Dark secrets and lingering shadows: a detective's obsession unfolds in 'what remains'
A seemingly innocuous discovery in a South London flat—a body left for two years—ignites a relentless investigation and unravels a web of deceit in the chilling new series, ‘What Remains.’
A detective haunted by the past
DI Len Harper, played with unnerving intensity by David Threlfall (famously seen as ‘Shane’ in ‘Shameless’), isn’t seeking retirement; he’s chasing ghosts. The cold case of Melissa Young, tragically found within the walls of 8 Coulthard Street, refuses to let him rest, pulling him into the lives of its unsettling residents.
The building itself is a pressure cooker of hidden identities. Russell Tovey portrays Michael Jenson, a young couple unwittingly entangled in the mystery, alongside Amber Rose Revah as his pregnant partner, Vidya Khan. But the narrative truly thrives on the unsettling periphery: Indira Varma delivers a captivating performance as Peggy, a ruthlessly pragmatic businesswoman whose carefully constructed world crumbles with the revelation of Melissa’s fate, and her equally formidable partner, Elaine, a character described by the BBC as “speaking her mind and always getting what she wants.”
A cast of suspects, each with a secret
Adding layers of complexity is Steven Mackintosh as Kieron Moss, a journalist sheltering within the building, and Claudie Blakley as Patricia, his cryptic partner. The ensemble includes Jessica Gunning as the deceased Melissa, glimpsed primarily through fragmented flashbacks, and a host of supporting characters – from the teenage Adam (Alex Arnold) to the enigmatic Joe Sellers (David Bamber) – each harboring secrets within the claustrophobic confines of 8 Coulthard Street.
Critical acclaim and a slow-burn mystery
Critics have lauded ‘What Remains’ for its deliberate pacing and atmospheric tension. The Telegraph acknowledged the series’ “thumper” ending, forgiving its contrived elements, while The Guardian described Threlfall’s performance as “convincingly grim,” noting its place alongside other bleak, Sunday-night television offerings. Despite a 2013 release, the series continues to garner attention for its intricate plot and compelling characters.
Where to watch
‘What Remains’ is available on BBC iPlayer and as a four-part mini-series with an IMDb rating of 7.4. Prepare for a dark and immersive experience.