The BBC crime drama has been praised as a ' non-stop adrenaline ride' that's perfect for those craving a 'raw' and intense yet still bingeable bit of telly08:13, 08 Jul 2026A "gritty" BBC crime drama has been hailed as a "non-stop adrenaline ride" - ideal for viewers who favour their television with a healthy dose of drama and darkness.‌There's an extensive selection of critically acclaimed thrillers and crime shows deserving of a binge-watching marathon, numerous examples of which have been produced by the BBC.‌From the devastating mystery of Broadchurch to the hard-hitting crime drama Happy Valley and the phenomenally successful police procedural Line of Duty, to Sherlock, a contemporary take on the iconic Arthur Conan Doyle mysteries; there's something to cater for all crime show fans.‌Lots of BBC shows continue to be regarded highly long after they've ceased broadcasting. This is certainly true of the psychological crime thriller series, Luther.Written by Neil Cross, it spanned five seasons, launching in 2010 and concluding in 2019. It features Idris Elba as the titular DCI John Luther, alongside Ruth Wilson as killer Alice Morgan.‌The series follows the London-based detective as he endeavours to track down the capital's most depraved and brutal serial killers, all while wrestling with his own personal demons.The series is popular and famed for its relentlessly dark atmosphere, and the numerous cat-and-mouse encounters the detective confronts in his pursuit of justice. Luther himself is a gifted and exceptional detective, though he's emotionally volatile and inclined to blur the boundaries when it comes to morality.Despite wrapping up back in 2019, the series continues to be a firm favourite among crime drama enthusiasts searching for their next binge-worthy obsession.‌On Rotten Tomatoes, both critics and viewers alike have been vocal in sharing their verdicts on the beloved programme.Critic Alix Turner said: "Idris Elba and Neil Cross have done it again, in a gut-wrenching and sharply written fifth season of the fan-favourite detective drama. Well-written characters and continuity like this can carry any plot and cover any flaws."Similarly, Dan Ashby said: "Season five of Luther is a non-stop adrenaline ride that refuses to let up for even a moment. It is raw and resonating, cutting straight down to the nerve."‌While Matt Roush added: "It's all a bit much, but if it weren't, it wouldn't be Luther."And IndieWire's Tambay Obenson said: "Tautly paced, intriguing, and full of even more personal stakes, the season ends tragically and beautifully in its own way."‌Fans were equally eager to make their voices heard on the fifth series. One commented: "Season 5 brings back Idris Elba's gritty, intense detective for another gripping round. The dark atmosphere and high-stakes drama are as thrilling as ever, with Elba delivering a powerhouse performance that keeps you hooked."Another concurred: "It's dark. Really dark. But the coolest serial killer case in history. Plus Elba is incredible as usual. Not for the faint of heart though. Wouldn't recommend to my church buddies."A third said: "I enjoyed season five of 'Luther'. It isn't perfect, but it delivers the desired amount of entertainment. Idris Elba remains brilliant as the titular character."Article continues belowA fourth agreed: "Incredible writing, and the continuation of a powerhouse performance by Idris Elba."Another viewer wrote: "A step down but still VERY well done."Luther can be streamed for free on BBC iPlayer.