ITVX has unleashed a seismic shockwave in the world of crime dramas with the quiet re-release of River, a six-part psychological thriller starring Nicola Walker and Stellan Skarsgård. Originally aired on BBC One in 2015, this haunting series has found a new life on ITVX as of May 8, 2025, and fans are losing their minds over its gut-punching narrative and a final twist that has left viewers reeling. Dubbed by some as “better than Dept. Q” for its emotional depth and unpredictable storytelling, River is not just a detective drama—it’s a soul-shattering exploration of grief, memory, and truth. With a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score and a star-studded cast, this binge-worthy series is the must-watch thriller of the year. Buckle up, because those final five minutes will leave you questioning everything.

A Detective Drama Like No Other

Created by Abi Morgan, the acclaimed writer behind The Split and Eric, River defies the conventions of the typical crime procedural. The series centers on Detective Inspector John River (Stellan Skarsgård), a brilliant but tormented Metropolitan Police officer grappling with the murder of his partner and close friend, DS Jackie “Stevie” Stevenson (Nicola Walker). What sets River apart is its refusal to follow the standard whodunit formula. Instead, it weaves a poetic, surreal tapestry that blends psychological drama, supernatural elements, and raw human emotion. As River investigates Stevie’s death, he is haunted by her presence—and those of other victims and killers from his cases—blurring the lines between reality and hallucination.

The show’s premise is both simple and profound: River, a man whose isolation allows him to connect deeply with the victims of his cases, must unravel the mystery of Stevie’s murder while confronting his own fractured mental state. The synopsis teases, “As the investigation into Stevie’s murder begins to reveal her deepest secrets, River has to question everything he thought he knew about his one true friend. Their relationship might have survived her death, but can it survive the truth of who she really was in life?” This question drives the narrative, pulling viewers into a labyrinth of emotional and moral complexity.

Nicola Walker’s performance as Stevie is nothing short of magnetic. Known for her roles in Unforgotten, The Split, and Spooks, Walker brings a layered intensity to Stevie, portraying her as both a charismatic, quick-witted detective and a figure shrouded in mystery. Her chemistry with Skarsgård, whose portrayal of River is described as “sensitive and memorable,” elevates the series to new heights. Fans have taken to social media to praise the duo, with one viewer writing, “River made me cry like no crime drama ever has. Nicola Walker and Stellan Skarsgård are on another level.”

A Slow Burn with a Shocking Payoff

River begins as a seemingly straightforward procedural but quickly evolves into something far more profound. The series’ six hour-long episodes build a slow, deliberate tension, drawing viewers into River’s psyche as he navigates grief, guilt, and the ghosts of his past. The show’s setting in London’s gritty underbelly, coupled with its haunting score and stark cinematography, creates a bleak yet captivating atmosphere. As Crime Fiction Lover notes, “There’s a huge, huge twist when it comes to why Stevie was killed, which we build to across six hour-long episodes. Each of these will bring a tear to the eye, but it’s worth it.”

The final twist, revealed in the last five minutes of the series, has sparked a frenzy among viewers. Without spoiling the details, the revelation recontextualizes everything we thought we knew about Stevie and River’s relationship, delivering an emotional gut-punch that has fans screaming on social media. One viewer posted, “I wasn’t ready for that ending… River’s final twist destroyed me,” while another declared, “Dept. Q was brilliant, but River’s finale is next-level soul-shattering.” The twist is not just a plot device; it’s a profound commentary on trust, betrayal, and the fragility of human connection, making River a standout in the crowded crime drama landscape.

Nicola Walker’s Star Power

Nicola Walker, often hailed as one of Britain’s most versatile actresses, delivers a performance in River that is both heartbreaking and enigmatic. As Stevie, she appears in flashbacks and as a spectral presence in River’s mind, her warmth and humor juxtaposed with the dark secrets that unravel as the investigation deepens. Walker’s ability to convey both strength and vulnerability makes Stevie a character viewers can’t help but love, even as they question her true nature. Her performance earned praise from critics, with The Guardian describing River as “more than just a crime drama—it’s a study of loss and grief.”

Walker’s illustrious career, including roles in Unforgotten, Last Tango in Halifax, and The Split, has made her a household name in British television. Her work in River stands out for its emotional complexity, as she navigates the dual role of a lively partner and a ghostly figure haunting River’s conscience. As one fan tweeted, “Nicola Walker in River is like watching a masterclass in acting. She’s the heart of the show, and that twist… I’m still not over it.” The series’ re-release on ITVX has introduced Walker’s performance to a new audience, cementing her status as a crime drama icon.

A Stellar Ensemble and Creative Vision

While Walker and Skarsgård lead the charge, River boasts a stellar supporting cast that adds depth to its narrative. Adeel Akhtar (Sherwood) plays Detective Sergeant Ira King, bringing a grounded counterpoint to River’s unraveling psyche. Lesley Manville (The Crown) shines as Chief Inspector Chrissie Read, while Eddie Marsan (Ray Donovan) delivers a chilling performance as a notorious killer who torments River. The ensemble’s chemistry, combined with Abi Morgan’s nuanced writing, creates a rich tapestry of characters whose stories intersect in unexpected ways.

Morgan’s script is a masterwork of emotional storytelling, blending gritty realism with surreal elements. Her experience crafting character-driven dramas like The Split is evident in River’s focus on human relationships over procedural tropes. Director Richard Laxton enhances the series’ mood with a muted color palette and intimate camera work, making every moment feel personal and visceral. The show’s 100% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects its critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its “poetic, heartbreaking, and surreal” approach to the crime genre.

Why River Outshines Dept. Q

Fans and critics have drawn comparisons between River and Dept. Q, the popular Danish crime series known for its dark, character-driven mysteries. While Dept. Q excels in its gritty Scandi noir aesthetic, River distinguishes itself with its emotional depth and psychological complexity. As one viewer noted, “Dept. Q was brilliant, but River made me cry like no crime drama ever has. It’s not just a mystery—it’s therapy through fiction.” The series’ focus on River’s mental state and his haunting visions of Stevie gives it a unique edge, offering a more introspective take on the genre.

The final twist in River has been a particular point of comparison, with fans arguing it surpasses the shock value of Dept. Q’s most memorable reveals. The series’ ability to balance a slow-burn investigation with moments of unexpected humor and profound sadness makes it a standout. As Widelensnews reports, “Fans are calling it ‘better than Dept. Q’ and ‘the most addictive mystery series in years.’” The re-release on ITVX has amplified its word-of-mouth buzz, drawing in viewers seeking a deeper, more affecting crime story.

The ITVX Revival and Cultural Impact

River’s quiet arrival on ITVX in May 2025 has sparked a resurgence of interest, transforming it from an underrated gem to a word-of-mouth sensation. Originally canceled by the BBC after one season due to insufficient viewership, the series has found a second life on ITVX, where all six episodes are available to stream for free. The timing couldn’t be better, as fans of complex crime dramas like Broadchurch, Line of Duty, and The Fall are hungry for fresh content. River’s re-release has tapped into this demand, with social media ablaze with reactions to its emotional weight and shocking finale.

The series’ exploration of grief and mental health resonates deeply in today’s cultural landscape, where audiences crave stories that go beyond surface-level thrills. River’s blend of psychological realism and supernatural elements feels both timeless and timely, offering a fresh perspective on the detective genre. As Crime Fiction Lover notes, “River is a real one-off and we recommend it.” Its availability on ITVX has made it accessible to a broader audience, ensuring that its haunting narrative reaches those who missed it in 2015.

Critical Acclaim and Fan Reactions

With a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score and glowing reviews, River has long been celebrated by critics, even if it initially flew under the radar. The Telegraph called it “superlatively creepy,” while The Guardian praised its focus on “personal tragedy, demons, and loss.” Fans have echoed this sentiment, with one viewer writing, “Binge-watched River. Excellent work, Nicola Walker and Stellan Skarsgård.” The series’ emotional resonance and unforgettable twist have made it a topic of fervent discussion, with viewers urging others to experience it blind to avoid spoilers.

Social media reactions highlight the series’ lasting impact. One fan posted, “River is the best crime series you’ve never seen. That final twist had me screaming at my TV.” Another wrote, “Nicola Walker carries River with such grace, but it’s that ending that’ll haunt you forever.” The show’s ability to evoke tears, gasps, and introspection has solidified its status as a cult classic, now poised to become a mainstream hit.

Why You Should Watch River

River is not just another crime drama—it’s a profound exploration of what it means to live with loss, question trust, and seek truth in a fractured world. Nicola Walker and Stellan Skarsgård deliver career-defining performances, supported by a stellar cast and Abi Morgan’s masterful writing. The series’ slow-burn pacing, haunting visuals, and emotional depth make it a binge-worthy masterpiece, but it’s the final twist that elevates it to legendary status. As one viewer put it, “I didn’t think anything could top Dept. Q for emotional impact, but River destroyed me.”

Available to stream for free on ITVX, River is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven storytelling. Be warned: once you start, you won’t stop until you reach that unforgettable final scene. Prepare to laugh, cry, and scream as River takes you on a journey you won’t soon forget. All six episodes are waiting—dive in, but don’t say we didn’t warn you about that twist. 😱🔥