Review: Strike (also known as C.B. Strike)
Genre: Crime Drama / Mystery
Strike is a gripping British crime drama series based on the bestselling novels by J.K. Rowling (writing as Robert Galbraith). With Tom Burke in the role of Cormoran Strike—a grizzled, down-on-his-luck war veteran turned private investigator—the show brings a compelling, gritty realism to the modern detective genre. Alongside him is Robin Ellacott, played with nuance and strength by Holliday Grainger, whose role grows from temp assistant to invaluable partner.
From its first episode in 2017, Strike has set itself apart with its sharp writing, psychological depth, and layered character development. Each season adapts one of the novels, diving into intricately plotted mysteries that range from celebrity murders (The Cuckoo’s Calling) to the twisted world of publishing (The Silkworm), serial killers (Career of Evil), and long-buried cold cases (Troubled Blood). The evolving partnership—and unspoken romantic tension—between Strike and Robin adds emotional weight to the suspenseful investigations.
What elevates the series is its careful balance between personal drama and crime solving. Strike is not a typical TV detective—he’s a wounded, deeply intelligent man carrying physical and emotional scars, while Robin balances ambition with trauma of her own. Their evolving dynamic adds depth to the procedural format, and the show never shies away from exploring complex moral and emotional issues.
Visually, Strike captures the moody streets of London and beyond, grounding its stories in a believable, lived-in world. The mysteries themselves are layered, often rooted in psychology and character, not just plot twists.
With five series completed and a sixth on the way (The Ink Black Heart), Strike has grown into one of the most consistently engaging British crime dramas of the past decade.
Are you a fan of literary adaptations or character-driven mysteries? What’s your favorite case from the series? Let us know in the comments!
