What makes a crime series stand out in a genre where it seems every story has already been told? Why are more international productions choosing Vilnius, with the city’s real location becoming not just backdrops, but an integral part of the story itself? We spoke with Amber Howorth, producer of the new six-part British crime drama ‘An Impossible Way to Die’, produced by Clapperboard Studios for Channel 5, about the creative vision behind the series, working alongside the Lithuanian production services company Paprika Studios, collaborating with the local crew, and the unexpected discoveries that emerged during filming in Vilnius.
– Every project begins with a question. What was the question you wanted ‘An Impossible Way to Die’ to explore before a single page of the script was written?
A. Howorth: – What originally drew everyone to ‘An Impossible Way to Die’ was the idea of taking a detective who is entirely comfortable solving everyday crimes and placing her at the center of a case that challenges everything she knows. Katie Salter isn’t your typical tortured detective – she is grounded, empathetic and deeply committed to both her work and her family. It was exciting to explore whether those qualities, rather than the usual hard-edged instincts, could become the key to solving an extraordinary mystery.
– The title immediately creates a sense of unease. Without revealing too much, what does it mean to you personally?
A. Howorth: – The title immediately presents a mystery that seems impossible to explain, drawing both the characters and the audience into a world where nothing is quiet as it seems. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes much more than solving a crime – it becomes about trust, resilience and how people respond when faced with difficult challenges.
– Crime stories often use murder as a starting point rather than the destination. Beyond the investigation itself, what themes are you most interested in exploring through this series?
A. Howorth: – At its heart, this is a story about people. While the investigation drives the plot, the series also explores themes of family, camaraderie and the important relationships that ultimately shape us.
– There’s no shortage of detective dramas today. At what point did you feel this story had something genuinely new to say?
A. Howorth: – The biggest point of difference is Katie Salter. Crime dramas often center on detectives who are defined by their personal struggles, but Salter is comfortable in her own skin. She’s smart, capable and optimistic, and she’s motivated by a genuine desire to help people. Pairing her with Conway, whose approach is much more single-minded, creates a partnership that evolves in unexpected ways. Combined with a mystery that keeps you guessing, it felt like a fresh take on the genre.
– Vilnius has doubled for many different cities on screen over the years. What made it the right place for An Impossible Way to Die, and has the city offered you something you weren’t expecting?
A. Howorth: – Vilnius offers an incredible combination of visual variety, experienced crews and outstanding production support. It has an atmosphere that really complements the tone of the series, with locations that can feel both familiar and quietly unsettling. The city’s versatility has allowed us to realize the ambition of the scripts, and we’ve been hugely impressed by the professionalism and warmth of everyone we’ve worked with.
– How much does the atmosphere of a real location influence the way you tell a story? Have any places in Vilnius inspired changes to scenes that had already been planned?
A. Howorth: – Real locations always have an impact. Once you’re standing in a space, new opportunities present themselves that simply aren’t obvious during pre-production. There have been moments where a location in Vilnius has inspired a rethink of the way a scene is structured or to make greater use of the environment because it added something unexpected to the storytelling.
– When working on a mystery, how do you balance giving the audience enough clues while resisting the temptation to explain too much?
A. Howorth: – You want audiences to feel like they’re actively solving the mystery alongside the characters, so every clue must feel earned. Equally, you don’t want to reveal too much too early. The best mysteries keep viewers guessing, and that’s something we’re working hard to achieve throughout the series.
– Every production develops its own rhythm once filming begins. Has the series evolved in ways that couldn’t have happened during pre-production?
A. Howorth: – Absolutely. However much you prepare, production is always a collaborative process. Performances develop, locations reveal new possibilities and every department helps to shape the result. Those discoveries are one of the most rewarding parts of making television.
– International productions are collaborative by nature. What has working with the Lithuanian crew Paprika studios brought to this project that you particularly value?
A. Howorth: – The Lithuanian crew have been exceptional. Their expertise, professionalism and collaborative spirit have been invaluable from day one. They’re incredibly resourceful and bring calm confidence to every challenge, which has made the entire production stronger. It’s been a genuine partnership.
– If someone walked onto your set today with no knowledge of the project, what do you think would immediately tell them what kind of series you’re making?
A. Howorth: – I think they’d immediately notice the attention to detail. Whether it’s the production design, the atmosphere of the locations or the way scenes are being crafted, everything is working towards creating a world that feels authentic. It’s a thriller, but it’s one that’s firmly rooted in character.
– Without giving anything away, what are you most excited about the audience to eventually discover about An Impossible Way to Die?
A. Howorth: – I’m excited for audiences to meet Katie Salter. She’s a really refreshing lead character, and Sharon Rooney has brought her to life brilliantly. Of course, I hope viewers enjoy trying to solve the mystery, but I also hope they become invested in relationships and the emotional journey. It’s a thriller with plenty of surprises, but it’s the characters that will stay with you.
– Thank you for the conversation!
