I never saw this on any TV channel, but was able (finally) to view the entire 54 episodes thanks to my local library. Initially they only had sets 1 - 6, but then I kept nagging them to get sets 7,8 and 9 and I think they only finally got them all just to get me off their backs! I figured I've done them a favour, as other library customers will hopefully be able to discover this great series and enjoy them as much as I did!
Now, normally I would not go for such a slow-moving series like this, and let alone with French dialogue and all the subtitles. But once you get used to the pace and the understated title role acting of Mr. Cremer's characterization, then it feels great to just settle down and watch how he solves each new mystery. At around 85-95 minutes each episode, the writers have the luxury time to let each story evolve. I have not read any of Mr. Simenon's novels, so I can't comment if any liberties were taken with plots and characters. (I have heard liberties were indeed taken by the Granada (UK) producers with their version which starred Michael Gambon, but as good as that series was, they only made about 12 episodes and were only given about 55 minutes per show). This French version allows so much more time to tell each plot. And like I said, if you get used to the slow pace, it will be fine and definitely worth your viewing time spent.
Mr. Cremer is a very talented actor and while not a household name in North America, I can't imagine a more fitting actor for Maigret. One day, some production company will try to remake them and maybe all of them this time, but it would be hard to find another actor of this calibre to take on the role. Like David Suchet's commitment to Poirot over many years of filming, for an actor to take on Maigret would be an equally demanding assignment. It's no good to make just a few episodes like Granada did--(OK I heard they ran out of production money, and maybe Mr. Gambon didn't want to get stuck for many years either.) But still, Mr. Cremer's commitment must be recognized for the achievement and be forever remembered in TV history's books.
The production values are superb, placing them in the late 50's,mid 60's I am guessing. No intrusive loud music, or dizzying camera movements with equally irritating sound effects. Just plain simple on-film story-telling. Not much on-screen violence or blood, but then the real star of the plots is the solving of Maigret.
I love all the supporting cast (although poor Madame Maigret is only seen once if I recall). But he certainly talks to her a lot on the phone to remind us she exists. But the other actors are great (Lachenal,Christiani,etc.)
I could go on and on, so I will stop here. I don't have a favourite episode, all I can say to other TV mystery lovers out there, is, if you get a chance to see these on TV, or rent them, or whatever, give this series a chance and I'm sure you will feel well rewarded!
Now, normally I would not go for such a slow-moving series like this, and let alone with French dialogue and all the subtitles. But once you get used to the pace and the understated title role acting of Mr. Cremer's characterization, then it feels great to just settle down and watch how he solves each new mystery. At around 85-95 minutes each episode, the writers have the luxury time to let each story evolve. I have not read any of Mr. Simenon's novels, so I can't comment if any liberties were taken with plots and characters. (I have heard liberties were indeed taken by the Granada (UK) producers with their version which starred Michael Gambon, but as good as that series was, they only made about 12 episodes and were only given about 55 minutes per show). This French version allows so much more time to tell each plot. And like I said, if you get used to the slow pace, it will be fine and definitely worth your viewing time spent.
Mr. Cremer is a very talented actor and while not a household name in North America, I can't imagine a more fitting actor for Maigret. One day, some production company will try to remake them and maybe all of them this time, but it would be hard to find another actor of this calibre to take on the role. Like David Suchet's commitment to Poirot over many years of filming, for an actor to take on Maigret would be an equally demanding assignment. It's no good to make just a few episodes like Granada did--(OK I heard they ran out of production money, and maybe Mr. Gambon didn't want to get stuck for many years either.) But still, Mr. Cremer's commitment must be recognized for the achievement and be forever remembered in TV history's books.
The production values are superb, placing them in the late 50's,mid 60's I am guessing. No intrusive loud music, or dizzying camera movements with equally irritating sound effects. Just plain simple on-film story-telling. Not much on-screen violence or blood, but then the real star of the plots is the solving of Maigret.
I love all the supporting cast (although poor Madame Maigret is only seen once if I recall). But he certainly talks to her a lot on the phone to remind us she exists. But the other actors are great (Lachenal,Christiani,etc.)
I could go on and on, so I will stop here. I don't have a favourite episode, all I can say to other TV mystery lovers out there, is, if you get a chance to see these on TV, or rent them, or whatever, give this series a chance and I'm sure you will feel well rewarded!