Freud

"Freud" is a thrilling and dramatic television series that first premiered on ORF 1 in 2020. This Austrian-German psychological thriller transports viewers into the fascinating world of the late 19th Century Vienna, where the acclaimed psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud is trying to make his mark. The series is an extraordinary blend of fictional storytelling and historic reality, focusing on Freud's early career and his humanistic struggle to understand the dark corners of the human mind.

The show veers from conventional historic biographies, choosing instead to delve into the uncharted territories of Freud's controversial theories. The series creates a captivating narrative where young Sigmund Freud, a neurologist struggling to establish his theories of psychoanalysis, becomes embroiled in a murderous conspiracy that leads from the depths of the subconscious to the heights of Vienna's society.

From the very first frame, viewers are immersed into the mysterious ambience of Vienna's dimly lit hallways, opulent drawing rooms and seedy taverns. The series artfully juxtaposes this classic period drama ambience with the unsettling, often disturbing themes of Freud’s theories. This combination of aesthetics breathes life into a world that is both visually stunning and thoughtfully disquieting.

"Freud" features the young psychoanalyst portrayed by Robert Finster. His character, a relentless yet troubled character, is still laying the groundwork for his revolutionary ideas on hypnosis, dreams and the unconscious mind. The series lights a depth beneath the character's intellect, exposing the vices and weaknesses that eventually instill empathy and intrigue. Ella Rumpf plays the medium Fleur Salomé, and Georg Friedrich portrays Alfred Kiss, a war veteran and police inspector. These supporting characters help create an intriguing triangle, characterized by a complex play of manipulation, desire and power dynamic.

Forging a path that combines historic period drama with elements of horror and crime thriller, "Freud" takes liberties with its eponymous character's history to shape a riveting suspenseful drama. The audience witnesses a stream of mysterious events involving séances, murders and political unrest, triggered by rational and irrational forces, both inside and outside the human mind. Freud's pursuit of truth within these bizarre, seemingly supernatural mysteries, showcase his theories in a way that's entertaining and digestible, highlighting the scientific and cultural significance of his work.

This narrative duality is the show's unique selling point. On one side, you watch a young, ambitious doctor battling societal scepticism and his turbulent personal life while propelling psychoanalysis into acceptance. On the other, there's an engaging thriller where Freud uses his analytical insights to solve grisly crimes in Vienna's aristocratic circles. The creative decision to depict Freud as a detective-like figure allows for an engaging twist on the historical biopic format.

Shot in eight parts, "Freud" is more than just another TV series. It's a daring venture that demands viewers be open to a reimagined past. It's as visually compelling as it is narratively ambitious. The cinematic quality of the series is apparent in every detail, from its carefully constructed sets and costumes that transport people to another era, to its atmospheric cinematography and sleek film production.

However, it's important to note that this show is not a biopic in any traditional sense. Those seeking an accurate portrayal of Freud’s life and work may be taken aback by the narrative liberties taken by the series. Instead, "Freud" leverages the name and operators of a famous figure to create an entirely distinct, captivating, and thought-provoking television universe.

Presenting a unique blend of psychological exploration, gruesome mysteries, and eerie supernatural elements, "Freud" dares to take risks to amaze its audience. With an intoxicating combination of detailed direction, complex characters, and multi-layered narratives, "Freud" is bound to have viewers at the edge of their seats, binge-watching episode after episode.

While at its core, "Freud" is a crime thriller, it also provides a profound exploration of the human psyche and the birth of psychoanalysis. The series boldly humanizes Freud, showcasing him as a man with struggles and uncertainties. This character depth adds flavour to the narrative and makes the series exceptional in the realm of television dramas.

In conclusion, "Freud" is a must-watch for those craving a cerebral thriller with picturesque period settings, captivating characters and narratives that stimulate and challenge. This sensitive juxtaposition of fact and fiction presents a vastly different illustration of the renowned psychoanalyst's early life, breathing new life into the dusty pages of history. It’s a daring and imaginative study of the man who forever changed our understanding of the human mind.