Elisabeth Moss captivates again in Top of the Lake, a thrilling crime drama centering on a missing pregnant girl that has been acclaimed as even more gripping than The Handmaid’s Tale. Streaming now on U, the series invites viewers into a dark and atmospheric tale of investigation and self-discovery.
- Elisabeth Moss plays a compelling detective role.
- Series explores a haunting missing person case.
- Two seasons available for streaming now.
What happened
Top of the Lake first aired in 2013 and introduces us to detective Robin Griffin, played by Elisabeth Moss, who returns to her isolated hometown in New Zealand. She takes on the case of Tui Mitcham, a 12-year-old girl who is pregnant and has gone missing. As Robin investigates, she uncovers complex relationships within the local drug-ridden community and battles with her personal history.
The story expands in a second series, Top of the Lake: China Girl, which moves the setting to Sydney, Australia, four years later. Here, Robin faces new challenges as she investigates the discovery of an Asian girl’s body on a beach, while navigating her emotional struggles and a troubled past, continuing the show's intense and atmospheric tone.
Why it feels good
The series combines suspenseful crime storytelling with strong feminist themes, wrapped in a mysterious and emotional journey. Elisabeth Moss’s portrayal of Robin Griffin received critical acclaim, earning her prestigious awards including a Golden Globe, which speaks to the depth and strength she brings to the role.
Beyond the thrilling plot, viewers are drawn into the moody, remote settings and the richly developed characters that deliver more than just a crime drama. It’s a show about confronting dark realities and personal demons, resonating on emotional and psychological levels that elevate it above typical genre fare.
What to enjoy or watch next
Both seasons of Top of the Lake are currently available to stream on the U platform, making it a perfect binge for fans of intense dramas and mysteries. The first season focuses on the gripping missing person case and the eerie local community, while the sequel takes the story to new geographical and emotional terrain in Australia.
For viewers looking for similarly impactful shows starring Elisabeth Moss, revisiting her roles in The Handmaid’s Tale or Shining Girls offers more of her nuanced performances. Meanwhile, crime drama enthusiasts might also appreciate the atmospheric storytelling combined with deep character studies, setting Top of the Lake apart as a standout choice.