Watch Shadows

Shadows is an intense and suspenseful Romanian television series that aired on HBO from 2014 to 2019. The show follows the story of a police officer named Relu, played brilliantly by Serban Pavlu, who leads a double life as a family man and a mob boss. The production was created by two first-time feature film directors, Bogdan Mirica and Catalin Rotaru, and is a combination of police procedural drama and organized crime thriller. It's the first Romanian TV series to be broadcast on HBO Europe, and it's been positively received by audiences and critics from around the world.

The plot of the show is centered around Relu, a seemingly normal man, who is living with his wife Gina, and their two children. However, he has been involved in the dangerous world of organized crime for years, and he is trying to quit the business to protect his family from harm. But, his past catches up with him, and he finds himself drawn back into a world of violence and betrayal, as he tries to protect his loved ones from the dangerous people who want them dead. His life becomes a high-stakes game of survival, and he must use all his wits to stay one step ahead of the criminals who want to take him out.

One of the things that stands out about Shadows is the lead performance from Serban Pavlu. He brings a great deal of complexity and nuance to the character of Relu, and he manages to convey the inner turmoil and conflict of a man who is torn between his loyalty to his family and his criminal obligations. Pavlu's acting is supported by an excellent cast, including Maria Obretin as Relu's wife Gina, and Andreea Vasile as Magda, a police officer who is investigating Relu's connections to the mob. The chemistry between the actors feels genuine and authentic, and they all deliver strong performances that help to elevate the tension and drama of the show.

The cinematography and direction of Shadows are also impressive. The show has a distinctive visual style, with a dark and moody color palette that enhances the brooding atmosphere of the series. The directors use long takes and slow camera movements to build tension and suspense, and the editing is sharp and precise, which adds to the overall impact of the show. The musical score is also effective, with a mix of classical and electronic music that enhances the mood and tone of each scene.

Shadows is a well-crafted and intelligent series that explores the themes of morality, loyalty, and family in a gritty and realistic way. The show is not for the faint of heart, as it features graphic violence and intense scenes of suspense. However, for those who are willing to take the journey, Shadows offers a captivating and thrilling viewing experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. The show has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations, including the Grand Prize for Best Television Series at the Seoul International Drama Awards in 2019.

In conclusion, Shadows is a must-watch series for fans of crime dramas and police procedurals. It's a show that delivers in every aspect, from the performances to the direction to the writing. The storyline is engaging and compelling, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. It's rare to see a series that is as well-crafted and engaging as Shadows, and it's a testament to the talent and dedication of the creative team behind the production. If you're looking for a gripping and suspenseful show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then Shadows is definitely worth your time.

Shadows is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (18 episodes). The series first aired on December 28, 2018.