Spin Series 1&2 [DVD]

The President of France assassinated. The race on to be his successor. Rival candidates need those who can control the media - opposition skilfully discredited, themselves shown in the best possible light. Enter Simon Kapita, he in his element as a master of spin. Two particularly hinder his efforts: estranged wife Appoline, she an investigative reporter determined to expose the truth behind any smokescreen; Kapita's former protege Ludovic, ruthlessly and lucratively using such skills to advance his own career.Bruno Wolkowitch excels as Kapita - spin doctor with standards and compassion. Several key characters evolve interestingly - at least one initially heartily disliked but to prove considerably more worthy.Arguably less so are certain romantic sub-plots, they less convincing and reducing overall impact.Coming over strongly is the pressure heaped upon those in power, the need to present decisions in the best possible light (and to keep certain decisions well away from the public eye).So much rings true, especially nowadays when false news, misinformation can circulate the globe within minutes. It helps to know how this can be achieved, the public hopefully less gullible next time.Two gripping seasons. In each six episodes crammed with tension and surprises. English subtitles. No bonuses.Recommended.

Quite interesting to see Gregory Fitoussi in a very different (and much less sympathetic) role to that which he played in "Spiral", but there any comparison between these series ends. This is a much inferior product - not exactly bad, but lacking in the dramatic impact of some other French productions. The plot lines were just a little too OTT to allow much suspension of disbelief, and the pacing was erratic. Against this, the acting was generally of a very high standard but a good cast wasn't enough to turn this series from a rather average production to an outstanding one. It just about kept us interested to watch to the end of Series 2, but we have no particular desire to persevere with the third and final series.

One of the reasons for creating a wish list is that I was notified of price reduction and able to purchase this at half original price. I originally watched it on channel 4 and decided to buy as I'm learning French but at the moment still need the subtitles for confirmation.Series in France was called 'the men in the shadows' but as it's about the PR people behind politicians it was renamed 'Spin' for the UK which is less sexist, although the main PRs are both men. Following the assassination of the President Simon Kapita (Bruno Wolkowitch) supports the President's former lover, Anne Visage. to replace him. Simon's former protege, Ludovic Desneuze (Gregory Fitoussi) supports his rival.At the time of its release, the public was less aware of 'spin' than it is now but it is still interesting to see the interplays behind the media coverage.

Fab Storyline . On the Edge Of Your Seat with Twists & Turns

Engrossing, with good character development and incidental themes. A little dark and you may consider it over cynical, but well worked. You will need to be okay with English sub-titles, though, if your French isn't C2.

Top class viewing.

This is nearly as good as Spiral - not quite though. It is a very entertaining look at French politics with a pinch of salt!

Loved this when it was first shown on TV but did not record it so decided to buy this DVD but the subtitles dont fit in to the picture but drop off the bottom of the screen. ls there something l can do about this?