'Masterpiece' crime drama series on Channel 4 that's perfect for Agatha Christie fans

If you're craving a television mystery that wraps tension, secrets and wintry drama into one bingeworthy package this holiday season, Channel 4's latest drama Stranded might be just what you're looking for. Originally released in Italy in 2023 and now available free to stream in the UK under the Walter Presents banner, the eightepisode series has drawn comparisons to Agatha Christie, but with modern twists that make it feel both familiar and fresh.

Set in a luxurious alpine resort on Christmas Eve, Stranded follows a disparate group of guests whose festive retreat turns into a tense survival situation after an avalanche cuts off power, communications and all escape routes. As snowfall piles up and supplies dwindle, buried secrets and hidden pasts begin to surface, forcing unlikely alliances and dangerous rivalries among the isolated visitors.

Critics and viewers alike have taken note of the series' blend of mystery and character drama.

The Guardian described Stranded as reminiscent of "Agatha Christie, Lost and The White Lotus all at once," praising its intriguing premise and ensemble cast while noting that the multiple narrative threads can sometimes dilute focus.

The series' IMDb synopsis teases the psychological complexity of the story: "Isolation and the gradual depletion of supplies increase the conflicts but give some of the survivors, first and foremost Giovanni and Claudia, murderer and unwitting victim, an unexpected chance of redemption. One question hovers over everything: what really happened outside that valley?"

Reviews from entertainment outlets paint a picture of a stylish, if imperfect, thriller.

One recent critic noted that while Stranded doesn't always deliver on every twist it promises, it nevertheless offers "enough intrigue to keep you engaged" and stands out for its performances, particularly Alessandro Preziosi's turn as the enigmatic Giovanni, a man whose dark history may be his undoing.

With its claustrophobic setting, a ticking clock, and a cast of characters whose secrets slowly unravel, Stranded is being lauded for capturing the essence of Christie's intricate plotting and suspenseful storytelling.

It's the perfect thriller for those looking to combine holiday cosiness with a chilling mystery.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Italian television or simply in search of a new holiday binge, Stranded promises twists, turns, and a snow-covered suspense that will keep viewers guessing until the final scene.