Rocco Schiavone

Rocco Schiavone is a compelling Italian crime drama series that debuted on PBS Masterpiece in 2016. The show sets itself apart with a unique blend of mystery, crime thriller, and personal drama woven into a detailed character study. The series is an adaptation of the successful novels by Antonio Manzini and has garnered significant attention and praise for its dynamic storytelling and unconventional protagonist.

The story of Rocco Schiavone revolves around its titular character, an unorthodox, grouchy Deputy Police Chief who is unlike any other character in the usual police procedural. Rocco, expertly played by Marco Giallini, is a complex, multifunctional character with a smoker's cough, a vice for marijuana, and a certain disdain for rules and authority. Behind his sunglasses, leather jacket, and gruff exterior lies an individual of deep sensitivity, bound by a strict personal code and a razor sharp intellect. His wry humor and contradictory nature make every episode a study of the character's uniqueness.

For Rocco Schiavone, police work is not just about solving crimes, but also about venturing into the mesh of human relationships, connections, and motivations. He's not just solving crimes, he is unraveling stories. He's an irascible and seemingly indestructible investigator who takes us deep into the secrets of the people and the city itself.

Adding to the emotional complexity of the show is the setting - the snowy, cold, and isolated Aosta, a dramatic shift from Rocco’s beloved and bustling Rome. The stark contrasts between the two cities further amplify the main character's sense of displacement and burgeoning identity crisis. It’s not simply the unsolved crimes that fuel the narrative, but also Rocco's struggle with his new surroundings and his efforts to escape the haunting shadows of his past.

Furthermore, the show manages to bring out brilliantly the stark realities of Rocco's world. Whether it's the deceptively tranquil Alpine backdrop consistently tainted by the ugliness of crime, or the quaint Italian social life regularly disrupted by dark undercurrents, the series continually challenges the audience's expectations. This dichotomy between the serene and the sinister becomes a defining theme throughout the series.

Rocco's team of junior detectives provides a contrasting, yet complementary backdrop for his character. While Rocco can be quite abrasive and seemingly aloof, his relationship with his team reveals a caring mentor who is committed to guiding his subordinates through the treacherous landscape of police work. This chemistry within the team adds another layer of profundity to the narrative, offering elements of camaraderie, rivalry, and growth.

The series is also characterized by a slew of other fascinating characters, each with their unique personalities, motives, and secrets. The complex web of relationships and the multi-layered plot provide viewers with a rich tapestry of events that keep them glued to the screen while they piece together the clues alongside Rocco.

Moreover, the portrayal of Rocco's personal life provides another dimension of interest. His romantic relationships and friendships are as intriguing and mysterious as the crimes he solves, offering viewers a peek into a different side of his persona.

What makes Rocco Schiavone particularly interesting is the unformulaic handling of the crime scene investigation genre peppered with a generous dose of wit, cunning, and sarcasm. Despite his flaws and allure for the unconventional, Rocco's dedication to justice and unwavering pursuit of truth persistently shine through.

Rocco Schiavone is not just a crime drama, but a detailed exploration of a character placed in unusual circumstances. Guided by exemplary performances, sharp writing, and exceptional character development, the show masterfully blends suspense, drama, and personal turbulence. It delivers an unflinching look into the realities of crime, law enforcement, and personal sacrifice, narrated through the darkly fascinating lens of its protagonist.

This is an excellent pick for viewers with a penchant for crime dramas that defy the norms of the genre. Rocco Schiavone breathes new life into the genre and shines with its charismatic protagonist, nuanced storytelling and unforgettable Italian flair, promising a viewing experience that is as unconventional as it is gripping.