Corp + Anam

Corp + Anam is an enthralling Irish language crime drama television series. Airing from 2011 through 2014 and available on MHz Choice, the show represents a unique blend of suspense, crime, and deep social commentary. Corp + Anam translates to "Body + Soul" in English and this name symbolizes the show's exploration of the complexities of human nature and the implications of personal actions.

The series is set in Ireland, within a society grappling with a multitude of challenges. Built with a cinematic narrative, the show captures the realities of contemporary Irish life with a raw and gritty portrayal of the societal issues it faces. Despite being deeply rooted in local flavor, the themes addressed are universal, making the show accessible and relatable to international audiences.

Directed by Darach Mac Con Iomaire, Corp + Anam revolves around the central character, Cathal Mac Iarnáin. Played by Diarmuid de Faoite, Cathal is a grizzled yet wilful crime correspondent, who uses guerrilla journalistic tactics to uncover the truths behind press releases and police investigations. He navigates through the streets of Ireland, seeking to expose actual realities hidden beneath the official narratives.

Corp + Anam doesn't shy away from addressing societal issues. The show focuses on domestic violence, drug addiction, corruption within organizations, and environmental atrocities, bringing them to the forefront of the discussion. The show applies an investigative lens and showcases these topics via the medium of Cathal’s gritty investigative journalism.

This journalistic perspective is one of the most innovative aspects of the show. The audience gets to feel the tension, the adverse situations, and the danger that Cathal often finds himself in. Through Cathal's eyes, Corp + Anam offers a fresh perspective on crime dramas as the genre is typically dominated by detective or police-driven narratives.

The storytelling in Corp + Anam comes across as simultaneously harrowing and engaging. Heavy subjects are treated with sensitivity, yet the reality and urgency of these issues are not diluted, lending an authentic aura to the entire narrative. The scripts are layered and the character development is enticingly intricate, giving viewers a well-rounded view of each character’s life and challenges.

Another magnetic aspect of Corp + Anam is its casting. Diarmuid de Faoite shines brightly as Cathal Mac Iarnáin, perfectly portraying the character's determination, brusqueness, and vulnerability. The supporting cast, featuring highly credible actors, lends solidity to the ensemble. The solid performances make the show's characters feel real, enhancing the viewer’s emotional connection to them.

Being an Irish show, Corp + Anam is naturally imbued with the cultural elements of Ireland. Beyond the crime and social issues, viewers are exposed to elements of the country's life, language, and traditions. Even though it's entirely in Irish, subtitles are provided, ensuring the viewer understands the narrative without losing the raw essence of regional dialogue that adds to the authenticity of storytelling.

Corp + Anam’s production design is commendable as it beautifully captures the contrasting landscapes of urban and rural Ireland. The cinematography enhances the overall visual atmosphere of the show, transporting you directly to its world. The broody lighting and amorphic camera work reflect the serious tone of the show, adding a layer of depth to it.

The music score of Corp + Anam is integral to its narrative, composed to underscore the depth of the show's narratives. The score, just like the storylines, is emotional, intense, and evocatively Irish.

Overall, Corp + Anam is a compelling watch. It is a hard-hitting drama that is multi-faceted in its approach to storytelling. It showcases real-life issues through an unusual perspective and wraps it all inside a crime genre. With its unique combination of crime, drama, and socio-political commentary, Corp + Anam is an engaging intellectual workout for audiences seeking more than just entertainment from a TV series. For viewers interested in crime dramas with a substantiated storyline or those curious about the Irish culture, Corp + Anam is a must-watch. It promises to take you on an enthralling journey filled with suspense, difficult societal truths, and unforgettable performances.