Watch Easy Living

Easy Living is a Finnish television drama that originated from the country's northern region in 2009. Conceptualized as a gritty crime drama, it presents a riveting narrative focusing on a family immersed in a life of crime and how their actions affect their relationships, aspirations, and personal moralities. The show intricately meshes the turbulence of crime-ridden life with everyday human emotions and familial bonds, presenting a captivating and multi-layered narrative.

The show revolves around the intriguing life of Tapio Mikkonen, a charismatic yet morally complex character, thoughtfully portrayed by the Finnish actor, Carl-Kristian Rundman. Tapio serves as the patriarch of a family immersed in the criminal world. The central plot chronicles Tapio's struggles with his dual life as both a family man and a key figure in the criminal underworld, which he tries to protect his family from. His inescapable involvement in crime and its effect on his family forms the heart of the drama.

Moreover, Easy Living offers an unflinching depiction of the larger network of organized crime in Finland, lightly threading on the issues of domestic and international criminal activities. It provides a detailed perspective on the nuances of such illicit operations without glorifying or romanticizing them. This realistic portrayal of crime, coupled with a strong emphasis on the human element, sets the series apart from typical crime dramas.

What makes Easy Living gripping is not just its thrilling plot twists but also the intense emotions and strong conflicts that define the characters. A significant aspect of the show lies in its exploration of complicated family dynamics and personal relationships. This exploration has enabled writers to weave interpersonal dramas seamlessly within the broader crime narrative, thus offering deeper insights into each character's psyche.

The show's treatment of its protagonists isn’t plainly black and white. These characters are complex, each finding themselves tangled in a web of moral dilemmas and personal conflicts, serving as victims and perpetrators at the same time. Such character development not only adds depth to the narrative, but it also provokes thought in the audience, inviting them to challenge their about crime and morality.

Easy Living boasts of a brilliant performance from a talented ensemble cast portraying multi-layered characters. The actors have lent authenticity to the narrative with their emotionally charged performances, adding to the show's overall appeal. Rundman's performance as Tapio, particularly, stands apart in portraying the complexities and contradictions of his character.

Visually, the series stands out with its unique style. It remains grounded in reality with its minimalistic and raw aesthetics. The use of gloomy, realistic Finnish settings paired with a moody color palette creates a suitable environment for the drama to unfold. This authentic representation paints a stark contrast to the glamorized presentation common in most crime-oriented series and films, allowing audiences a closer look at the unromantic and gritty aspect of the crime-infused life.

While the series skillfully handles themes about crime and family, it also extends its narrative reach to delve into wider societal issues. It subtly throws light on the dark side of wealth and luxury and the price one must pay to enjoy it. The identity crisis, personal losses, threats, and dangers that accompany a life of crime are also presented in stark detail. Easy Living raises philosophical questions on right and wrong, good and evil, forcing its viewers to weigh the consequences of their actions and make difficult choices.

However, despite its darker themes, Easy Living doesn't shy away from occasional moments of warmth, humor, and levity. These lighthearted scenes offer a breather amidst the series' intensity and soften the harsh realities of the characters' lives. This balance between darkness and light, crime and virtue, makes the series both immersive and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, Easy Living is an exploration into the heart of darkness, painted with human emotions and societal dilemmas. It's a journey into the depths of personal ethics and contradictions. The show is not just about crime and its consequences, but it's a portrayal of life as it is—complex, filled with hard choices and tougher consequences. It's a must-see for viewers who appreciate well-rounded character studies, intricate plotting, and a gritty yet emotional narrative.

Easy Living is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (32 episodes). The series first aired on January 1, 2011.