‘The Breakthrough’ (2025) Netflix Series Review - Who Committed the Crime?

The Breakthrough delves into the harrowing aftermath of a senseless murder—a crime committed without any discernible motive. The premise alone is enough to captivate viewers, but the series takes this further by plunging into the emotional turmoil of everyone involved. Over four tightly packed episodes, The Breakthrough takes its audience on a devastating journey, exploring not just the intricacies of the case but also the ripple effects on the victim’s family and the broader community.

Right from the outset, the series hooks its audience with a chilling setup. It crafts an atmosphere of tension and dread that doesn’t let up. The first episode is particularly gripping, introducing the crime with an air of mystery that promises a riveting ride. The heartbreak and chaos that follow this unthinkable act of violence are palpable, and the show does a commendable job of portraying how a senseless tragedy can fracture lives and communities. The emotional weight is heavy and unrelenting, making it impossible to watch without being deeply affected.

However, as the episodes progress, The Breakthrough begins to falter. While the series manages to convey the gravity of the crime, it struggles to maintain its momentum. For a crime show to truly succeed, it needs to provide a sense of progression and discovery, keeping the audience engaged with twists and revelations. Unfortunately, TheBreakthrough becomes sluggish after its promising start. The narrative seems to stagnate, with much of the focus placed on John, the lead investigator, who spends a significant portion of the series grappling with his own ego rather than making meaningful strides in the case. This lack of forward motion undermines the show’s potential to be a gripping thriller.

The characters, while central to the story, leave much to be desired. John, portrayed by Peter Eggers, is a dedicated investigator, but his overconfidence and lack of humility make him a frustrating protagonist. While his determination is admirable, it’s hard to root for him when his flaws are so pronounced. On the other hand, Mattias Nordkvist’s portrayal of Per, a headstrong counterpart to John, provides a refreshing contrast. The dynamic between John and Per is intriguing, offering glimpses of conflict and camaraderie that could have been explored further. Unfortunately, the series doesn’t give their relationship the depth it deserves, leaving viewers wanting more.

One of the most frustrating aspects of The Breakthrough is its uneven pacing. Although the true story spans over a decade, the series attempts to condense this timeline by skipping over stagnant periods. While this approach avoids unnecessary filler, it also results in a disjointed narrative that fails to build consistent tension. By the time the case reaches its resolution in the final episode, the payoff feels unearned, as the journey to get there has been marked by missed opportunities to delve deeper into the investigation.

Despite its flaws, The Breakthrough manages to keep viewers invested until the end. The performances by Eggers and Nordkvist are commendable, and the underlying story—a quest for justice for a young victim—is undeniably compelling. The series shines a light on the devastating impact of senseless violence and the relentless pursuit of truth, even if its execution leaves something to be desired.

In conclusion, The Breakthrough is a mixed bag. Its emotionally charged subject matter and strong performances are overshadowed by its sluggish pacing and underdeveloped characters. While it’s far from a perfect crime drama, it’s still worth watching for those who appreciate stories rooted in real-life tragedies. The series’s ability to evoke raw emotion ensures that it leaves a lasting impression, even if it falls short of its full potential.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times