Nieuwe buren

Great stuff. The 'Swingers' English title isn't really appropriate. There's no 'explicit' swinging until series 1 episode 5, ok? The buildup just draws you in, and draws you in to a soap opera on steroids. I don't know what the industry term is for this kind of series; 'serial drama' is too vague; Megasoap? Soap Epic? Character Sadism-Fest?

There are elements of the soundtrack that remind me of 'Six Feet Under', as the lives of the three protagonist couples become more and more complicated due to their own powerful needs, sins and mistakes. If you saw that series, you'll know that pretty much anything goes. There's drug crime, voyeurism, disabled characters, immigration issues, fundamentalist religion, you name it. Oh, and some humour, thankfully.

The good news is that it's all managed well, script wise., but It's no more about swinging than Breaking Bad was about organic chemistry. Worth your while, especially if you thought 'Brookside' wasn't edgy enough.

Season 4 is really bad. Bad actors en totally onrealistic story.

Involving story with new characters as well as old favourites. Still fresh

Season 4 is totally unwatchable. Bad acting, worse writing. No character development, inconsistent storyline. Waste of time.

Nieuwe buren.. (New Neighbors).. or The Swingers (poor choice).. through two seasons this show retains interest. The cast is solid, with many outstanding performances, and the writing is well up to their abilities. The only negative comment would be that the subtitles in season two are not al all easy to read and keep up with. Outside of that minor flaw, it is a fine overall production. The third season just aired in March, and it's hoped it will soon be made available for viewing.

It's not divulging much to say that quite a few of the characters do not make it through the first and second seasons (killing comes frequently) , as cast credits indicates whose making it through all thirty of the episodes to date. An interesting premise, with much of the allure generated by the lead actor.. she is no less than outstanding. It will be most interesting to see if they are able to sustain it all through another season(s). I'd say don't pass it up. ..