Possessions

First premiered on Canal+ in France in mid-September 2020, Possessions is a dramatic thriller that carries international priority with its multilayered narrative and suspenseful appeal. While the show is rooted in genre tropes, it cleverly evolves into a nuanced exploration of love, trust, identity, and the redefining of reality.

Possessions opens up in the chaotic landscape of modern-day Israel, where viewers follow the life of a young French expatriate named Natalie, played by the phenomenal Nadia Tereszkiewicz. She's married to an Israeli man, and they appear to be living a simple, content life; however, an unexpected event throws her life into a turbulent spin. Natalie becomes embroiled in a gruesome murder case as the prime suspect, portending an imminent descent into a world of suspicion, secrets, and psychological subversion.

Quick to step into Natalie's bleak world is a French diplomat Karim, portrayed by Reda Kateb. His original role was to assist French nationals who find themselves in difficult or extraordinary circumstances while abroad. However, his involvement with Natalie's case soon becomes more complex than he anticipated. At this point, viewers watch as Karim delves into a dangerous investigation that proves to be both unsettling and captivating. He embarks on a mission to unveil the truth behind the murder, but the ambiguity around Natalie's character constantly challenges his perceptions about guilt and innocence.

Possessions explores the concept of estrangement in foreign lands where cultural barriers amplify the feelings of isolation and disconnection. Trapped in a foreign environment and entwined in an intricate murder investigation, Natalie grapples with language barriers and cultural differences while trying to assert her innocence and grasp the reality surrounding her. This aspect is expertly explored, with Natalie's paranoia gradually amplifying with each passing event, adding another layer to the complexity of her character.

Meanwhile, Karim’s determined pursuit of justice takes him on a path heading into the obscure depths of his own past. As morally grounded as he may seem, he's not wholly the detached, dutiful diplomat that he appears to be, which results in stunning revelations about his character. Kateb’s portrayal of Karim is compelling and charged, underscoring his struggle with internal conflicts and hidden truths.

The show cleverly intersperses this central narrative with fascinating sub-plots and individual stories of other characters residing within the same universe. Each episode peels back layers of each character's life, revealing astonishing revelations, making Possessions a narrative ensemble rich with intrigue.

The series' unique approach to storytelling consistently keeps viewers at the edge of their seat. It successfully sidesteps the predictable paths often associated with the thriller genre, opting instead for a denser, multi-faceted exploration of the human psyche and the manifestations of guilt and innocence. The result is a thrilling exploration into psychological landscapes that are as thrilling as they are deep.

Possessions shines further with its exceptional cast ensemble. Nadia Tereszkiewicz’s performances as Natalie is absolutely stellar. She brilliantly manages to depict Natalie as both a vulnerable victim and a possible cunning manipulator. On the other hand, Reda Kateb delivers an intense performance that singularly captures Karim's relentless pursuit of truth while wrestling with his inner demons. The cast also includes Dominique Valadié and Ariane Ascaride, whose remarkable performances as the older women in Natalie’s life add a vital emotional dimension to the series.

Visually, Possessions is as remarkable as its narrative. The directors use the setting’s stark, desolate landscapes to create a sense of unease and tension that lithe under the narrative. Combined with the crisp cinematography and tight editing, the visual storytelling accentuates the suspense of the unfolding mystery, intensifying the viewer's emotional engagement with each episode.

In conclusion, Possessions is a must-watch for those who appreciate psychological thrillers that delve deeper into character studies and narratives swaying between reality and perception. It skillfully combines suspense, mystery, and character development, creating a captivating series that excels in both form and content. Each episode concludes with more questions than answers, keeping viewers gripped till the end. With its intricate script and powerhouse performances, Possessions exhibits all the hallmarks of an unforgettable thriller, making it an exciting addition to Canal+'s catalogue.