Ein Außenseiter stirbt, ein Dorf schweigt: Als der ehemalige Arzt Dr. Nachreiner tot aus dem Fluss gefischt wird, will niemand etwas gesehen haben. Der idyllische Ort Feldkronach vor den Toren Münchens bereitet sich auf das große Seifenkisten-Rennen vor und scheint sich auch von der SOKO 5113 nicht stören lassen zu wollen. Doch Arthur Bauer (Gerd Silberbauer) und seine Leute glauben nicht daran, dass der verbitterte Sonderling einfach auf dem Weg vom Wirtshaus nach Hause ausgerutscht und ertrunken ist: Nachreiner hatte sich Feinde im Dorf gemacht, seit sein Sohn beim letzten Rennen vor 30 Jahren zu Tode gekommen war - und er jahrelang den Schuldigen suchte.
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.