In the year of 2023, the small screen was dominated by tales of daring heists! From the heart-pounding “Kaleidoscope” on Netflix to the highly anticipated “Berlin”, a prequel to “Money Heist”, the art of armed robbery held audiences captive throughout the year. While some shows missed the mark, the best in the genre brought a fresh twist to crime drama, weaving in nonlinear storytelling, social commentary, and even a hint of romance.
“Kaleidoscope”, bursting onto screens on New Year’s Day, was a whirlwind of action and mind-boggling twists. Led by Giancarlo Esposito, the series followed the tale of master thief Leo Pap and his crew as they plotted to snatch $7 billion in bearer bonds. What set this show apart was its unique format, allowing viewers to watch the episodes in any order. While the nonlinear structure added intrigue, it was Esposito’s compelling portrayal of a man driven by revenge that stole the show.
Another standout was “The Gold”, which took a different angle by focusing on the aftermath of a heist. Diving into the 1983 robbery of the Brink’s-Mat warehouse and the accidental discovery of £26 million worth of pure gold bullion, the series explored the economic disparity in 1980s London and humanized its characters, blurring the lines between right and wrong, leaving viewers questioning whose side to champion.
Enter “Culprits”, a cleverly crafted show that flitted between three timelines, exploring the link between a heist and a masked assassin’s spree. Creator J Blakeson seamlessly wove in commentary about the corrupt nature of society, particularly the discriminatory system that shields the affluent while offering little solace for people like David, a queer, Black man who faces prejudice in his small town.
Finally, “Berlin”, the prequel to “Money Heist”, brought a unique twist by blending romance, comedy, and an alluring edge into the classic heist tale. Focused on the theft of €44 million in jewelry from a Parisian auction house, the show also delved into Berlin’s infatuation with his mark’s wife, adding a layer of intricacy and depth to the series.
What bound these shows together was their commitment to delivering something fresh while staying true to the core elements of the heist genre. As global inequality grows, the satisfaction of watching ragtag crews tilt the scales against the wealthy and powerful only intensifies. These shows have the potential to captivate audiences long after the vault door clangs shut.
The year of 2023 may have been a curious one for television, but one thing’s certain – heist shows had their time to shine. So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a marathon of thrilling robberies, unexpected romance, and gallant escapades, as these series continue to enthrall audiences in the years to come. It’s the era of the heist, and TV has never been more exhilarating!
