Thieves of the Wood

The creators of the series (or rather Louis Paul Boon, the author of the novel on which it was based) did not worry too much about historical accuracy, but it's to be expected in works of this kind. I was more surprised when I read that the Belgians themselves were not that keen on this folk "hero".  I enjoyed it for the most part, but it’s true that the script suffered from an increasing number of shortcomings in the last third. (2021-03-18)

The first episode really got me hooked. While it might not have been an extravagantly expensive production, the atmosphere of the forest settlement felt almost tangible, and I'm thoroughly enjoying the plot so far. (2021-03-15)

The episode really brought some plot twists that I enjoyed. Particularly, the sale (sorry, courtship) of Héloïse stood out to me - I could practically hear the staunch feminists gritting their teeth! The Belgians are doing a good job of holding my attention so far, and they haven't even deployed JCVD yet. (2021-03-15)

While the third episode may have had a less intricate plot compared to previous ones, it was still quite entertaining. The mayor taking inspiration from progressive American institutions was intriguing, and I also enjoyed the joint hunt of the engaged couple. Kudos to the excellent costume design as well! (2021-03-15)

The creators are keeping up the good work, maintaining the decent level they set with the excellent first episode. While I'm not getting a deep historical enrichment from the series, it's still an entertaining spectacle for me. (2021-03-16)

The series still lacks that 'something' for a five-star rating, but it's enjoyable enough for me to give it four. I also appreciate that the close-ups of Charlotte Timmers' face don't trigger an anaphylactic shock or night sweats, unlike another specific actress. (2021-03-16)

This episode delivered a truly WTF moment when one character demonstrated regenerative abilities akin to Wolverine. Surprisingly, this didn't lower my rating because the creators won me over with some very realistic bits of brain. (2021-03-16)

The episode had an interesting plot, and the other aspects I've enjoyed about the series since the beginning are still there. However, the creators did leave me a bit disappointed this time; it's becoming evident that there will be a certain twist... 4*- (2021-03-17)

The eighth episode turned out to be the weakest for me so far. Its plot felt transparent, like a beautifully polished shop window. If Mr. Boon wrote it this way in his book, he should count himself lucky that Annie Wilkes didn't show him what she's capable of. While the execution was okay, the script left much to be desired. (2021-03-17)

The usual pattern with series is to save the best for the finale, but it seems the creators here went all out right from the start. Now, as we approach the finale, it feels like they're running out of steam. While there were some standout moments, the writing isn't maintaining the consistent quality I've come to expect. 4*- (2021-03-18)

Despite mostly enjoying the series, the finale barely scraped by with a weak three-star rating. I found the conclusion to be a complete misfire by the creators, leaving me with a bit of a neck ache from all the head-shaking in disbelief at the storyline. 3*- (2021-03-18)