Pank

I am usually very critical with Estonian production but this series is something that I would genuinely be proud of. Yes, it is a bit slow and artsy at times (like most stuff from around here) but unlike many films and series, this is definitely worth giving a look.

It is based on a true story and using real life people as prototypes. It consists of 10 episodes that take place over the span of some 15 years. The action may slow down a little somewhere in the middle of the run but the series finishes strong and has great soundtrack to back up the visuals. Spoken languages include: Estonian, English, Swedish, Finnish etc.

This is neither good nor bad. Its very much in between, so the best thing to say is that it leaves you quite indifferent. There was endless trumpeting and media coverage as the series was filmed and aired, but sadly it failed on so many levels. I watched it for the actors, but sometimes their lines are awkward and the plot is just plain boring. This series very badly wants to be something that it's not.

Even though there are few moments where the script or acting fails a bit this is very unique story in world of TV series. The brief history of Estonia independence during past 20-30 years offers interesting environment for storytelling in world of finance and patriotism. Characters feel real and they develop throughout the series.

In the context of Estonian television series, this is a masterpiece. But in the context of the world, it is bad.. it is really bad. Pank tries so hard to be something special and excellent, borrowing everything from top movies and series to the extent that it has no personality of its own. If that alone isn't bad enough the acting will surely make you feel uncomfortable. In times when they want you to feel sadness, you cant help yourself at laughing... that bad. Altogether Pank wants to be compared with the best and in that comparison they fail to meet expectations. I waisted my time.

It's a really great visualization of what banking in 90's and 2000's was like in Estonia. A bit artsy but no too much.