Sur la dalle : decoding of the TV movie with Yvan Attal and Corinne Masiero

The telefilm On the Slab, aired on October 21 on France 2, has sparked the interest of fans of detective novels and television adaptations. With a promising cast led by Yvan Attal as the famous commissioner Adamsberg, this thriller signed by Fred Vargas aims to be an intriguing foray into the world of fictional police investigations. Once the curtain is lifted, what should we really think of it?

A faithful adaptation of the original work?

The essence of Fred Vargas

Adapted from the recent novel by Fred Vargas, On the Slab reaches heights by preserving the particular atmosphere that characterizes her work. The thriller is set in Brittany, where commissioner Adamsberg, flanked by his associates, investigates a series of murders at the borders of the fantastic. The writer, known for her stories that blend investigation and touches of humor, manages to infuse this adaptation with her unique style, although the tension is sometimes diluted.

Some flaws in the plot

Despite a careful staging, it is essential to point out that the story can seem contemplative at times. Abundant scenes of conviviality between characters sometimes give the impression of dragging out the plot. This characteristic, although typical of Vargas, may leave a bitter taste for some viewers, who might expect more action. Some critiques mention a slow pace that may not suit all viewers in search of suspense.

The performances at the heart of the story

Yvan Attal in the lead role

The performance of Yvan Attal as Adamsberg is widely praised. He, replacing Jean-Hugues Anglade, manages to infuse depth and eccentricity into the character. The close collaboration between Attal and director Josée Dayan, a veteran of adaptations of Vargas’ novels, reassures about the continuity of the character. Corinne Masiero and Sylvie Testud, also present in the cast, add their own touches of finesse, enriching the tableau.

A gallery of eccentric characters

The characters, each more colorful than the last, add an interesting dynamic to the story. They successfully represent Vargas’s unbridled imagination. Nevertheless, one critique must be made: some protagonists are rendered more caricatured than nuanced, which may disappoint purists of the Vargas style who prefer more subtle characters.

The setting and atmosphere

The Breton landscapes as a backdrop

The Breton landscapes, carefully highlighted, function as characters in their own right. The wild beauty of the setting helps to reinforce the atmosphere of mystery that permeates the work. That said, the visual representation, although captivating, might sometimes overshadow the narrative itself.

A dilemma in pacing

The blend of atmosphere and slowness of the plot can hinder the narrative flow. Fans of fast actions and unexpected revelations might find this aspect disappointing. However, for those who appreciate a deeper immersion into the characters’ universe and dialogues, this choice may seem relevant.

Critical reception and audience opinions

Viewer reactions

Initial feedback from the public is mixed. On one hand, some praise the fidelity to the original work and the ability to capture Vargas’s universe. On the other hand, some viewers express a certain frustration regarding the plot, deemed too slow to develop. The broadcast period on France.tv before the television release also spurred varied opinions, prompting the audience to share their views.

Future prospects for this franchise

As the adaptation of On the Slab could pave the way for other stories by Fred Vargas, expectations are high. The success of this first adaptation may determine whether other works from the writer’s bibliography will be spotlighted in a similar manner.

In conclusion, the adaptation of On the Slab raises a tangible debate on the balance between honoring literary works and the necessity of captivating storytelling. What are your impressions of this telefilm? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments.