Watch Spiral (Japan)
- TV-PG
- 2002
- 1 Season
-
8.5 (6,886)
Spiral, also known as Engrenages in its native French language, is a crime drama series that aired on TV Tokyo from 2005 to 2020. The show follows a team of detectives and lawyers as they investigate and prosecute various criminal cases in Paris, France. One of the main characters of the show is Captain Laure Berthaud, portrayed by Caroline Proust, who leads the Homicide Squad in Paris. Laure is a tough and dedicated detective who often clashes with her superiors and colleagues due to her unorthodox methods. Despite her abrasive personality, she is respected by her team and is known for her skill in solving complex cases.
Another key figure in the series is lawyer Joséphine Karlsson, played by Audrey Fleurot. Josephine is a smart and ambitious attorney who frequently defends the accused in high-profile cases. She is known for her sharp wit and her ability to think on her feet in the courtroom, often using unorthodox methods to get the verdict she wants.
Thierry Godard portrays Lt. Gilles "Gilou" Escoffier, a detective on Laure's team who is known for his laid-back attitude and tendency to bend the rules. Gilou is a loyal friend to Laure, but his impulsive nature often gets him into trouble.
Throughout the show's twelve seasons, the characters are faced with a variety of challenging cases, ranging from drug trafficking to political corruption to serial killings. The investigations often shed light on the darker side of Parisian society and highlight the intricate workings of France's legal system.
One of the central themes of Spiral is the tension between the police and the legal system. The show does not shy away from depicting the flaws in both institutions, showing how corruption and bureaucracy can hinder investigations and court proceedings. This dynamic is particularly evident in the relationship between Laure and Josephine, who often find themselves on opposite sides of the law.
Another key aspect of the show is its portrayal of the personal lives of the characters. Spiral does not shy away from exploring the emotional toll that the characters' jobs take on their personal relationships. From Laure's struggles with alcoholism to Josephine's complicated love life to Gilou's financial problems, the show highlights the human side of the characters and how their personal struggles affect their work.
Spiral has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the justice system and its complex characters. The show has won multiple awards, including the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series in 2015. In addition, the performances of the cast, particularly Caroline Proust and Audrey Fleurot, have been widely praised by critics.
Overall, Spiral is a gripping and intense crime drama that explores the complexities of the justice system and the human toll of investigating and prosecuting crimes. With its realistic portrayal of Parisian society and its compelling characters, the show is a must-watch for fans of the genre.