The Chestnut Man
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The Chestnut Man (2021) is a Danish psychological thriller and Nordic noir crime series, originally released on Netflix. The show follows two detectives, Naia Thulin and Mark Hess, as they investigate a series of brutal murders in Copenhagen, each linked by a mysterious figurine made of chestnuts found at the crime scenes. The investigation soon connects to the cold case of a politician's missing daughter. Known for its dark, atmospheric tone, intricate plot, and morally complex characters, the series is aimed at mature audiences due to its graphic depictions of violence, disturbing themes, and mature content. It has garnered critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and suspenseful execution.
Things to Consider
Violence
The series contains strong and graphic violence, which is central to its crime thriller genre. Murders are depicted as brutal and often involve mutilation, with a focus on psychological impact rather than gratuitous gore, though injury details are explicit.
The opening scene from 1987 depicts a horrific farm massacre where a police officer discovers an entire family brutally slaughtered with ax wounds in their home. In present-day Copenhagen, the initial murder victim, Laura Kjær, is found brutally murdered in a playground, with one of her hands missing and her left eye cut out. Later victims also suffer dismemberment, with 'each successive act of violence increases the number of extremities amputated.' The killer, Simon Genz, stabs Rosa Hartung in the hand in the final episode.
Romance and Sexual Content
The series includes adult romantic tension between the main characters and features some sexual content. While not explicitly graphic in detail, classification bodies have noted 'Strong Sex Scenes'.
Scary & Intense Content
The series is a deeply unsettling and tense psychological thriller, featuring horrific crime scenes, sustained dread, and some jump scares. The overall atmosphere is dark and disturbing.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
TV-MA / MA 15+. This series is recommended for viewers aged 15 and above due to strong violence, disturbing content, mature themes, moderate language, and implied sexual content. Younger audiences are likely to be distressed by the graphic nature of the murders and the psychological intensity of the storyline.
Good to Know
The series has been renewed for a second season, titled 'The Chestnut Man: Hide and Seek,' which premiered on May 7, 2026. This sequel reportedly maintains the dark tone and features increased physical violence, while exploring the developing romantic tension between the lead detectives, Thulin and Hess.
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