Paris (English subtitled)

Paris is a gripping, dramatic series offered by MHz Networks with English subtitles and was first aired in 2015. This French-made, six-part television series, created by Virginie Brac, plunges viewers deep into the underbelly of the iconic city of Paris, focusing on its intricate web of politics, crime, and social unrest. Taking the magnificent, romantic ambiance of Paris and flipping it upside down, the series deliberately bypasses the city's sparkling veneer to reveal a more raw, unfiltered version of the famed metropolis that has been often overlooked in the mainstream fiction.

At the heart of the show is the complex and slightly mysterious protagonist, Alex, played by the talented, award-winning Paris-born actor Jérémie Renier. Alex, a maverick cop working in the night shift, is generally seen engaging in high-stakes operations, often putting his life on the line. His complicated history, high-level decision-making, and personal demons add an emotional depth to the character that resonates deeply with the audience as the series progresses.

Aside from the primary police narrative, Paris also sheds light on the political labyrinth of the city. The chain-smoking Catherine Parizot, brilliantly brought to life by Émilie Dequenne, is heavily involved in the political system and brilliantly displays the fragile tightrope politicians walk between personal desires and the greater good. These intricate political sub-plots lend an intellectual dimension to the show, raising philosophical questions about governance, leadership, and human nature.

One of the most striking features of Paris is its unique storytelling structure. Each episode unfolds over the course of one night, revealing various intertwined stories that keep the audience captivated. Whether it's a homeless man trying to survive the cold Parisian night, a police officer walking a guilt-ridden path, or a politician battling a crisis overnight, the series fantastically captures the distinct struggles of each character against the backdrop of one night in Paris.

Complementing the narrative is the seemingly mundane yet incredibly effective portrayal of Paris. Unlike the usual romantic clichés of the city, this series uses beautifully dark and gritty portrayals to exhibit the lesser-seen yet equally engaging sides of Paris. The atmospheric narrow lanes, the dimly lit bistros, and the shadowy figures of the night reveal a Paris that is compelling in its edginess, offering viewers a genuine taste of the city's undercurrents.

The supporting cast of the series, which includes Nina Meurisse, Hubert Koundé, and Aurélien Wiik, plays an equally vital role in creating an immersive experience for the audience. Each character, whether a seasoned detective, a struggling immigrant, or an opportunistic politician, contributes a unique flavor to the narrative, creating a tapestry of human emotions and intricate drama.

Another commendable aspect of the series is its exploration of societal issues. From homelessness to immigration, corruption to political deceit, the series touches upon various themes that challenge the status quo, making it more than just a crime drama. Not shying away from the stark realities of the city, the show uses these storylines as a platform to provoke thought and conversations about the society in which we live.

The series is helmed by the remarkable director Gilles Bannier, who works his magic with the graphic elements in each scene, further enhancing the stark realism of this multi-layered drama. He uses the cinematography to his advantage, taking viewers through the cityscape of Paris into the depth of each character's intertwined life, delivering a unique viewing experience that leaves lasting impressions.

Icelandic composer duo Einar Orn Benediktsson and Petur Jonsson provide the music for the series, their haunting melodies and noir-ish tunes perfectly echoing the somber, charged atmosphere of the series. The music deftly underscores the emotional stakes at play and harnesses the mesmerizing appeal of the Parisian nightscape.

In conclusion, Paris is a smart, well-crafted, and compelling drama series that dares to wander off the beaten path. Seamlessly blending intense crime, gritty realism, and potent political narrative – all set within the vibrant yet shadowy city of Paris – this series leaves viewers tantalizingly engrossed and thirsting for more. The English-subtitled series from MHz Networks is sure to captivate lovers of European drama, crime procedurals, and anyone looking for complex, character-driven storytelling.