feel slow at times, but it allows for deeper exploration of characters’ motivations and internal struggles.
Binge-watching Tip: Embrace the slower pace as an opportunity to unravel the layers of mystery surrounding each character!
Tone and Dialog:
- The show balances dark themes with moments of levity, creating a nuanced emotional landscape for both characters and viewers.
- Dialogues are sharp and insightful, offering glimpses into each character’s psyche with every word spoken.
Binge-watching Tip: Pay attention to subtle nuances in dialogues; they often hold key clues to unraveling complex character dynamics!
In conclusion, “Bordertown” may not be everyone’s cup of tea due to its unconventional animation style and deliberate pacing. However, if you’re willing to delve into a world where crime-solving is intertwined with family drama amidst stunning Finnish landscapes, this show might just be your next binge-worthy obsession!
“Bordertown” Rating: 7/10 – A compelling blend of crime-solving brilliance and family turmoil that will keep you guessing till the very end!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quirky detective character | Character designs are hideous |
| Suspenseful scenes | Low budget animation |
| Focus on family dynamics | Slow-paced storytelling |
| Strong lead acting | Some gory fantasy violence |
| Good, watchable, and gripping | Strong sexual innuendo |
Feedback
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Bordertown (Finnish TV series) - Wikipedia
Bordertown(Finnish:) is a Finnish crime drama and Nordic noir television series created by Miikko Oikkonen and starring Ville Virtanen as detective inspector Kari Sorjonen. The first season, which consisted of eleven episodes, premiered in Finland on 16 October 2016 on Yle TV1. Season two, containing ten episodes, premiered on 7 October 2018, and season three, containing another ten episodes, premiered in December 2019.
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Bordertown (TV Series 2016-2020) - IMDb
- Awards
- 3 wins
Browse episodesSPONSOREDSPONSORED
Did you know
- TriviaOver one million people–1/5 of Finland’s entire population–tuned in to watch Bordertown’s first episode.
Featured reviewSeason 1 – Excellent, Season 2 – Annoying Plot Lines
- Awards
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Watch Bordertown (English Subtitles) - Season 1 | Prime Video
Episodes
- S1 E1 – A Doll’s House, Part 1 (English Subtitles)Just as Kari Sorjonen is starting his new job, the body of a young woman is found in a lake.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E2 – A Doll’s House, Part 2 (English Subtitles)Clues lead Sorjonen and Lena to the dark forests of Saimaanharju.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E3 – A Doll’s House, Part 3 (English Subtitles)Sorjonen offers to help Lena find her daughter.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E4 – Dragonflies, Part 1 (English Subtitles)The police face a new threat when a drug squad officer is found dead.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E5 – Dragonflies, Part 2 (English Subtitles)Sorjonen seeks help with his latest case.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E6 – The Fury, Part 1 (English Subtitles)Sorjonen is ordered to investigate a series of dog fights in the border area.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E7 – The Fury, Part 2 (English Subtitles)Lena Jaakkola infiltrates a Lappeenranta fight club to track down the organizers.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E8 – The Lady in the Lake, Part 1 (English Subtitles)Sorjonen investigates after a woman is found in a lake.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E9 – The Lady in the Lake, Part 2 (English Subtitles)The death of a local politician opens a new lead in the case.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E10 – The End Game, Part 1 (English Subtitles)Sorjonen’s daughter is arrested for murder.Free trial of MHz Choice
- S1 E11 – The End Game, Part 2 (English Subtitles)Sorjonen desperately tries to prove his daughter’s innocence.Free trial of MHz Choice
DetailsMore info
- Content advisory
- Nudity violence substance use alcohol use smoking foul language sexual content
- Audio languages
- Suomi
- Subtitles
- None available
- Studio
- MHz Choice
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the final chapter of ‘Bordertown’ Season 3, the Finnish crime drama thriller takes a unique approach to wrapping up the story. The central character, Kari Sorjonen, played by Ville Virtanen, surprises viewers by saving the day without the typical clichéd drama or action sequences.
Throughout the season, Kari and his Special Crime Unit (SCU) team tackle five cases that are all interconnected through a common perpetrator. As they investigate the last case involving a water poisoning attack in Lappeeranta, Kari relies on his exceptional memory to piece together clues from previous cases, leading him to identify Lasse Maasalo as the mastermind behind the crimes.
Meanwhile, SCU head Niko Uusitalo attempts to secure more funding for the unit without success. Kari uncovers the involvement of the Degerman Concern in a cover-up related to a weapons factory, which ultimately caused the water poisoning. Maasalo exploits this information to blackmail key figures into taking the blame.
As Kari grapples with his inner demons and struggles to stay ahead of Maasalo, he confronts a pivotal moment where he decides to deviate from his usual approach. Instead of seeking guidance from his deceased wife’s spirit, Pauliina, who had been a source of advice for him, he confronts her criticism of his manipulative behavior towards his colleagues.
This realization prompts Kari to take a bold step to outsmart Maasalo. In a clever and quick confrontation, Kari manages to sedate Maasalo, effectively neutralizing the threat and saving the day. Following this victory, Kari begins to accept and address his psychological issues by seeking therapy and acknowledging his visions of Pauliina.
The season finale of ‘Bordertown’ delivers a subtle yet impactful conclusion, characteristic of Nordic noirs. The absence of grandiose action sequences or melodramatic moments adds depth to the storytelling, leaving room for contemplation and reflection among the audience.
By eschewing traditional crime thriller tropes, ‘Bordertown’ Season 3 offers a refreshing and introspective take on resolution and character development. The finale not only ties up the loose ends of the narrative but also leaves a sense of openness, inviting viewers to ponder the implications of Kari’s journey and the choices he makes.
For fans of the series, ‘Bordertown’ Season 3, now available for streaming on Netflix, provides a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion that showcases the complexities of the human psyche and the enduring impact of past traumas on the present.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating:
Bordertown TV Show is rated TV-14.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that Bordertown TV Show contains content that may not be suitable for children under the age of 14. The show includes themes of immigration satire, stereotypes, and anti-immigrant rhetoric. The series portrays scenes of severe abuse, intense hostage situations, and a disturbing scene where a woman decides to have sex with her kidnapper to avoid harm. These elements contribute to the TV-14 rating and indicate that the show is more appropriate for older teens and adult viewers.
Parents are advised to preview the content and consider the maturity level of their teenagers before allowing them to watch Bordertown.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Hulu | Hulu offers a free trial for new and eligible returning subscribers. Plans start at $7.99/month. |
| Netflix | Bordertown is available to watch on Netflix. The show revolves around a gifted detective who takes a job in a small town to spend more time with his family but gets involved in disturbing murder cases. |
| Amazon Prime Video | Bordertown with English subtitles can be watched on Amazon Prime Video. The series follows Kari Sorjonen, a new police chief in a Finnish border town, using his deductive skills to solve crimes. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
Bordertown is an American animated sitcom created by Mark Hentemann for the Fox Broadcasting Company.
The series follows two families living in a Southwest desert town on the United States-Mexico border.
Bordertown: The Complete Series was released on DVD on December 11, 2018 by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment all 13 episodes including 2-disc set and it has Manufactured on demand (MOD) on DVD—R, and including guest stars of Stephanie Escajeda, David Foresth, Mark Hentemann, B.J. Porter, Freddie Prinze Jr., John Viener, Zach Villa, Cesar Zamora, Max Arciniega, Chris Sheridan, Jacqueline Piñol, And Seth MacFarlane.
Bordertown is an American adult animated sitcom that aired on Fox from January 3 to May 22, 2016.
The series follows two families living in a Southwest desert town on the United States-Mexico border.
Bordertown: Created by Mark Hentemann.
Follow two families living in a Southwest desert town on the United States-Mexico border and how these two families inevitably cross and are bound by friendship and conflict.
Bordertown (TV Series 2016) - Quotes - IMDb Bordertown (TV Series 2016) - * Bud Buckwald: [repeated line, when Viva El Coyote slips away] HEY! STOP! Menu. Movies. Release Calendar Top 250 Movies Most Popular Movies Browse Movies by Genre Top Box Office Showtimes & Tickets Movie News India Movie Spotlight. TV Shows.
Bordertown (Literature) - TV Tropes The Bordertown series (also known as the Borderland series) is a Shared Universe created by Terri Windling.
The series was aimed at teenagers and thus focused heavily on Teen Issues like runaways, drugs and gangs.
It featured contributions from the likes of Charles de Lint, Emma Bull, and Will Shetterly..
At some point in the near future, the Land of Faerie returns to earth, landing on Los ...
Bordertown (American TV series) - Wikiquote Bordertown (American TV series) American adult animated sitcom television series
Bordertown is an American animated sitcom created by Mark Hentemann for the Fox Broadcasting Company.
🤖Bordertown Reddit Talks
General reception
The show has received mixed reactions from viewers, with some finding it enjoyable and others finding it unwatchable. Those who enjoyed the show praised its fast-paced plot, excellent acting, and well-developed relationships. Those who disliked the show found the main character bizarre and unlikable, and the overall tone of the show to be too dark and depressing.
Specific criticisms
Some viewers found the main character, Kari Sorjonen, to be unlikable and bizarre. They found his behavior to be erratic and unpredictable, and his relationships with other characters to be strained and unrealistic.
Other viewers found the show’s tone to be too dark and depressing. They found the subject matter to be too violent and disturbing, and the overall atmosphere of the show to be too bleak.
Positive reviews
Despite the negative reviews, the show also has its fans. Those who enjoyed the show praised its fast-paced plot, excellent acting, and well-developed relationships. They found the show to be suspenseful and engaging, and the characters to be complex and relatable.
Overall
Bordertown is a show that has divided viewers. Some viewers find it to be an enjoyable and suspenseful crime drama, while others find it to be too dark and depressing. Ultimately, whether or not you enjoy the show will depend on your personal preferences.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Bordertown/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Bordertown/comments/455d74/why_do_most_hate_this_show/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/NetflixBestOf/comments/kl6u3o/discussion_does_bordertown_get_better/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/television/comments/3zcszs/bordertown_series_premiere_discussion_thread/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Finland/comments/oaawdq/bordertown/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the serial killer in Bordertown?
In Bordertown, the imprisoned serial killer Lasse Maasalo is portrayed as a significant character. His actions and motives play a crucial role in the storyline of the show.
Is Sorjonen autistic?
Yes, Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen in Bordertown is depicted as a high-functioning autistic individual with traits related to savantism. The character is inspired by British writer Daniel Tammet and embodies a unique and brilliant persona.
Why did Netflix remove Bordertown?
Netflix acquired the international streaming rights for Bordertown exclusively for a fixed period of time. After this time expired, the show was removed from the platform.
Why was Bordertown cancelled?
Bordertown was cancelled due to poor ratings and reviews. Despite its intriguing premise and characters, the show did not resonate with a wide audience, leading to its cancellation.
What is the premise of Bordertown TV Show?
Bordertown TV Show follows the life of Detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen as he moves to a small town near the Russian border to spend more time with his family. However, he quickly discovers that the tranquility he seeks is disrupted by chilling crimes he investigates.
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