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Department Q poster

Department Q (2025)

TV showRated MA 15+

CTV score7.9/ 10

Where to watch Department Q in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Department Q

A brash but brilliant cop becomes head of a new police department, where he leads an unlikely team of misfits in solving Edinburgh's cold cases.

Year
2025
Genres
Drama, Mystery, Thriller, Crime
Seasons
1
Top cast
Matthew Goode, Chloe Pirrie, Jamie Sives, Alexej Manvelov, Leah Byrne

Department Q trailer

Department Q trailerPlay video: Department Q trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Department Q stands out as a refreshing addition to the crime drama genre, with its captivating narrative and well-developed characters. The film cleverly intertwines humour and serious themes, creating a balance that keeps the audience engaged. The brash lead cop, portrayed with flair, drives the narrative forward, while the supporting cast of misfits adds depth and charm. Each character's journey is thoughtfully explored, making their individual arcs resonate. The direction is sharp, utilising Edinburgh's atmospheric backdrop effectively, enhancing the storytelling. While the pacing may falter at times, the film ultimately delivers a satisfying resolution that feels earned. Overall, Department Q is an entertaining watch that combines suspense with character-driven moments.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Department Q is an intriguing film that tries to blend comedy with crime, but it sometimes stumbles in execution. The premise of a misfit team tackling cold cases is solid, and there are moments of genuine wit, yet the overall tone feels uneven. The lead performance is strong, bringing a charismatic yet flawed character to life, but some secondary characters lack development, leaving their arcs feeling underwhelming. While the plot has twists, it can be predictable at points, relying on familiar tropes in the genre. Despite its flaws, Department Q has its moments and could appeal to those who enjoy light-hearted crime dramas. It’s worth a watch, but don’t expect a groundbreaking experience.

How viewers describe this

  • engaging
  • refreshing
  • uneven
  • captivating
  • entertaining
  • suspenseful
  • predictable
  • charming
  • intriguing
  • dark
  • humorous
  • flawed

Department Q seasons

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Department Q?

Is Department Q worth watching?

Yes, Department Q is worth watching for its engaging plot and dynamic character interactions. The film brings a fresh perspective to the crime genre, showcasing a unique team of misfits tackling cold cases in Edinburgh. The mix of humour and drama keeps the audience entertained while exploring deeper themes of redemption and teamwork.

What is Department Q really about?

Department Q follows a brash yet brilliant cop who heads a newly formed police department in Edinburgh. He leads an unlikely team of misfits as they investigate cold cases, blending mystery and character development. The film explores themes of teamwork, personal growth, and the impact of unresolved pasts.

Is Department Q suitable for children?

Department Q is not particularly suitable for children due to its mature themes, crime-related content, and some intense scenes. Parents should consider the age and sensitivity of their children before allowing them to watch this film.

Where can I watch Department Q in Australia?

In Australia, Department Q is available for streaming on various platforms. Check popular services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or local streaming options to find where you can watch it.

What happens at the end of Department Q? (Spoilers)

At the end of Department Q, the team successfully solves a pivotal cold case, leading to significant revelations about the characters' pasts. The resolution not only brings closure to the investigation but also highlights the growth of the team members, setting the stage for potential future adventures.

Is it based on a true story?

Department Q is inspired by the popular book series by Jussi Adler-Olsen. While the characters and plot are fictional, they resonate with real-life themes of crime and justice, making it feel authentic in its portrayal of cold case investigations.

Is Department Q scary?

Department Q contains suspenseful moments and dark themes but is not classified as a horror film. It may evoke tension and intrigue rather than outright fear, appealing more to fans of crime drama than horror enthusiasts.

What films are similar to Department Q?

If you enjoyed Department Q, you might also like films such as The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Seven, or The Bridge. These films similarly blend crime, mystery, and character-driven storytelling.