Fans of detective fiction can celebrate the return of “Maigret,” premiering this Sunday on PBS. This new adaptation is the fourth British series inspired by Georges Simenon’s iconic Parisian detective, following previous adaptations and a failed pilot.
Exploring Maigret: A Timeless Character
Georges Simenon’s Maigret is a unique character, often described as a middle-aged, middle-class, and honest policeman. Known for his kindness and empathy towards individuals from all walks of life, Maigret bears the weight of his profession while enjoying simple pleasures like good food and drink.
This latest series, starring Benjamin Wainwright, comes with a contemporary twist, set in the present day. With Simenon having penned 75 novels and 28 stories between 1931 and 1972, adaptations of Maigret frequently align with the era in which they are filmed. Therefore, viewers will see a version of Maigret shaped by modern sensibilities.
A Comparison of Notable Maigret Adaptations
While the new series revamps the character, many significant adaptations have depicted Maigret over the years. Here’s a brief overview:
- Pierre Renoir, ‘Night at the Crossroads’ (1932): The first screen Maigret directed by Jean Renoir, a subtitled version is available on YouTube.
- Charles Laughton, ‘The Man on the Eiffel Tower’ (1950): An adaptation that showcases humor and thrilling escapades set in Paris.
- Rupert Davies, ‘Maigret’ (1960): A BBC series comprising 52 episodes known for its dialogue-heavy format. Available on Prime Video and Apple TV+.
- Richard Harris, ‘Maigret’ (1988): A singular interpretation lacking Simenon’s stories, a unique take featuring a stranded version of the detective.
- Michael Gambon, ‘Maigret’ (1992): This rendition set in post-World War II Paris remains a favorite among fans.
- Rowan Atkinson, ‘Maigret’ (2016): Atkinson adopts a serious tone, presenting a poignant interpretation of the character.
William Wainwright’s Modern Maigret
The latest series features several changes relevant to today’s audience. Maigret’s character is younger and more active, and his dynamic with his wife, Madame Maigret, has evolved. In this adaptation, she takes on a professional role, and the couple is exploring parenthood.
As with its predecessors, the series relies on the historical motifs and settings characteristic of Maigret stories. However, modern technology and diverse representation feature prominently in this retelling. The series is expected to spark discussions over Wainwright’s portrayal amidst the long-standing legacy of Maigret.
How to Watch
Fans can watch the new “Maigret” on PBS, streaming on PBS.org, the PBS app, and the PBS Masterpiece Prime Video channel.
This adaptation promises to bring excitement to both long-time fans and newcomers seeking engaging detective dramas. With an excellent supporting cast and quality production, “Maigret” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal.
