Dirty Lines

Dirty Lines is a Dutch drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2022. The show takes viewers on a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s, specifically to 1987 Amsterdam. It offers an intriguing glimpse into the rise of phone sex lines and the impact of this burgeoning industry on the lives of those who run it, those who use it, and the society at large.

Set against the backdrop of a culturally vibrant Amsterdam that is simultaneously struggling with the conservative attitudes of the past, Dirty Lines is primarily a story about liberation, entrepreneurship, and the intersection of technology and sexuality. Through bold storytelling and a vibrant aesthetic that captures the essence of the 80s, the series evokes a period of time when traditional values were being challenged by new, revolutionary ideas.

The story centers around the entrepreneurial young Marly Salomon, who is inspired by the operations of American phone sex lines. Together with her brother Frank, a slick and smooth-talking charmer, they set out to establish the first-ever Dutch phone sex line, becoming pioneers in this uncharted territory. The Salomon siblings view this venture not just as a business opportunity but as a meaningful way to facilitate untethered conversations about desires and fantasies at a time when such topics are taboo.

The phone sex line, called "Teledutch," becomes an immediate and controversial hit, due in part to its semi-anonymous nature, which allows for freedom and experimentation without judgment. As the series unfolds, the audience gets to delve deep into the personal lives and growing pains of the operators who answer the calls, the technicians who grapple with the logistics of this new technology, and the Salomons themselves, who must navigate the trials and tribulations of running such a provocative business.

Each episode serves as a time capsule, reflecting the rebellious spirit of the '80s, including its electric music scene, fashion, and club culture. The production design, costuming, and soundtrack all meticulously recreate the era, allowing viewers to immerse themselves fully in this audacious tale. Meanwhile, the show doesn't shy away from addressing the moral debates and the stigma attached to the sex industry, offering a narrative that balances drama with the complexities of social commentary.

As the business begins to thrive, Dirty Lines introduces viewers to a vast array of characters, each affected in various ways by the existence of the phone sex line. From the conservative groups that oppose Teledutch to the customers who find solace, excitement, or even an escape from their reality, the show examines the wide-reaching implications of this business.

At the heart of the story lies the Salomon family and the escalating pressure they face — both from the outside world and within their family dynamic. With success comes attention, and not all of it is positive. The siblings encounter ethical dilemmas, legal challenges, and personal conflicts that threaten to unravel their bond and the empire they've built. All the while, they have to confront their own attitudes towards sexuality and intimacy, exploring how this intersects with the changing world around them.

Dirty Lines is not only a tale of entrepreneurship but also a poignant exploration of the human condition, examining how the exploration of sexuality can lead to empowerment, confusion, and sometimes even heartbreak. It questions societal norms and demonstrates how people's lives change when they have an avenue to express their most private selves. Each character's journey offers a different perspective on the era's cultural shift related to sexual freedom and expression.

Strong performances from the cast bring the multifaceted characters to life, culminating in a drama series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. In exploring the characters' inner worlds, Dirty Lines indirectly raises questions about modern-day issues, such as the implication of technological advancements on privacy, the nature of consent, and the ongoing evolution of sexual liberation.

By the time viewers have completed the series, they will have witnessed a sensory-rich drama that boldly portrays the convergence of sex, business, and technology during a time of transformation. Dirty Lines is both a celebration and critique of the era it represents, crafted with enough depth and nuance to remain relevant in the complex landscape of today's conversations on sexuality and freedom.