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Mindhunter is the latest sombre addition to what seems like the endless fad for true crime television. With a true crime show almost always on some channel or other, it begs the question: do we actually need yet another examination of the heinous things some people are capable of? However, this one brings something of a twist, as it concentrates on the mind of a serial killer, rather than FBI agents simply catching the crook at the end of a hard day’s work. David Fincher, who is no stranger to the genre, having directed the film Zodiac, produces and partially directs a show dead-set to appeal to true crime fanatics.

The first few episodes conjure the muted atmosphere of the 1970s, still dealing with the horrors of Vietnam and Charlie Manson. Based on the infamous psychology book of the same name, the show primarily focuses on the characters of Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany), two agents who venture into an early study of criminal profiling by interviewing serial killers to capture their thoughts to apply to current cases.

As the series progresses, it’s the eerie nature of Groff’s character that proves most compelling. Before watching, I wasn’t sure if I could shake off the image of his time as Jesse in Glee, but he instead channels a boyishness which involves following rules while regularly pushing against them.  Much of the suspense stems from Holden, particularly in his interviews with serial killer Ed Kemper. Holden constantly pushes the boundaries of his conversation and relationships with these killers, which are deliberately designed to make the audience utterly disgusted and uncomfortable. This adds to a feeling that it’s more than just a study to Holden, as the murders consume his relationship with his girlfriend, Debbie (Hannah Gross).

With a clear focus on the discussion of the human psyche, it offers a fresh twist that will suit cynical true crime fans and those who would watch anything with blood involved. With another season in the works, I think Mindhunter will find itself in the realm of credible true crime shows.