Watch Van der Valk (Original)

Van der Valk is a British detective drama series that was initially aired in 1972 and 1977, then revived in 2020. It follows the investigations of Commissaris (Commissioner) Piet Van der Valk, played by Barry Foster, a streetwise and intuitive police detective based in the Dutch city of Amsterdam. The series is set against the picturesque backdrop of Amsterdam's canals and the city's rich cultural history.

The character of Van der Valk was first introduced in a series of novels by British author Nicolas Freeling. The initial TV adaptation aired on British television between 1972 and 1977 and featured Foster in the leading role. In 2020, the series was revived by British TV channel ITV and PBS Masterpiece, with Marc Warren in the lead role of Van der Valk. However, this description will focus on the original series which starred Foster.

The show opens with Van der Valk investigating the murder of a university professor who was involved in a secret project. The complex case leads Van der Valk into the high society of Amsterdam, where he confronts corruption and power struggles. Throughout the series, Van der Valk faces a variety of cases, including art thefts, bank robberies, and the murders of prostitutes, all of which take him on a journey through the dark, dangerous, and mysterious world of Amsterdam's criminal underworld.

Van der Valk is a compelling character, a man who is deeply committed to justice and is driven by a desire to solve the most difficult cases. He is also a loving partner and devoted father, with a deep sense of loyalty to his colleagues in the Amsterdam police force. Van der Valk's approach to police work is unusual and unorthodox - he relies on his intuition and street smarts rather than standard police procedures.

The show features an ensemble cast, including Van der Valk's Deputy, Inspector Johnny Kroon (played by Michael Latimer) and his journalist girlfriend Arlette Van der Valk (played by Meg Davies). The cast is diverse, reflecting the cultural melting pot that is Amsterdam. The scripts are intelligent and thoughtful, exploring the complexities of the human psyche and the motivations behind criminal behavior.

One of the most significant elements of Van der Valk is the location in which it is set. Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Europe, with a rich cultural heritage and a unique character. The canals, museums, and historic buildings are a constant presence throughout the series, adding depth and texture to the storyline.

The cinematography is stunning, with the camera work capturing the beauty of Amsterdam's architecture and natural scenery. The use of light and shadow is deliberate and dramatic, creating a dynamic and engaging visual style that draws in the audience.

Overall, Van der Valk (Original) is a well-crafted and engaging detective drama that blends intelligent scriptwriting, rugged character development, and thrilling action sequences. The show is as relevant today as it ever was, with the original series having paved the way for modern police procedurals. The revival series featuring Marc Warren has been commissioned for a second series, indicating the enduring appeal of the character and the Amsterdam location. If you enjoy detective dramas with strong characters, engaging storylines, and a stunning location, then Van der Valk is a must-watch series.

Van der Valk (Original) is a series that is currently running and has 4 seasons (18 episodes). The series first aired on September 13, 2020.