Sablja

A series with a lot of potential but ultimately failed to meet expectations. It could have been an incredibly important show, but instead, it ended up being just an ordinary series, similar to other productions by Radio Television of Serbia.

After an intriguing start, the story completely shifts towards imaginary tales of fictional characters.

This was a missed opportunity to portray real events, which are far more interesting.

So, you're left entirely at the mercy of the creators of the show, watching their made-up stories and characters. In my opinion, the storyline they came up with is below average.

Personally, I don't enjoy other series of a similar style produced by Radio Television of Serbia either. If you like Juzni vetar or Klan, then this might be the series for you. I, however, was expecting something more serious.

At the beginning, I was hooked. The cinematography is good, there is some good acting, I like how Dragan Micanovic delivers the role of Zoran Djindjic.

I have also watched an interview with the directors, where they have explained bringing in the characters which don't exist in real life. They have hyped the show nicely, so I decided to give it a shot.

My first negative remark - the wrong choice of actor for the role of Legija. There is a lack of any physical resemblance, which could even be okay - if the tone of voice, mannerisms and the attitude were even remotely similar to the real-life Legija. This is not the case.

Then, the creators are also trying to send a message about Serbia's democratically elected and one of the most progressive politicians being murdered by the mafia - but the show is government funded. And the government is run by - well... Guess who. The mafia remaining even after the 'Sabre'.

Some parts of history are ignored on purpose, since the creators didn't want to make a fuss or get a lawsuit, others maybe because the Serbian national tv wouldn't really want to show them.

The last straw was a sudden change of character with one of the main characters - Boris, the police inspector. Not to spoil but - he makes a complete, nonsensical 180 near the end of the show, without enough previous motivation.

I have expected a lot from the show, and I have not been dissapointed by the acting, by the scenery and production (clearly a lot of money was put into this). However - the writing and parts of the casting, as well as the obvious censorship has dissapointed me.

Watchable, but wouldn't watch it again.

Despite having some masterful performances (Micanovic, Bandovic, Jasna Djuricic) and few fairly dramatic moments (even to those who've lived through the actual events of the show) - to show doesn't pack a punch is absolutely had to, and by the end of a very short series that feels rather rushed for the scope of the events it tries to portray - goes out with a whimper.

Not only do we have very basic 'get it over with' rendering of some of the most dramatic events in modern Serbian (even European) history and especially in the context of the show's title, but half way through the show we have considerably less believable and infinitely less dramatic fictional events taking over the show instead of actual, even fiction worthy stuff that indeed happened.

Fictional characters, amalgamated ones, were supposed the more relatable bridge into the often intertwined but largely foreign worlds of politics, organised crime, police and secret service etc. Instead, by episode 5 they become the whole focus of the story and actual events fall into the barely noticeable background.

To make things worse, out of three protagonists two are irredeemable and third is absolutely dislikable, insufferable even so watching their stories unfold seems like a chore, the most exciting one - the mafia kid, is the shortest out of three.

It came from the intent not to make universally despised mafia nor the politicians the protagonist of the show - an odd choice considering what the show is about, but it turned out to be bad idea and ended up completely moving the show away from the actual title operation 'Sabre' and into some random and generic fictional conspiracy involving equally fictitious and rather unremarkable characters.

In turn it turns a potent show into a generic mediocre crime drama that is never too bold or unpredictable. Simply put - not what we came here for.

Although there is clearly some 'artistic license' taken with certain historical facts around this assassination and the break-up of Yugoslavia, there was enough to make it worth watching. The acting is generally very good and the pace just right. Some characters were truly despicable and hard to digest, but unfortunately, there were, and are still, far too many of these goons still active. Seeing how secret militias and certain armed/criminal groups are able to control the ruling government and institutions is a warning that this is still going on and that similarities with certain current regimes are all too familiar. History does indeed repeat itself time and time again. A sad but true commentary on the state of politics and populations that accept this corrupt and despicable way of existing. Hard to watch at times but some important themes are presented. Solid series overall.

So far, I have mixed feelings.

The production is excellent. The opening credits are impactful, and both the music and cinematography are high quality. Thriller elements are well-executed, intense and keep you engaged.

However, the story lacks courage and a critical edge, like it's been smoothed over to avoid bothering anyone.

I'm disappointed with how Vladimir Beba Popovic was portrayed. Some key figures as well as some of today's prominent politicians aren't even mentioned (yet) and their absence is noticeable.

The "Zemun clan" members aren't well introduced, so unless viewers are underworld experts, it's unclear who's who among the many characters. It's a bit confusing!

There are too many characters who show up briefly, don't get enough development, and then disappear completely. I think the story is too complex and needs more episodes.

Milica Gojkovic and Lazar Tasic deliver outstanding performances. Their acting is refreshingly authentic and deeply sincere. Dubravka Kovjanic is superb! This might be one of her career highlights. Ljubomir Bandovic is simply outstanding. Fedja Stukan is excellent. And yes, he is very handsome! Andjelika Simic is mesmerizing in her miniature and I hope to see more of her.