Paris Police 1905

This was a slow burn in the first two episodes but then took off with deliciously horrible characters and the actors clearly enjoying getting their teeth into it.

Then in episode six, it just speeded to a very unsatisfactory conclusion. Very plot point was hastily addressed with no real tension or sense of reveal - and no final dramatic pinch point when all could be lost. Really deflating considering how much promise it has.

You were left wondering what happened to the chap who was found dead in the Bois de Boulogne in episode one? There was no sense of going back to that crime with a definitive answer. And why were we wasting time with the pathologist trying to invent a solution for traffic problems in Paris - how did that relate to the overall plot?

Paris Police 1900 was an excellent series, mixing fiction with actual history. Paris Police 1905 is equally gripping with great story and compelling performances. Don't expect fast action but the intrigue is intricate. The series is dark and uncompromising but it's not an easy viewing so be warned. There's plenty of blood and mayhem throughout. Corruption, greed and plain stupidity also plays it part. At the same time it's an exciting time in Paris with first women lawyers, motor cars craze and police reforms, which would eventually make the force as we know it today. Although it's not necessary I would strongly recommend to watch the Paris Police 1900 first.

Paris Police 1905 is a gritty and atmospheric crime drama set in Paris at the start of the 20th century. A follow-up to Paris Police 1900, the Series takes place five years later, with detective Antoine Jouin investigating a mysterious death in the Bois de Boulogne, a park known for secret sexual encounters. The man was shot four times, yet some believe it could be a suicide. At the same time, police are cracking down on prostitution, showing the harsh treatment of women and the poor.

The Series does a great job showing the darker side of Paris, both in rich and poor areas. The costumes, old cars, and camera work help bring the time period to life. The acting is strong, with some interesting and strange characters, like Meg Steinheil and her troubled husband. The cinematography, especially in the foggy park scenes, is excellent.

However, the story starts slowly and builds interest, only to fall apart near the end. The final episode rushes through major plot points without giving clear answers or a satisfying conclusion. Viewers may feel disappointed, especially since the mystery from the first episode is never fully solved.

Still, fans of the first series (watch it first, before this) will enjoy seeing familiar characters return. Despite its shortcomings, Paris Police 1905 remains an engaging look at a troubled time in history, with strong visuals and rich detail.

Not as exciting as the first series but just as engrossing. The pace is sub-glacial but something inside you forces you to keep watching. After you've sat through what seems several thousand hours you realise why you've been sucked into this world.... because you are actually in that incredibly different and pretty horrible world. This is the next best thing to a time machine

It doesn't do what so many period dramas do these days - have 21st century people with 21st century attitudes in costume. Of course we can't know for sure but the people in this behave and think like people in 1905 probably did. Violence, corruption, the acceptance of gaping inequality is not criticised like we would now, it's just normal, it's accepted.

There are a couple of reasons you might be put off by this. As I've mentioned, it's not as exciting as the first series and at times gives the impression that nothing happens - is it boring? Maybe it is but somehow fascinating at the same time. The other criticism is that nobody ever smiles - ever! This has to be one of the most miserable things I've ever watched... but there's something special about it which keeps you glued.

So coming off the back of that amazing season 1, I wasn't sure I was going to warm as much to season 2 after the first episode. Season 2 starts slower but then revs up and the last few episodes are amongst the show's best. Replacing the political backdrop of season 1's antisemitism, this season zeroes in on a corrupt vice squad and the blackmail of sex workers and their clients. This backdrop provides another gritty context for the human drama to play out between police, politicians, the church and the bourgeoisie. Nearly all of the characters from season 1 have returned 5 years later, and this season continues the excellent script and engaging characterisations as well as that gorgeous cinematography and set design. The oppressive sexual politics of early twentieth century life is on full display and the descent into the corrupt netherworld is a gripping ride! Recommended!