By focusing on a single investigation, the show can explore details that are generally ignored or only hinted at in most police procedurals. The show follows the investigation day-by-day, but also deals with the impact of the crime on the lives of the victim's family and the suspects. In fact, one of the most striking elements of the show is seeing how the family deals with the tragedy from the initial worries to picking out a casket for their daughter. This element of the show is dark and feels very real.
The show's main focus is on the investigation itself which progresses slowly as Rosie, like many teenagers, had secrets and as the parents and police uncover her secrets, it adds to the picture of the victim's life, but doesn't necessarily lead to who killed her. An additional level of tension comes from the fact that the lead investigator was supposed to leave town with her family the day Rosie's body was found and she is put in a position where she may have to choose between her fiancé and catching Rosie's killer.
The Killing has what I refer to as a "premise problem". The story is built around a question (who killed Rosie?) that the characters are actively trying to answer. This can lead to several problematic ways of extending the show's lifespan: The question never gets answered, or it gets answered and continues to air past its natural lifespan. Alternatively, the show could progress at an acceptable pace and eventually end with a satisfying conclusion. Fortunately, the show is well made and gives you lots to watch for other than just waiting to find out who killed Rosie.The slow pace and lack of satisfying resolution at the end of each episode may not suit some viewers, but there is enough going on to keep you coming back. If you like dark dramas or suspenseful thrillers, this is definitely a show you should be watching.
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