Although being a fan of Scandi Noir, from time to time, I am eager to widen my horizon and find out what is going on in other (European) countries vis-a-vis crime series. As I liked Belgian Salamander-series, I was referred to Code 37 - and became excited from the very beginning.True, not all episodes are equally interesting and accomplished, sometimes I guessed the wrongdoer's's person and motives too soon, but the general atmosphere, combination of case-by-case and recurrent revenge and mystery and the beautiful panorama of Ghent make all the 3 seasons a whole, to be watched in sequence, not sporadically (at first, I thought that I would stick to Season 1 only, but I was interested to see the final solution which, however, could have been more sophisticated). And the topic of prostitution and related phenomena is depicted in a realistic manner, with far more minuses than pluses - if there is any glamour or wealth involved, then it is fake, concealing lots of serious issues.But the most pleasant component of this series is the characters and cast, even when/if with some clichés and fathomable approaches. To me,Veerle Baetens and Hannah Maes and Gilles De Schryver as Kevin Desmet were the most interesting; the inclusion of several Wat als? actors in supporting roles was also a pleasant diversity - as their parts here were far from amusing or humorous.Thus, a good series, making me willing to visit Ghent again - after several decades. Recommended, unless you are a strong supporter or frequent customer of prostitution...
... View MoreThis is a gripping serial drama with a complex underlying long story arc. Hannah Maes heads a sex crimes unit with what could, at times, be called the three stooges. But, we come to learn how dedicated the team members are to solving these crimes. The introduction of the new lady boss in season 3, I think it is, is a great twist to the ensemble. And, who doesn't like a gal with a pet rabbit? Tough subjects, not slick, but well done with just enough humor to humanize the characters. The story lines are never easy to figure out and Americans may not like the subtitles, but I have no objection. Much better than American TV in my opinion. Highly recommend.
... View MoreI am really enjoying this series and have faithfully watched it weekly. Right now I am at episode 19. I have to say that it is always unexpected, with story lines that keep me thinking, and I like that! I enjoy the main characters and the excellent acting. So often you watch a show were within the first few minutes you know who the murderer is ... if you like that, then, simply said, you may not like this series. If you like a good story that has action, a tough female detective like in crime novels, her team that balances the ugly reality of their work with quirky humor and, yes, even some intrigue, then this may be a series you could really enjoy. Looking for something a bit different? Then I think you may be surprised, as I can only describe it as fresh and original. I definitely think of this series as a gem, and very glad I stumbled across it.
... View MoreThis is the worst crime series I've ever seen. Veerle Baetens is a very bad actress, her specialty is overacting and it seems to work like a virus because all the other actors are infected as well. It is meant to be a very serious, even shocking series about a police unit who specializes in sexual assault cases, but in fact it's just hilarious. The only thing Hannah Maes (Baetens) does is scream all the time. And she tries to look angry all the time because of the demons of her past (the rape of her mother) but it is all so unnatural. I really can't understand how she ever got into the acting business in the first place. This is a typical case of total miscasting. There are plans to sell the series to foreign countries, I hope this will not happen because other countries will mock us for it. It's a must avoid series at all cost. And Veerle, please go do something else with your life. Maybe be a hand model or something, but don't waste your and our time with something you suck at.
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