De Twaalf (2019-2023)

We make a lot of bad TV in Flanders, but we know something about making series. After Beau Séjour, Tabula Rasa and [ url=https://www.tvmeter.nl/show/2519]The Day[/url] belongs The Twelve nicely in line At home.

"The Twelve" not only goes in search of the truth behind two murders, but mainly tells the story of the people who have to judge, and takes his time to do so. A lot of work has gone into writing the dialogues and fleshing out the characters. Perhaps it sometimes goes a bit too deeply into the personal backgrounds of the jury members, but that is precisely the starting point. In addition to the lawsuit, which is currently their temporary full-time occupation, their lives continue as usual...

The testimonials were captivating and well acted. Not everyone was convincing, but that is not to be expected with such an extensive cast. This time the feathers are absolutely for Josse De Pauw. Superb actor who is often forgotten.

I'm also glad that the VRT is making an effort to put the whole series online right away. This way we can watch the series in one go and that makes it a bit easier to follow this story carefully.

Translated from Dutch · View original

This court drama builds on the tradition of Accused Stand Up and Hof van Assisen, but extends that fact by also following a number of jurors and relatives outside the court. The result is an interweaving of three story strands: the assize case, the private lives and the flashbacks.

Each episode follows the same pattern. The titles serve as the first names of one or two witnesses who have their turn; in the last episode it is the first names of the two victims. The central part is set in court, with witnesses who may or may not be reliable, lawyers' rhetoric and the deliberations of the jury. The framework underpins the characters with their diverse characters and problems. Each episode ends with a short, revealing flashback. The real denouement comes after the verdict, five minutes before the end of the last episode. It takes attention to follow all the storylines and directions.

Josse De Pauw as a cunning, experienced defender with his wide, white beard reminds of lawyer Piet Van Eeckhaut. There are many beautiful roles, including for Charlotte De Bruyne, Johan Heldenbergh and the two Maaikes, but also for a lot of lesser-known actors. It's a good example of an ensemble cast.

The content raises questions about the functioning of the judiciary and the police. Is a people's jury better and more democratic than three professional judges? Deontological errors are discussed. The police come out the worst, because a more thorough search of Frie's house could have provided crucial material evidence. It's a realistic crime drama with strong dialogues and a lot of attention to the psychological side.

Translated from Dutch · View original