AtanariaWhen HPI: Haut Potentiel Intellectuel premiered on France’s TF1 network, it quickly became a standout in the crowded field of crime dramas. The series, created by Vincent Jamain and Laurent Tuel, brings a fresh perspective to the genre with its unique protagonist, Morgane Alvaro. Audrey Fleurot, known for her roles in Kaamelott and Engrenages, transforms into Morgane, an outspoken, rebellious housekeeper whose life takes an unexpected turn when her extraordinary intellect is discovered.
Morgane Alvaro is not your typical investigator. At 38, she juggles single motherhood with three children from two different fathers, mountains of debt, and a strong dislike for authority. Her life changes dramatically when she stumbles upon a case file at the police station she cleans and solves a complex crime within minutes, thanks to her remarkable intellect and observational skills. With an IQ of 160, Morgane possesses what is known as a “High Intellectual Potential” (HPI), but her sharp mind is matched by a fiery personality and a penchant for chaos.
The Lille Criminal Brigade, recognizing her genius, recruits her as a consultant under one condition: the police must investigate the mysterious disappearance of her ex-partner, Romain, the father of her daughter Théa. Thus begins Morgane’s journey into the world of crime-solving, forming an unlikely partnership with Commander Adam Karadec, played by Mehdi Nebbou. Their dynamic is electric—a classic odd-couple pairing that blends tension, humor, and growing mutual respect.
A French Phenomenon: The Birth of a New Kind of Detective Series
Unlike many traditional crime series, HPI injects humor, heart, and unpredictability into each episode. Morgane’s methods are unconventional, often involving theatrics, sarcasm, and an unfiltered approach that baffles her colleagues but yields results. Audrey Fleurot’s performance is magnetic; she brings depth, vulnerability, and an irreverent charm to Morgane, making her one of the most compelling characters on French television.
The supporting cast further enriches the series. Mehdi Nebbou’s portrayal of Karadec offers a grounded counterbalance to Morgane’s chaos, while Bruno Sanches, Marie Denarnaud, Bérangère McNeese, Cypriane Gardin, and Noé Vandevoorde create a dynamic ensemble that keeps the narrative engaging. Each character brings their own quirks and complexities, contributing to the show’s rich tapestry.
The writing in HPI is sharp and well-crafted, with dialogues that feel authentic and witty. Unlike some formulaic police procedurals, the cases are intricate and thought-provoking, often reflecting broader societal issues. The series also delves into Morgane’s personal life, exploring themes of motherhood, financial struggles, and the challenges of being an outsider in a rigid system.
Audrey Fleurot’s standout performance has earned her multiple nominations from the French Association of Series Critics (ACS), further cementing the show’s critical acclaim.
Stateside Spin: High Potential Arrives in America
The success of HPI inevitably caught the attention of international producers, leading to the development of an American adaptation. Set to premiere on ABC on September 17, High Potential brings Morgane’s story to Los Angeles, with Kaitlin Olson stepping into the lead role. Olson, best known for her work in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, promises to deliver a similarly charismatic and offbeat portrayal of the character.
Created by Drew Goddard, known for his work on The Martian and Daredevil, the American adaptation aims to capture the essence of the original while infusing it with a distinctly American sensibility. Olson’s character, like Morgane, is a cleaning lady with a genius IQ who becomes an unlikely consultant for the LAPD. The setting may have changed, but the core elements remain: an unconventional, brilliant woman navigating personal and professional chaos while solving complex crimes.
What to Expect from High Potential
The American version faces high expectations, especially given the success and acclaim of the original. Olson’s comedic background suggests that the adaptation will retain the humor and irreverence that made HPI so beloved. However, it will be interesting to see how cultural differences influence the storytelling. Los Angeles offers a different backdrop than Lille, and the LAPD’s dynamics will undoubtedly differ from those of the French police force.
Early buzz suggests that Olson’s performance is a highlight, much like Fleurot’s in the original. Her ability to blend comedy with emotional depth will be crucial in bringing the character to life. The dynamic between Olson’s character and her partner in the LAPD will also be a key element to watch, as the relationship between Morgane and Karadec was central to HPI’s appeal.
Streaming Both Versions: A Unique Opportunity
For viewers eager to compare the two versions, Hulu offers a unique opportunity. All three seasons of HPI are currently available to stream, with episodes available in both French with English subtitles and dubbed English. This allows audiences to experience the original series’ charm and see how it compares to the American adaptation.
Furthermore, episodes of High Potential will be available on Hulu the day after they air on ABC, allowing subscribers to watch both series side by side. This dual availability provides a fascinating look at how a story can be adapted across cultures, highlighting differences in tone, character dynamics, and setting.
A Detective for the Modern Era
HPI has already established itself as a standout series, blending humor, heart, and sharp storytelling with a memorable lead performance from Audrey Fleurot. Its American counterpart, High Potential, has big shoes to fill but shows promise with Kaitlin Olson at the helm. Both series offer more than just crime-solving; they explore themes of resilience, individuality, and the power of unconventional thinking.
Whether you’re a fan of French television or new to the world of Morgane Alvaro, these series offer a refreshing take on the procedural genre. With both versions available to stream, there’s no better time to dive into the world of HPI and High Potential—and discover why this high-IQ investigator is capturing hearts on both sides of the Atlantic.
