Arte's production is a politically-charged Serbian thriller series, reminiscent of a coup d'etat.
In the heart of Belgrade, a destructive system where grief and the need for justice are palpable, the European cultural channel Arte has achieved a programming coup with the series "The Assassination - Secret Operation Belgrade." This riveting thriller, set in 2024, unfolds the events leading up to the assassination of Serbian Prime Minister Zoran Dindic, a man who sought to combat organized crime, drive forward democratic reforms, and bring his country closer to the EU.
The series does not aim to be a documentary of the events, but their interpretation, as stated in the opening credits. Nikola Kojo, Nikola Rakočević, and Dragan Mićanović bring the main characters to life, each playing a crucial role in the covert operation that forms the heart of the story.
Uros Ristic, a small-time criminal, becomes increasingly entangled in the machinations of a criminal clan behind Dindic's assassination. Journalist Danica Mandic, detectives Boris Rakic and Ljuba Vasiljevic are also central figures in the series, working tirelessly to uncover the truth.
The series explores the interconnections between politics, organized crime, and the paramilitary special unit JSO in Serbia. The state apparatus is depicted as much more corrupt than it appears, with the characters moving credibly within their sphere of action, showing occasional activism.
The cinematography, credited to Aleksander Kosutic, creates a sense of breathlessness, with quick ups and downs, and clear distinctions between good and evil. The condensation and translation of events in the series offer a deep insight into the chaotic phase of Serbia that rarely comes into the focus of the (west) European public.
"The Assassination - Secret Operation Belgrade" is rarely "over the top," aiming to convince through proximity and maximum authenticity. It's a complex yet not confusing, thrilling yet not overstretched series that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The series marks a significant step forward for Serbian television, demonstrating its capacity to produce high-quality, internationally acclaimed productions. If you're a fan of gripping thrillers and political dramas, "The Assassination - Secret Operation Belgrade" is a must-watch.
Everyone who enjoys movies-and-tv focusing on gripping thrillers and political dramas should not miss "The Assassination - Secret Operation Belgrade," a series that offers an insightful entertainment experience. The series, airing on the European cultural channel Arte, masterfully portrays the interconnections between politics, organized crime, and the paramilitary special unit JSO in Serbia, presenting a captivating representation of the country's chaotic phase that is seldom depicted in Western entertainment.
