Script authenticity is crucial for crime writers, according to Sabine Postel.
"Die Kanzlei," the popular German legal drama, has once again made headlines, setting a new viewer record in March with an average market share of 18.7 percent. This success is largely attributed to the compelling scripts of Thorsten Näter, who has been involved since the series' inception.
The show is a spin-off of the 2005 series "Der Dicke," and it features a changing cast, a trend common in crime shows. Dieter Pfaff, who originally played lawyer Gregor Ehrenberg in "Der Dicke," was succeeded by Herbert Knaup in "Die Kanzlei."
Sabine Postel, former "Tatort" commissioner and actress, is currently critical of the ongoing crime boom. However, she acknowledges the potential of the crime format to discuss and depict issues that shape society. In the case of "Die Kanzlei," this is evident in the series' use of up-to-date cases in written scripts.
Postel also emphasizes the importance of adjusting to the changing cast in crime shows. In "Die Kanzlei," viewers have witnessed the portrayal of various legal cases, including the refugee issue, demonstrating the show's potential for social engagement.
Thorsten Näter is known for being socially engaged and for picking up cases from newspapers for his stories. His involvement in "Die Kanzlei" has undoubtedly contributed to the series' ability to tackle current issues in a thought-provoking manner.
The success of "Die Kanzlei" has led to the production of a second standalone film, titled "Weites Land," which is currently being produced and is expected to air around the turn of the year 2025/26.
Postel perceives a trivialization and decreasing viewer interest in crime shows. Despite this, "Die Kanzlei" continues to captivate audiences with its well-researched stories and commitment to social commentary. The artist emphasizes the importance of using the freedom provided by the crime format to explore and discuss the issues that matter most.
The success of "Die Kanzlei," with its 18.7 percent average market share in March, not only showcases the appeal of movies-and-tv centered on crime-and-justice but also demonstrates the show's potential for general-news discussions, as evidenced by its exploration of current issues such as the refugee crisis. Meanwhile, Sabine Postel, while acknowledging the potential trivialization of crime shows in entertainment, praises the social engagement of series like "Die Kanzlei," which delves into relevant topics through well-researched stories.
