This is a recommendation for an excellent French-language drama series, currently being shown here on BBC 4, with all episodes available free on i-player.
It is set around some real events in France at the turn of the century, particularly the Dreyfus affair, and the rise of far-right antisemitic parties at the time. The police force is outdated and corrupt, but is slowly being forced into the modern age.
Amazingly authentic sets and costumes give a real feel of the period, and committed performances by the cast ensure that each character is completely believable.
Some parts are very violent, and there are scenes involving sexual content, and drug use. But it never feels salacious, or exploitative.
If you don’t mind subtitles, this is top-notch Saturday evening television well worth watching.
(For readers outside the UK, I have no idea if this is being shown elsewhere at the moment.)
Here is an official trailer, with subtitles in Englsh.
I’ve been watching this
LikeLiked by 1 person
Do you like it? I caught up with the most recent episode last night, and still love this series. The Commissioner is a great character! 🙂
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes it’s good
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for recommending, Pete! I love BBC for their great series too. xx Michael
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is really good. I hope you can get it in Germany.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on OPENED HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve also been watching this, Pete. I’ve found it a bit hard going at times, more because of the content, but I can’t fault the production values or the acting, so I will definitely watch it to its conclusion. Cheers, Jon.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It has powerful themes, particularly the rabid antisemitism. I recommended it to a Jewish friend in London, and he found it distressing to watch. But I am completely invested in the main characters, and think it is so well done, I am hoping it becomes a long-running series. It is one of the most expensive TV series ever made in France, and that shows in every scene.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLike
I love subtitles because I enjoy hearing other languages and seeing other countries. I have recorded this, but haven’t started watching. I know nothing about that period in Paris so thanks for the recommendation.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I hope you enjoy it as much as I do, Janet.
I always watch original language versions with subtitles as I hate dubbing.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLike
Thanks for the recommendation. Warmest regards, Theo
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think it is only available on DVD in America. But it is very good! 🙂
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLike
Funny that I’ve never come across this. Looks interesting, I’ll certainly look it up. Thanks, Pete!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have only seen four episodes (of 8) so far. I don’t binge-watch, so wait each week for it to come on. It’s full of atmosphere, Marina.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Looks good, I’ll bear it in mind and put it on our list! BTW keep meaning to recommend to you a new Dutch movie called The Forgotten Battle- it’s really top notch. On Netflix.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I think this will be on i-player for a while yet.
Thanks for the link about the war film, it looks good!
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Our expectations were not too high but were surpassed!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think there are only two French films in my DVD collection that feature French subtitles. I understand French, but movie characters sometimes speak a bit too fast for me. So I highly appreciate French subtitles when watching a French film. I often converse with my songwriting partner in French during Zoom sessions. Occasionally, I’ll catch a France 24 live newscast. I enjoy a number of YouTube language videos like French Mornings with Elisa, and also frequently watch other videos like Solange te parle. As for Paris Police 1900, I’d love to watch it, but I wonder if it will be made available with French subtitles. When I don’t understand a foreign language, as was the case when watching Train to Busan (S. Korea) recently, I have no problem viewing the images and reading subtitles simultaneously. But when watching a French film with English subtitles, my brain is torn between listening and reading while watching the images unfold on the screen, (Just for the record, I usually engage subtitles on English language films. What’s good for the French goose is good for the English gander.)
LikeLiked by 2 people
I would imagine the DVD might allow settings for subtitles in French. (For deaf people) I don’t know that for sure though.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
THanx for the review…sounds like on I might enjoy…I know Sue will chuq
LikeLiked by 2 people
If you can cope with the subtitles, it is beautifully done. Available in America on DVD from Amazon.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
THanx for the heads up….I will let Sue know….much appreciated chuq
LikeLiked by 1 person
Looks good, Pete and I like to try to listen to the French although normally they speak too quickly for me to keep up. Was it you that spoke about the other great series Spiral? I loved it. Hope we can get this one here soon.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes, I am a huge fan of Spiral. This new series is available on DVD from Amazon US, Carolyn.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like it’s right up my alley, Pete. I don’t think I get with my subscription but I’ll look for it.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It may eventually arrive on the BBC American service, and is also available on DVD from Amazon.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
this sounds great, and hope i can get this channel –
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is also apparently available on Canal+ and Studiocanal, Beth. (According to Variety magazine in America.)
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person