From Intrigue to Absurdity : The Critical Missteps of “Astrid et Raphaëlle” Season 5

2 mins read

Review

Asteria Rating
5/10
Overall
5.0/10

The highly anticipated fifth season of Astrid et Raphaëlle, starring Lola Dewaere and Sara Mortensen, premiered on November 8, 2024, on France 2. Known for its unique blend of crime-solving and personal drama, the series has returned with its familiar mix of gripping storylines, guest stars, and emotional character arcs. However, this season takes a surprising turn with exaggerated scenarios and an overwhelming sense of theatricality, making it a challenging watch for some.

A Season Filled with Far-Fetched Plots

Season 5 kicks off with a dramatic double episode centered on an espionage case. The plot begins with a woman killed by a poisoned dart while sitting on a bench—a death straight out of a spy thriller. As Astrid and Raphaëlle delve into the investigation, they find themselves entangled with French and American secret services, leading to a labyrinth of conspiracy.

From there, the series ventures into increasingly fantastical territory. The duo investigates cases involving a Buddhist community, a Mormon sect, Ancient Tribal Rites and even the high-stakes world of horse racing. They even get recruited by the DGSE and collaborate with the CIA all in one episode! While these settings offer intriguing backdrops, the exaggerated plots often stretch the bounds of believability. The show’s reliance on sensational twists and improbable connections makes it difficult to take the narrative seriously.

The Personal Lives of Astrid and Raphaëlle

On a more grounded note, the personal arcs of the lead characters remain a highlight of t,he series. Raphaëlle’s pregnancy and her evolving relationship with Nicolas (played by Benoît Michel) provide moments of genuine emotion. Meanwhile, Astrid grapples with the departure of Tetsuo (Kengo Saito) and a resurfacing trauma from her adolescence, adding depth to her character.

The introduction of Raphaëlle’s estranged mother, played by Julie Arnold, adds another layer of complexity to the storyline. These character-driven subplots are compelling and offer a counterbalance to the more outlandish crime plots.

A Misstep in Tone

One of the most glaring issues with Season 5 is its tonal shift. While the series has always embraced a degree of quirkiness, the latest episodes lean heavily into melodrama. Each plot is accompanied by ominous, overly dramatic music that heightens tension to an almost unbearable degree. Instead of enhancing the suspense, this approach often feels forced and detracts from the storytelling.

Moreover, the show’s penchant for incorporating fantastical elements into its crime narratives reaches new heights this season, creating a jarring disconnect between the storylines and the emotional stakes. The result is a season that feels more like a parody of itself, veering into the realm of the absurd.

A Divisive Season

While the loyal fanbase of Astrid et Raphaëlle may find enough to enjoy in the evolving personal dynamics of the characters, the exaggerated scenarios and heavy-handed storytelling may alienate some viewers. The series’ shift towards more fantastical and far-fetched plots, coupled with its overuse of ominous music, undermines its potential for genuine intrigue and suspense.

Ultimately, whether Season 5 is worth watching depends on your tolerance for its theatrical excesses. For fans who have followed Astrid and Raphaëlle’s journey from the beginning, the character development may be enough to keep them engaged. For others, the over-the-top drama might make this season a tough pill to swallow.

A natural-born writer and poet, Atanaria’s pen dances with a rhythm that only she knows. Her passion for the unspoken, the mysterious, and the forgotten led her to create The Nerdy Virginias—a publication that would later evolve into Asteria, a testament to her love for the hidden corners of culture. Here, she explores the fringes of society, where subcultures thrive away from the blinding lights of the mainstream.

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