Ep 1. Love in Amsterdam, Part 1

Van der Valk (Original) season 1 episode 1, Love in Amsterdam, Part 1, opens with an idyllic Amsterdam canal scene as we see a body floating face down in the water. From there, we are introduced to the titular character, Piet Van der Valk, who is hot on the case of Chechen immigrant, Adil El Hamal, who is thought to have kidnapped a wealthy Dutch industrialist's daughter.

The investigation is already complex enough, with multiple suspects and a web of lies to unravel, but what really brings the story to life is the backdrop of Amsterdam itself. The show takes great care in showcasing the city's beauty and unique character, from the picturesque canals to the gritty underground clubs where the city's less savory figures tend to congregate.

As Van der Valk delves deeper into the case, he is soon joined by his team, which includes the eager and ambitious Lucienne Hassell, and the seasoned, no-nonsense Brad de Vries. Together, they piece together the clues and chase down leads, all while navigating through a city that is every bit as complex and mysterious as the case they are working on.

In addition to the central kidnapping case, Love in Amsterdam, Part 1 also introduces a number of interesting subplots, such as Piet's strained relationship with his ex-wife, and the burgeoning romance between Lucienne and a charming young chef named Job Cloovers. These storylines add depth and emotional resonance to the proceedings, helping to elevate Van der Valk from a simple procedural drama to a more character-driven show.

Throughout the episode, the acting is uniformly strong, with Marc Warren doing an excellent job of bringing Piet Van der Valk to life as a tough but compassionate detective who cares deeply about his city and the people who live in it. Simona Brown is also impressive as Lucienne, imbuing the character with a sense of wide-eyed wonder and determination that makes her a standout among the supporting cast.

Overall, Love in Amsterdam, Part 1 is a well-crafted and engrossing premiere episode that sets the stage for an exciting and intriguing season of Van der Valk. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or simply appreciate well-made television, this show is definitely worth checking out.