Nicolas Le Floch

The first five or six episodes of Nicolas le Floch were stunningly done. Well written. Well performed, and with realistic settings. Starting with episodes 6 or 7, the stories were uneven. At times they didn't even seem to have been written by the same writers, although two people are given credit for all 12 episodes.

After we suffered though episode 12, we went back and watched the first two episodes again. My partner and I both agree that, among other things, the pacing was much better in the beginning.

We are really sorry that this great series seemed to lose its way as it progressed.

What a gem! The series are based on the books of Jean-François Parot, a French diplomat turned a writer in his retirement. He possesses great knowledge of French history, 18th century, the realms of Louis XV and XVI, and Paris in particular. Storytelling and character development , pretty good from the start, are growing with every new novel. The screen adaptation is done with utmost quality and attention to details. The supporting cast is absolutely perfect, Francois Caron, playing Sartine, is totally delicious. The fact that Jerome Robart, le commissaire Le Floch himself, is not an international megastar is totally inexplicable. The guy has everything - talent, passion, range, charisma, charm, intelligence, all wrapped up in a dashingly handsome package. The series are available on MHZ and totally worth a price of subscription.

This Series dazzles with its authenticity, atmosphere, and ambition. Based on the novels by Jean-François Parot, a historian-turned-writer, it is set in 18th-century Paris during the reigns of Louis XV and XVI. It features richly detailed sets, stunning costumes, and an evocative score that immerses viewers in a world of court intrigue, nascent forensic science, and moral ambiguity.

The early episodes are particularly impressive-tight, well-paced, and brimming with energy. The writing is sharp, the performances strong, and the tone perfectly balanced between historical realism and dramatic flair. Jérôme Robart, as the titular Le Floch, is magnetic: charismatic, intelligent, and convincingly layered. Supporting actors like François Caron (Sartine) add depth and charm, making the ensemble a true delight.

However, the show does falter a bit as it progresses: the storytelling becomes inconsistent, some plots feel disjointed. The pacing slows, and the cohesiveness of the early narrative diminishes. While still visually breathtaking and beautifully acted, the later episodes don't quite match the brilliance of the beginning. The handling of relationships, particularly Le Floch's numerous romantic entanglements, may strike as emotionally detached. Still, the character is portrayed with empathy and complexity, navigating a dangerous world while clinging to his sense of justice.

Ultimately, Nicolas Le Floch remains a rare gem in historical television. Despite uneven episodes, its artistry and performances make it well worth watching, especially for fans of immersive period dramas.

Richly staged and authentic down to local pissoirs on Paris street corners in bewigged and corseted salons. With nascent scientific forensic crime investigators, sword battles, and quirky courtiers. Enjoy.