The new crime drama Hidden/Craith from BBC Wales opens with a discovery that immediately sets a dark tone: the body of a young girl is found by a lake, prompting an investigation led by DI Cadi John (Sian Reese-Williams).
The investigation quickly links the present case with missing person cases from years earlier. As DI John and her team work through the case, they cross paths with a troubled young man living in isolation with his harsh mother and daughter, as well as a lonely college student.
The foggy atmosphere deepens the mystery (Photo: Hidden Series 1/7 Media Production)These characters become intertwined in the ominous events that unfold.
A Slow Burn with an Overbearing Tone
If you’re familiar with the Scandi-noir genre, you might recognize the familiar tropes Hidden draws upon. The show feels very much like many of the dark, intense series we have seen before, where a body is discovered near water and the lead character struggles with personal demons while trying to solve the case.
Though Hidden tries to emulate these successful dramas, it often feels too earnest, and the storyline doesn’t stand out as anything particularly groundbreaking. The atmosphere is deliberately bleak, but it sometimes feels as if the darkness is there for its own sake.
From the start, it’s clear that Hidden will be a slow burn, with the first episodes dragging their feet. For a significant portion of time, it feels as though nothing of consequence is happening. The series takes its time introducing the many characters.
With so many names and side plots that seem irrelevant, it becomes hard to keep track of everything. The show doesn’t begin to truly pick up pace until episode three, at which point it becomes more engaging, and the unfolding events finally compel you to stick around and see how things resolve.
Cinematography and Performances Make a Mark
As mentioned earlier, the show carries a very somber tone, and while it’s commendable that BBC Wales is attempting to carve out its dark, gripping crime dramas, it might have taken the gloom a bit too far.
The series seems to believe that an oppressive atmosphere equals quality crime drama, but unfortunately, this leaves the story feeling basic, with characters who lack the warmth or depth that could make them more relatable.
Tragic characters with complex secrets come to light (Photo: Hidden Series 1/7 Media Production)Even so, it’s encouraging to see Welsh productions making their way into broader UK television. With the Welsh language incorporated and shows like Hinterland and Keeping Faith already showcasing what BBC Wales is capable of, Hidden represents a promising step in gaining more recognition for original Welsh TV productions.
There is potential for greater creativity and innovation in future programming, but it will require more original thinking to truly stand out. Visually, Hidden impresses with its cinematography, even though the frequent foggy, overcast weather adds to its dark tone.
The diverse locations are beautifully captured, showing technical prowess in the production. The acting is generally solid, though some performances feel forced at times. Sian Reese-Williams gives a relatable portrayal of DI Cadi John.
She brings humanity to the role of the dogged detective who struggles with family issues while tirelessly working to solve the case. Despite personal challenges, Cadi’s tough, resilient nature shines through, and Reese-Williams handles the role with ease.
Sion Alun Davies plays her partner with competence, while Gillian Elisa brings a harsh edge to her portrayal of the “evil grandmother.” Rhodri Meilir, as Dylan Harris, the central antagonist, delivers a subtly unsettling performance.
While not the most compelling character, he leaves a strong impression with his unpredictable nature. It’s also worth noting that one of the supporting characters, PC Mari James, is portrayed by an actress I happened to meet through youth theatre, which adds a personal touch to the viewing experience.
