Essential Foreign Language Television Shows Highlighting Their Cultural Heritage

Finding foreign language television shows that not only entertain but also highlight and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the places they come from can be a daunting task. However, with the right selection, one can easily discover a diverse and fascinating range of series that provide deep insights into the customs, traditions, and historical backgrounds of various countries. In this article, we will explore some of these shows, including some created by myself as a screenplay consultant and developer, and others that have become highly acclaimed classics.

Developing Critical Shows:

When it comes to foreign language television, it is not uncommon for a show to capture the essence of its cultural background while also addressing significant social and political issues. In the following sections, we will share some of the excellent foreign shows that I have been involved in, as well as others that stand out for their unique storytelling and cultural significance.

The Killing – Denmark, 2007

Crime/Mystery
ThThe Killing is a Danish crime/mystery series that revolves around the investigation of a single murder as it unfolds in real time throughout the length of the season. It is a gripping show with numerous twists and turns, making it a standout in the crime genre. Originally aired on Kanal 5, it was also remade into an American version by AMC. My involvement as a script doctor and observer of its development throughout Season 1 provided me with a unique perspective on the show, but even after rewatching it recently, I found that it still holds up very well.

The Bridge – Denmark and Sweden, 2011-2018

Crime/Mystery
The Bridge is a co-production from Denmark and Sweden that focuses on a crime that takes place in the middle of the strategically located Malm? Bridge. This bridge connects Malm?, Sweden to Br?ndby, Denmark, creating a unique collaboration between the two countries’ police forces despite their cultural differences. The series explores the challenges and opportunities that arise from such a cross-border investigation. I had the opportunity to contribute to Seasons 1 and 3, initially helping with script development and later with rewrites, and the show's international success, especially after becoming a franchise in the UK, Canada, and the US, underlines its quality and appeal.

Berlin Alexanderplatz – Germany, 1980

Miniseries
Berlin Alexanderplatz is a German miniseries adapted from the novel by Alfred Doblin, and directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder. This dark and compelling story, set in Germany just before World War II, explores the life of a criminal who is recently released from prison and his attempt to live an honest life in a society where everyone is gradually becoming criminals. The show is an important part of German cultural heritage, reflecting the societal changes and anxieties of the pre-war period. I was amazed by the depth of this series, and it remains a powerful testament to the power of cinema and television in capturing the essence of a culture.

Lés Revenants – France, 2012

Supernatural
Lés Revenants is a French supernatural series that is based on the 2004 French film of the same name and later remade as The Returned. The series tells the story of a small French village where all its deceased return to life, leading to a series of supernatural and emotional events. However, the French original version takes a different but equally intriguing direction, especially after the introduction of a massive plot twist in the fourth episode that was overlooked in the American remake. This twist sets the series on a path that adds layers and depth far beyond the remade American version.

Fanny and Alexander – Sweden, 1982

Mini series
Fanny and Alexander, directed by the legendary Ingmar Bergman, is a semi-autobiographical series that follows the lives of two siblings, Fanny and Alexander, in early 20th-century Sweden. The series begins with their father's death and the later forced marriage to a harsh and tyrannical priest who brings misfortune to their family. Alexander, who has a vivid imagination, used to tell stories to escape, but his creativity leaves him hated by the priest. Eventually, he experiences a fateful vision where he sees his dead relatives accusing the priest of their deaths. This series was later adapted into a feature film that won four Academy Awards and a Golden Globe, demonstrating its timeless appeal and cultural importance.

Salamander – Belgium, 2012

Conspiracy Thriller
Salamander is a Belgian conspiracy thriller that starts with the curious robbery of 66 safes. Upon investigation, it is discovered that these safes belonged to the country's most prominent billionaires, forming a secret society that secretively controls aspects of society. The show is currently in development for an American version by ABC. I was fortunate to be involved in the project from the start and throughout its development. As a story about political intrigue and betrayal, Salamander offers a thrilling narrative that captures the essence of societal manipulation and corruption.

Profūgos – Chile, 2011

Criminal Thriller
Profūgos is a Chilean criminal thriller that involves four criminals who must make a run for it after a drug deal goes wrong. The characters in this series are diverse and complex, with their interactions adding depth to the narrative. The show benefits from a strong ensemble cast and manages to create a compelling tale of survival and daring. Such stories are crucial in understanding the broader socio-political landscape of the region.

The Kingdom – Denmark, 1994

Horror Comedy
The Kingdom is a Danish horror comedy that was created by Lars von Trier, Tobias Gissinger, and Niels V-dashboard. This series, set in a modern hospital, explores the supernatural occurrences that unfold, both hilarious and terrifying in equal measure. The show gained immense popularity in Europe, and later, a remake was produced in the United States with a script by Stephen King. The American version, however, did not maintain the core essence that made the original so intriguing and entertaining.