Maigret Gets a Modern Makeover in new PBS Series
While graphic on-screen violence has become commonplace in modern television, some fictional crimes still manage too shock viewers. The reimagining of beloved detectives often sparks controversy, with fans fiercely protective of their favorite characters. This is especially true for the admirers of Georges Simenon’s iconic Maigret novels, who are in for a significant surprise.
The much-loved, middle-aged Parisian police chief, known for his contemplative nature, is about to be reborn as a young, contemporary detective. This fresh take on Simenon’s mysteries, filmed in Budapest (standing in for Paris), stars Benjamin Wainwright, known for his role in Belgravia, as the formerly taciturn Chief Inspector Maigret. The six-part series, produced by the Playground team behind wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light for WGBH Boston’s Masterpiece, features Patrick Harbinson, of Homeland fame, as the head writer.
Created in 1930, Simenon’s Maigret, a detective of the Police Judiciaire, was originally portrayed as a solitary figure who solved cases through his intuitive understanding of human nature. his guiding principle, as many fans know, was “to understand and not to judge.”
Even renowned author Julian Barnes, a devoted fan of the books, acknowledges that simenon’s work isn’t exactly “cosy crime.” He notes, ”It’s hardly comfort, because his view of life and human motivation is so pessimistic, but I always have a Simenon close at hand.”
this new adaptation promises a thrilling and contemporary take on a classic character, sure to captivate both longtime fans and new viewers alike. The series is set to air on PBS Masterpiece, bringing a fresh perspective to the world of Maigret for American audiences.
A New maigret: Reimagining the Iconic Detective for Modern Audiences
Jules Maigret,the iconic Belgian detective created by Georges Simenon,is getting a fresh reboot. While the character has graced screens for decades,a new adaptation promises a unique perspective on the famously observant investigator,set against the backdrop of a vividly depicted Paris.
Previous portrayals, such as Rowan Atkinson’s 2016 ITV series, offered a somber interpretation, focusing on the “human soul,” as the producers described it. However, some critics felt it lacked the thrilling twists and turns expected of modern crime dramas. This new adaptation aims to rectify that, while still honoring Simenon’s core themes.
The producers highlight their intention to convey Simenon’s “enduring concern for the essential humanity of the disenfranchised individual.” Yet, this version reimagines Maigret as “an unconventional young detective with something to prove,” a departure from the more established image of the seasoned investigator. The role of Madame Maigret will be played by Stefanie Martini.
The series promises a compelling visual experience, showcasing “a vividly realised Paris, not often seen on camera, that takes us from the glitzy upper-class world of luxury hotels and mansions to local bourgeois bistros and bars and the underground haunts of the professionally criminal.” This detailed portrayal of parisian life adds another layer to the already rich narrative.
Maigret’s iconic look—the crumpled trench coat, the brimmed hat, and the ever-present pipe—has been adopted by over 35 actors throughout various adaptations. From Jean Gabin’s seminal performance in the 1950s to Rupert Davies’s popular British television series in the 1960s and michael Gambon’s acclaimed portrayal in the 1990s, the character has captivated audiences for generations. Even Charles Laughton portrayed Maigret in the 1949 film,”The Man on the Eiffel Tower,” showcasing the character’s enduring appeal across different mediums and cultures.
This new adaptation, slated for release early next year, promises to add another compelling chapter to the long and storied history of Jules Maigret, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to the spirit of Simenon’s original work. The combination of a modern approach and a commitment to the character’s core essence makes this upcoming series one to watch.
Maigret Mania: Classic Detective Novels Get a Modern Reboot
Get ready for a return to the smoky Parisian cafes and twisting alleyways of classic detective fiction. Playground Entertainment has acquired the English-language rights to the complete works of Georges Simenon’s iconic detective, Jules Maigret. This ambitious undertaking encompasses all 75 novels, promising a potentially massive franchise for the beloved sleuth.
Simenon, a prolific Belgian author who passed away in 1989 at the age of 86, created a character who has captivated readers for generations. Maigret, a shrewd and observant Parisian detective, ranks as the second best-selling literary detective of all time, trailing only Sherlock Holmes. with over 800 million copies sold worldwide in more than 50 languages, Maigret’s enduring appeal is undeniable.
The sheer volume of source material is a significant draw for Playground Entertainment. David Stern, the company’s joint managing director, expressed confidence in the project’s success, stating, “George Simenon’s creation of Jules Maigret holds a firm place in the pantheon of great literary detectives.”
This isn’t just a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of detective fiction. Playground is aiming for a long-term franchise, suggesting a potential for multiple film adaptations, television series, and even merchandise. The potential for a prosperous American adaptation is high, given the enduring popularity of mystery novels and detective dramas in the U.S.
while many fans may have their own preferred portrayal of Maigret, the sheer scale of Simenon’s work offers a wealth of stories ripe for adaptation. The potential for a fresh,modern take on the classic character,while remaining true to the spirit of the original novels,is exciting for both longtime fans and new audiences alike.
Born in Liège, Belgium in 1903, Simenon began his writing career early, publishing his first novel in 1921. He later moved to Paris and then spent a significant portion of his life (1945-1955) in the United States,further solidifying the international appeal of his work.
