A Small Town’s Dark Comedy Unveiled

A six‑part crime‑comedy series premiered its first two episodes at a film festival in Lille, where it made its world debut. The show will air on Radio‑Canada later this year and is being sold internationally by a distributor linked to the production companies.

Plot & Tone

The story follows Gabriel Serpent, an investigator who uncovers a grim secret in his quiet community while fighting to keep the local police station operational. Set in a fictional village inspired by the creator’s own hometown, the series blends crime with humor. The writer‑director emphasizes that life is full of absurd moments and that laughter protects people from negativity—television should showcase more smiles.

Character Development

Gabriel’s character unfolds gradually, drawing on personal memories—especially his relationship with his father—to shape the detective’s backstory. Subtle details are left to the setting and atmosphere, allowing the story to breathe organically.

Visual Style

The production team opted for old‑school cameras to achieve a gritty, textured look. Modern equipment, they argue, is too clean and uniform. Limited colors—earthy tones, oranges, browns—give the series a harsh yet warm aesthetic.

Authentic Setting

The creator grew up in the same region where the show is filmed. By using familiar landscapes, he blends reality with imagination, turning a picturesque town into a place where beauty and ugliness coexist. This contrast heightens the visual interest.

Broader Impact

The series exemplifies how a local story can evolve into a universal drama, proving that even small towns can host complex, dark tales when told with humor and honesty.