Maltese - Il romanzo del commissario

The acting and the plot development are really good as mentioned in other reviews. However, what really sets this apart from other shows is the settings they have used, the filters that bring out a wide Mediterranean palette and the overall gorgeous cinematography. It's a TV show, but it's been shot as if it was being put on a cinema screen. The opening credits (superbly soundtracked by a sub-house theme tune from Ralf Hildenbeutel) are a good collection of the quality of the cinematography on play. The Sicilian landscape and architecture become practically the main character of the show.

The plot gets quite complex over the first several episodes before straightening out, but it also works somewhat as a mood piece, where you can just soak into the setting.

'Gomorra' is the Italian equivalent to 'The Wire', a drama that explores the entire basis of a crimilaised society from top to bottom. 'Maltese: The Mafia Detective' was conceived by some of the same people, but it's a different sort of story, focused on a single heroic protagonist, featuring a mystery to be unravelled, and set in beautiful Sicily (it's true, 'Gomorra' is set in beautiful Naples, but that show offers a very unattractive view of its host city). But if you were to think that 'Maltese' might be, say, a clone of 'Inspector Montalbano' (a fun but essentially lightweight series), you'd be mistaken. It's well-acted, immaculately shot and scored, and has a historical setting (the 1970s) while still feeling of contemporary relevance; while the mafia-themed plot is sufficiently complex to carry eight episodes, yet without descending into ridiculouslness. The ending is both surprising and appropriate. If 'Gomorra' has an operatic feel at times, 'Maltese' is more softly poetic; but still very good

A bit slow but atmospheric and believable. Fairly gritty. I watched 8 episodes, whilst each actor appears to only have 4 in their biography. Am assuming that there are plenty of loose ends to tie up for another series!

Lots of Alfa Romeoporn lol Some loose ends in the plot. Good acting.

The style and atmosphere of the mid seventies along with the hippies and mo's is just amazing. I feel like I've missed out somewhere! Yes long smoking shots and Fiat/Alfa porn. The town looks a reck but you have to hand it to the Italians, they do it in style!!! Well worth a see.