Watch Public Enemy

Public Enemy is a thrilling Belgian crime drama that first aired on Sundance Now in 2016. It tells the story of a seasoned investigator, Chloé Muller, who is called upon to solve a string of eerily similar child murders that have been committed over the course of several years. The perpetrator, a high-profile criminal named Guy Béranger, has just been released from prison and is living in a halfway house on the outskirts of the town where the murders have been occurring. Despite being watched closely by the authorities, suspicion quickly falls on Béranger, and Muller is tasked with uncovering the truth about what really happened.

The show is set in a small, peaceful town in the midst of a stunning forest landscape, which provides a sharp contrast to the dark events that are unfolding. Muller, who is played by Belgian actress Stéphanie Blanchoud, is a strong, determined and complex character who is haunted by her own traumatic past. Her dogged pursuit of the truth brings her into conflict with the townspeople who are afraid of the killer in their midst as well as her own colleagues who doubt her theories.

As Muller delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of lies and secrets that have been hidden for years, and it soon becomes clear that the crimes are connected to a larger conspiracy involving some of the town's most influential citizens. The tension builds as Muller uncovers more evidence against Béranger, and the question of his guilt or innocence becomes increasingly murky.

One of the most compelling aspects of Public Enemy is its intricate plot, which keeps the viewer guessing until the very end. The show's creators, Antoine Bours and Frédéric Castadot, use flashbacks and multiple perspectives to reveal key information about the characters and events, making it difficult to predict the outcome. The eerie, atmospheric cinematography and haunting score also contribute to the show's dark and unsettling tone.

The show's cast is exceptional, with Blanchoud's nuanced portrayal of Muller being a standout performance, as well as the chilling and enigmatic Jacques Brel. The supporting cast includes well-known Belgian actors such as Angelo Bison, who plays Béranger, and Jean-Jacques Rausin, who stars as the town's mayor.

Public Enemy has been lauded by critics for its gripping storytelling, compelling characters and atmospheric setting. It has also been noted for its exploration of complex ethical and moral issues, such as the death penalty, mental illness and corruption. The show has been compared to other popular international crime dramas such as The Killing and Broadchurch, but many have noted that the Belgian setting, with its unique blend of French and Flemish cultures, gives it a distinctive flavor.

Public Enemy ran for two seasons on Sundance Now, ending in 2023. The show's creators have not announced plans for further episodes, but the open-ended conclusion leaves room for the possibility of future installments. The show's popularity, both in its home country of Belgium and abroad, has led to a surge in interest in Belgian crime fiction, and Public Enemy has been credited with bringing attention to the country's rich literary tradition in the genre.

In conclusion, Public Enemy is a gripping and thought-provoking crime drama that explores themes of violence, justice and morality in a small town setting. Its complex characters, intricate plot and eerie atmosphere make it a must-watch for fans of the genre, and its critical acclaim is well-deserved. Fans of international crime dramas and thrillers will find much to enjoy in this thrilling series.

Public Enemy is a series that ran for 2 seasons (20 episodes) between May 1, 2016 and on Sundance Now