The role of Marina's mother is being played by a well-known actor

In its debut episodes, IQ 160 has already demonstrated that Croatia’s domestic industry possesses actors and production capabilities capable of competing with more modern series. The show, which premiered on Voyo’s streaming platform, follows a self-reliant mother of three children who secretly has an IQ of 160. When she accidentally solves a case that even seasoned investigators failed to crack, she becomes a police consultant and begins working alongside inspectors. The narrative, though familiar in structure, represents a significant leap forward for Croatian television production, offering a fresh take on the genre and showcasing high-quality acting and direction. The series, titled IQ 160, was adapted from a French-Belgian hit, HPI. Its launch marks a major step for RTL and its streaming platform, Voyo, which has long sought to position itself beyond mere content distribution. Streaming platforms today are not only repositories for reruns and on-demand viewing but are increasingly becoming catalysts for homegrown television production. In Croatia, this shift has been spearheaded by Voyo, which has boldly presented an adaptation of a foreign success, while still maintaining a distinctly local identity. The story centers on a woman who, despite being a housewife and cleaner at a police station, hides her extraordinary intelligence. Her accidental involvement in solving a complex crime leads to her becoming a key figure within the police force. The quality of the acting in IQ 160 is equally impressive. Dajana Čuljak, who plays the lead role of Marina Kapov, delivers a masterful performance. Her portrayal of a highly intelligent yet grounded character is both believable and compelling. Luka Peroš, known internationally for his role as Marseille in La Casa de Papela, shines as Inspector Tomislav Ramljak. His presence adds depth and authenticity to the series, particularly given his global recognition. The supporting cast, including Katarina Madirazze, Ankica Dobrić, and Siniše Popović, further enriches the narrative, contributing to the overall professionalism of the production. Voyo’s approach to promoting IQ 160 has also set a new standard. Rather than simply launching the series on its platform, the company launched a comprehensive campaign, including promotional materials and social media support from the actors themselves. This strategy highlights the growing awareness among producers of the importance of marketing and audience engagement in the digital age. It also signals a broader shift in how Croatian television is positioning itself against international competitors, aiming to produce content that can stand alongside global hits. Meanwhile, other platforms such as Nova TV and Pickbox continue to explore their potential in the streaming space. Nova TV's Nova Plus, despite its efforts, still appears to lag behind in creating content that strongly attracts viewers. The platform continues to offer a mix of existing TV content and occasional international imports, rather than investing heavily in original productions. In contrast, Pickbox offers a curated selection of European series that often go unnoticed by larger streaming services. One such example is the British thriller The Woman Who Killed Her Husband, which provides a gripping psychological mystery suitable for summer relaxation. Netflix, too, has shown how a single name can build an entire television empire. Author Harlan Coben, whose novels have become synonymous with excellent psychological thrillers, has seen his works translated into screen adaptations that consistently draw large audiences. Each of his titles is eagerly anticipated, and each receives substantial viewership, reinforcing Netflix’s dominance in the genre. As the series progresses, fans are eager to see how Marina and Inspector Ramljak navigate the complexities of the latest episode. In the third installment, they investigate the disappearance of two girls, Mije and Tee, following the murder of their father. The investigation reveals a web of family conflicts, care facilities, and business secrets, all of which complicate the search for the truth. Marina’s unique insights and unconventional methods prove invaluable, while Inspector Ramljak relies on traditional investigative techniques. Their collaboration raises questions about whether they will succeed in finding the missing children before it is too late.