Watch Bad Banks

Bad Banks is a critically acclaimed German television drama series that premiered on 21 February 2018 on Arte. It was later also broadcast on ZDF. The show explores the world of investment banking and the greed, corruption, and cutthroat competition that can drive people to the top.

The series has two seasons, each with six episodes. The first season aired in 2018, while the second season premiered in late 2020. The show has been praised for its complex storyline, well-developed characters, and suspenseful plot. The cast includes top-notch actors such as Paula Beer, Désirée Nosbusch, Tobias Moretti, and Barry Atsma.

The show revolves around a young investment banker named Jana Liekam (played by Paula Beer) who works at a prestigious bank in Frankfurt. She's ambitious, driven, and wants to make a name for herself in the banking world. However, when she discovers some troubling irregularities in the bank's dealings, she starts to question the morality of her job. She struggles to balance her morals with her desire to succeed and keep her job.

Jana's path crosses with the powerful and ruthless investment banker, Christelle Leblanc (played by Désirée Nosbusch). Leblanc is a high-ranking executive at a rival bank and is notorious for playing dirty. She is willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead, even if it means betraying those closest to her. Leblanc is Jana's mentor, but their relationship is far from friendly. Leblanc sees potential in Jana and decides to take her under her wing, but it's clear that she has ulterior motives.

Another key character is Gabriel Fenger (played by Tobias Moretti), the head of Jana's bank. He's a shrewd businessman who is always looking for ways to gain an advantage over his rivals. Fenger is a master manipulator who is not afraid to play dirty to get what he wants. He sees Jana as a valuable asset to his team, but also recognizes her potential as a threat.

The show also touches upon important themes such as gender inequality and the lack of diversity in the workplace. It highlights the struggles that women face in the male-dominated world of investment banking and the pressure they feel to conform to certain standards. The show also explores the immigrant experience, with Jana being from a Turkish-German background.

One of the things that makes Bad Banks stand out is its attention to detail. The show accurately portrays the world of investment banking, from the jargon to the strategies used by the banks. The show also has excellent production value, with stunning visuals and a gripping soundtrack that adds to the tension of the plot.

Overall, Bad Banks is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good thriller. It's a fast-paced and gripping show that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The show has been widely praised for its smart writing, compelling characters, and realistic portrayal of the investment banking industry. The ending of season two leaves room for more, so fans are eagerly anticipating news of a potential third season.

Bad Banks is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on March 1, 2018.