Ein Wohnungsbrand im Dachgeschoss eines Mehrfamilienhauses in Halle. Hinter einem der Fenster ist für einen Moment ein Kind zu sehen. Noch vor dem Eintreffen der Feuerwehr rettet Hauptkommissar Schneider zwei kleine Jungen aus der brennenden Wohnung. Für den dreijährigen Mike kommt jedoch jede Hilfe zu spät. Hauptkommissar Schneider konnte ihn nur noch tot aus den Flammen bergen. Das Ergebnis der Obduktion erschüttert die Hauptkommissare Schmücke und Schneider zutiefst. Der kleine Junge ist qualvoll verhungert. Mike und Torsten waren mindestens zwei Wochen in der Wohnung eingesperrt gewesen - und das mit zu wenig Lebensmitteln. Wie kann eine Mutter nur so etwas tun? Wollte sie ihre Kinder auf so grausame Weise loswerden?
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.