Tod eines Schachmeisters: Zwei Tage nach dem triumphalen Sieg gegen den seit Jahren amtierenden Meister Ralf von Waldow wird Justus Kölbl erschlagen in seiner Wohnung aufgefunden - die SOKO 5113 ermittelt. Franziska Benisch, Kölbls Lebensgefährtin, hält nicht für ausgeschlossen, dass der Mord mit dessen Sieg zu tun hat. Doch auch Gerhard Setzmüller, der ehemalige Arbeitgeber Kölbls, der diesen in unsaubere Geschäfte verwickelt hat, reagiert auf dessen Ableben mehr als erleichtert. Während Manne und Theo sicher sind, dass hier die Lösung des Falls liegt, konzentriert sich Hauptkommissar Schickl immer stärker auf den dubiosen Ralf von Waldow. Ohne irgendwelche Beweise oder Indizien lässt sich Schickl auf eine Partie mit dem Meister ein - eine Partie auf Leben und Tod ...
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.