Rural Charm Meets Urban Wit in Unique Series

Read Time:3 Minute, 9 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
Homicide Hills (S01-03) (Mord mit Aussicht)
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Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama
Year Released: 2008-2015, 2023 Kino Lorber & MHz Choice DVD
Runtime: 39 x 45m episodes
Creator(s): Marie Reiners
Cast: Caroline Peters, Bjarne Mädel, Meike Droste, Katharina Wackernagel, Sebastian Schwarz, Jennifer Dickel
Language: German with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: HOMICIDE HILLS effortlessly examines a narrative that's as much about solving crimes as it is about finding laughter in the least expected places, the perfect mix of comedy, crime, and satire all come together. Caroline Peters shines as Sophie Haas, whose journey from urban detective to rural problem-solver engages and allows the series to be just as relatable. With its light-hearted humor seamlessly integrated into suspenseful plotlines, the series offers a refreshing deviation from the typical crime drama.

HOMICIDE HILLS presents a blend of multiple genres, creating a series that includes crime, drama, and comedy. The narrative, spread across three seasons (and now even more), revolves around the stark contrast between city sophistication and rural simplicity. At its heart is Haas, portrayed brilliantly by Peters, whose relocation to the rural village of Hengasch is the catalyst for a series of humorous yet intriguing events.

The series excels in character creation and evolution. Sophie's transition from the hustle and bustle of Köln to the serene Hengasch is portrayed with a balanced mix of humor and depth. Her interactions with her colleagues, particularly the somewhat naive Bärbel and the bumbling Dietmar add charm and relatability to the series. These relationships form the series' backbone, offering viewers a delightful mix of crime-solving and comical banter.

Distinctive for its well-crafted script, HOMICIDE HILLS stands out in the police comedy genre. The writing combines dry wit with quirky scenarios, particularly in the initial episodes, setting a high bar for the series. The standout is that despite its highs and lows, the writing remains consistent throughout the run. The ensemble cast, including notable performances by Bjarne Mädel, Meike Droste, and Petra Kleinert, elevates the series with their dynamic chemistry and impeccable comedic timing.

While HOMICIDE HILLS received acclaim for portraying Sophie's adaptation to rural life, balancing light-hearted moments with a mysterious undertone, the third season tilted more towards comedy, slightly shifting the series' original tone. This shift, while still enjoyable, marked a departure from the series' initial blend of humor and mystery.

In 2022, the series experienced a renaissance with the release of its fourth season and the announcement of a fifth. This revival confirms the series' enduring charm and ability to attract and retain a diverse audience. The series has become known for its accessible and engaging take on the murder mystery genre. Its concise episodes, often running under an hour, offer viewers an easy and enjoyable escape into the world of Hengasch.

HOMICIDE HILLS is a standout series in the genre. It rejuvenates the traditional crime narrative with a unique combination of humor and mystery. The show invites audiences into these characters' quirky, enchanting world, delivering an entertaining and heartwarming narrative. With its exceptional character development and compelling storytelling, HOMICIDE HILLS offers a distinctive and enjoyable viewing experience that will delight comedy and crime drama fans.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER, MHZ CHOICE]