Fog and Crimes (English Subtitled)

Fog and Crimes is a captivating Italian crime drama that follows the intriguing life and investigations of Chief Police Inspector Franco Soneri. Set in the northern Italian region of Ferrara, a city known for its ancient palaces, broad streets and cobbled alleyways, the series portrays a unique blend of chilling crimes, ingenious investigations and profound human emotions.

The series initially started in 2005, and since then, its engrossing storylines and charismatic performances have managed to attract a significant number of viewers. It is produced by Radiotelevisione italiana (RAI), in collaboration with MHz Networks, and distributed internationally with English subtitles.

At the core of the series is the intriguing character of Franco Soneri, portrayed with commendable finesse by the Italian actor, Luca Barbareschi. Inspector Soneri is a man of unwavering commitment to justice, his gritty personality and relentless investigative acumen making him instrumental in solving the myriad of complex cases that come his way. He is a tormented character, known for solemness and single-mindedness in his work, his dedication often tangling him in a net of complicated personal relationships.

The show's creators successfully sketch an almost haunting ambiance around the city of Ferrara, a key character in its own right. The foggy townscape, the simmering Po river and mist-covered streets wrapped in an eerie silence add a new layer of mystique to the series' name, Fog and Crimes. They are more than mere backgrounds; the foggy environment, desolate locations and the achingly melancholic atmosphere play an integral role in setting the curtain for Soneri's investigations.

Each episode of Fog and Crimes adds a new layer of complexity with distinctive criminal cases. They range from vicious homicides to child abduction, from sinister drug trafficking to tangled political scams. Though the narrative pace may be slower than typical American thrillers, the gradual unraveling of plot-lines keeps audiences hooked to every frame, every dialogue. Here, criminal investigations are not solely about revealing the perpetrators but are a methodical journey into the world of psychological intrigue and human emotions.

What sets Fog and Crimes apart from its contemporaries is the unique lens through which it delves into the urban growth pangs of Ferrara. The transformation of the rural landscape into an expanding city and its impact on the city's socio-economic fabric forms an integral part of the narrative. Soneri, with his intricate knowledge of Ferrara, often wanders through the maze of the cityscape and countryside, drawing out connections that help him piece together the puzzle of his investigations.

Peppered with the elements of suspense and mystery, the series never shies away from diving deep into the murky waters of human psychology and relationships. Soneri's tumultuous relationship with his ex-girlfriend, Angela Cornelio (Natasha Stefanenko), the coroner, often becomes pivotal to the plot, highlighting the complexities of personal dynamics in official environments. Their past relations, coupled with their professional interactions, lead to emotionally charged scenes that add more depth to the series.

Another crucial character in the series is Juana, Soneri’s assistant, performed compellingly by Giuseppe Antignati. Juana’s youthful exuberance and Soneri’s mature intensity strike a breathtaking balance, bringing a refreshing twist to their professional life and the investigations they take.

Widely appreciated for its captivating cinematography depicting the cultural landscapes of Ferrara and its nearby towns, Fog and Crimes stands out in its genre. The show tastefully utilizes the power of visuals in storytelling, with the series’ remarkable locations becoming as gripping as its narratives.

In its run of nearly four seasons, Fog and Crimes manages to build a unique blend of crime, drama, and psychological thriller. Each episode brings not just a new mystery but also a new slice of life in Ferrara.

Whether it's the intricate weaving of plot lines, meticulous character development, or the intriguing use of locations, Fog and Crimes keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, making the series a tour de force in crime-drama television. It is an engrossing show that skillfully combines chilling mysteries with profound human emotions and stark realities of modern urban landscapes. For those who appreciate intricate narratives, compelling performances and mesmerising locations, Fog and Crimes serves as a thrilling immersion into the world of international crime dramas.