'Best' true crime drama about 'deadly smart' serial killer now streaming

Following the success of Netflix's Monster: The Ed Gein Story and My Father, the BTK Killer, true crime enthusiasts should not miss this superb dramatisation, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The ITV miniseries, released in 2020, presents a spine-chilling narrative about a real-life serial killer.

One viewer titled their IMDb review: "Masterclass of a performance" and elaborated: "I've seen documentaries on this sicko in the past but nothing compares to a great dramatisation of a true story."

Another audience member penned in their perfect score review: "It's a well known story, brought to life vividly in this terrific drama, it's an uncomfortable watch at times, he truly was a monster."

A third person remarked in their top-tier review: "It's creepy but intense! I really enjoyed it! Everyone who likes thrillers and true stories should give it a try!"

Des, which aired on ITV in 2020, chronicled the apprehension and questioning of Scottish serial killer Dennis Nilsen (portrayed by David Tennant).

Operating concurrently with infamous killers like Fred West, Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy, the BTK Killer Dennis Rader, and Jeffrey Dahmer, Nilsen was a serial killer and necrophile who murdered at least 12 young men and boys between 1978 and 1983.

Nilsen committed his heinous crimes while residing at two different properties in North London.

The title of the ITV show, Des, is derived from Nilsen's nickname and depicts the killer's arrest following the discovery of human remains at his property.

Des, the chilling drama series, boasts a star-studded cast including David Tennant, Line of Duty's Daniel Mays and Jason Watkins, Ben Bailey Smith, Barry Ward, Derry Girls' Laurie Kynaston, The Crown's Pip Torrens, and Bronagh Waugh from The Fall.

Tennant, known for his roles in Good Omens and Doctor Who, has been lauded for his icy portrayal of the notorious killer.

One impressed viewer penned a glowing 10/10 review: "David Tennants [sic] performance is one to remember!"

They elaborated: "Possibly the greatest role David has played to date. Utterly creepy whilst deadly smart. A gripping drama that will make you really question what mankind is capavle [sic] of at the worst of times."

Another fan remarked: "When actor is a bigger villain, than the villain himself" and expanded: "David Tennant blew me away with his performance - he managed to be more creepy and disturbing than the actual Dennis Nielsen [sic]. It sucks out all the joy from this world, and leaves you speechless and broken.

"Wonderful performance! ! ! ! The whole cast deserves standing ovation for this show. Well worth watching this one."

Another viewer praised the programme, stating: "The show somehow manages to strike the perfect balance between depicting the irredeemable monstrosity of the title character - played expertly by indomitable talent, David Tennant - whilst simultaneously refraining from ever glorifying his role or his crimes, alternatively opting to explore his unconscionable vulgarities through the depiction of their lasting consequences; the resulting trauma, pain and grief endured by those who either survived or lost loved ones."

Des is streaming on ITVX now