Chemistry of Death is a solid, albeit traditional, addition to the "morbidly brilliant specialist" subgenre of crime thrillers. Based on Simon Beckett’s novels, the first season follows forensic anthropologist David Hunter, a man haunted by personal tragedy who trades the high-stakes world of London forensics for the quiet life of a village GP—until, inevitably, the bodies start piling up.
Treadaway brings a compelling, quiet intensity to David Hunter. He plays the character with a fragile intelligence that feels grounded rather than superhuman. Chemistry of Death - Season 1
The series excels at capturing the "elevated gloom" of its settings. Whether it’s the damp, claustrophobic woods of Norfolk or the rugged, isolated beauty of the Scottish Hebrides, the cinematography leans into a cold, desaturated palette that perfectly matches the subject matter. Chemistry of Death is a solid, albeit traditional,
It’s a moody, well-acted procedural that prioritizes atmosphere over action. If you enjoy the "forensic noir" vibe of shows like Silent Witness but want something a bit more cinematic and grim, it’s well worth a watch. He plays the character with a fragile intelligence
The season is split into two distinct arcs (covering the first two books). This results in a slightly jarring mid-season shift that makes the show feel like two mini-movies rather than a cohesive 6-episode narrative.