Die 15-jährige Jennifer wird in ihrem Heimatdorf tot aufgefunden. Neben der Leiche des Mädchens liegt ein Stein mit Blutspuren. Die Ermittlungen in ihrem ersten Fall führen Hauptkommissarin Wanda Rosenbaum zu Mark. Der Junge, der im selben Ort lebt, gesteht den Mord. Er ist 13 Jahre alt. - Ein Kind mordete ein Kind? Weder die erfahrene Polizistin noch die Bewohner des Dorfes wollen an diese Möglichkeit glauben. Mark, der seine Tat ohne Mitleid oder Schuldgefühl beschreibt, ist noch nicht strafmündig. Nachdem er das Protokoll unterschrieben hat, darf er nach Hause gehen. Weder Kripo noch Justiz sind für ihn zuständig. Doch ein Zuhause gibt es für den Jungen nicht mehr. Das Dorf begegnet ihm und seiner Familie mit offener Ablehnung.
If there’s one show that has stood the test of time in the world of crime dramas, it’s undoubtedly Tatort. First airing on November 29, 1970, this German-language police procedural television series has become a staple in households across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Broadcasted on major channels like ARD, ORF 2, and SF1, Tatort has produced over 1200 episodes across its remarkable 55 seasons. Each episode is distinctively crafted by various regional broadcasters, showcasing unique settings and local customs while maintaining a thread of gripping crime-solving narratives.
One of the most compelling aspects of Tatort is its commitment to character depth and development. The format allows for feature-length episodes averaging around 90 minutes each—far longer than typical weekly dramas—which affords viewers an immersive experience into the lives of its protagonists. From iconic inspectors like Schimanski to contemporary favorites navigating complex cases in bustling cities or quiet towns, viewers get a multi-dimensional view of not just the crimes but the cultures surrounding them. This emphasis on character makes it easy for audiences to connect with their stories and invest emotionally in their fates.
The collaborative production model behind Tatort is another reason for its phenomenal longevity and success. Each participating regional TV station contributes uniquely styled episodes featuring different teams of inspectors solving crimes in their own cities—from scenic Vienna to vibrant Berlin—showcasing local architecture and dialects as integral parts of the plotline. This approach not only enriches each episode but also fosters a sense of community among viewers who may recognize their own locales being portrayed onscreen.