French crime dramas: A new wave of light-hearted intrigue
The rise of French crime dramas
Move over Scandinoir, because French producers are redefining the crime genre with a unique twist. Beloved at home and gaining traction abroad, a new wave of audience-inclusive procedurals is making significant inroads in the international market. This trend, fueled by the earlier success of long-running series like Candice Renoir and propelled to new heights by hits like HPI and Tandem, has given birth to what is now known as the “light crime” genre.
The charm of light crime
“The genre skillfully blends criminal investigations with everyday moments, creating a balance between mystery and the light, family tone,” says Mediawan Rights executive Randall Broman. This blend of intrigue and humor has made French producers leading players in the genre. Viewers are increasingly drawn to lighter, more reassuring content that captivates without excessive violence.
The success of HPI
The megahit HPI delivered 11 million viewers at home and has been sold to over 110 territories. The U.S. remake is set to premiere soon on ABC and Hulu, showcasing the genre’s potential in new markets like the U.S., Latin America, and Japan, alongside established territories in Europe.
New entries in the genre
As Mediawan Rights rolls out the besties-turned-partners cop comedy Tom & Lola, Newen Connect is launching Carpe Diem, a sunny dramedy about a lawyer who defends the innocent after spending 17 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. The lead character, played by Samuel Le Bihan, embodies resilience and optimism, making the show a refreshing addition to the genre.
Character-driven narratives
“Viewers aren’t looking for perfect heroes anymore,” says Newen Connect CCO Leona Connell. “Audiences are looking for characters with whom they can identify. Having a flaws-and-all lead who can manage their own family and life while doing their job is a good reflection of today’s society.”
The appeal to female viewers
With female viewers aged 19 to 49 as the core demographic, the genre’s international success is partly due to its scheduling flexibility. Light crime dramas can thrive in both daytime and primetime slots, and their strong procedural backbone keeps episodes evergreen on streaming platforms.
The role of location
Location plays a significant role in the appeal of these shows. Titles like Tom & Lola and Carpe Diem take full advantage of the South of France’s natural beauty. “The south offers exceptional natural light,” says Broman. “This makes it possible to shoot almost all year round, which is crucial for the production of a 12-episode season. It helps us stand out on the international market by offering authentic and varied settings, far removed from the big cities often represented in American series.”
The allure of scenic backdrops
“You can do extremely well with a blue sky and a charismatic lead,” says Connell. “Audiences want to have fun and be entertained, and quite often a scenic backdrop helps you get away from everyday life.”
Personal reflections
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, it’s fascinating to see how French producers are carving out a niche in the crime genre. The blend of light-hearted moments with intriguing plots offers a refreshing alternative to the often dark and gritty crime dramas we’re used to. The success of shows like HPI and Tandem demonstrates that there’s a significant audience for this type of content, both in France and internationally.
The focus on character-driven narratives and relatable heroes adds depth to these shows, making them more than just procedural dramas. They reflect the complexities of modern life, offering viewers a chance to see themselves in the characters on screen. This relatability, combined with the stunning backdrops of the South of France, makes these shows a joy to watch.
In a world where we often seek escapism through entertainment, the light crime genre offers a perfect blend of mystery, humor, and beautiful scenery. It’s a genre that invites viewers to relax, enjoy, and perhaps see the lighter side of crime-solving.
For those interested in exploring this genre further, I highly recommend checking out the trailers and information pages for Candice Renoir, HPI, Tandem, Tom & Lola, and Carpe Diem. These shows offer a delightful mix of intrigue and light-hearted fun, making them a must-watch for any TV series enthusiast.