Overspel

In 'The Adulterer', a prosecutor's wife has an affair with a defence lawyer, who just happens to be representing a man her husband is currently prosecuting. The setup sounds cheesy, and is certainly contrived. The best thing about this drama is a credible portrayal of life within a family the foundation of whose wealth is organised crime, albeit on a relatively small scale (think corrupt family business rather than full-blown mafia). It's weakness is the one-dimensionality of many of its characters, particularly the smug prosecutor and his almost-perfect wife. Although some details of plot were nicely developed, I didn't really care how the romantic aspects of the drama worked out, or feel any of the sexual passion supposedly driving the story.

The Italian tv broadcasted the first two series in 2018, but I missed them and binge-watched the series online. I simply loved it: the plot, the characters which are extremely well depicted, every single footage was a masterpiece for the acting and directing. Frantic rhythm, compelling story which shakes your believes leading you to the last episode with constant plot twist. Every single episode was tense and intense. I sympathized with every single character and fell in love with every single scene. I am glad I run into the first episode randomly one late evening.

The name "overspel" (adultery) may a bit misleading. It made me suspect that this was going to be some female-oriented cliché-ridden drama. Nothing could be further from the truth.

There are many characters here all of which are equally important. The plot revolves around their relations with each other. Couwenberg is boss of a construction business, then an accident happens that puts the relationships of everyone in the series under pressure. Step by step the plot moves forward and gets more intricate and intriguing every episode. Adultery is only a small part of the problems emerging for every person in this mess. The characters are completely real and believable six episodes in and not once have I been disturbed by a stupid cliché or unreal irrational actions by the characters. They act as any sane man or woman does in their situation.

With a plot so much based on characters, the acting has to be top-notch, and I'm delighted to say that it absolutely is. Rarely have I seen such strong performances from Dutch actors. Add in the brilliant directing and grim cinematography and you've got a series that gets more compelling with every scene. The 6th and latest episode was the absolute highpoint for me. It ended with a music compilation lasting many minutes on Deep Purple's Child in Time and was absolutely masterly executed. One of the best directed pieces I've ever seen.

Overspel is gripping, compelling, well written, wonderfully acted, even better directed, and fit for every single audience, even kids if they're into this sort of thing. Perhaps watching the full season with the entire family at Christmas is a perfect family bonding activity for many.

Just been able to catch this in NZ. Great drama, great acting and complex story. Very stylish production and brilliant characters, every one a gem. Subtitles very eay to read and follow. After binge watching series 1 have to ration series 2 and 3 as I don't want it to finish. Definite recommend to fans of good European drama.

I really loved this series . I loved the story lines loved the cast nothing about this series I didn't love . The only thing I can say negative was why did they get rid of it after 3 seasons I have seen horrible shows that lasted 10 years or more . I wish the show could've lasted a few more seasons.