The Defeated

Berlin detective investigates amidst post-WWII chaos

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About The Defeated

Released: 2020

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Season

Cast
Taylor Kitsch, Nina Hoss, Logan Marshall-Green, Michael C. Hall, Tuppence Middleton, Mala Emde, Maximilian Ehrenreich, Sebastian Koch, Anne Ratte-Polle, Lena Dörrie, Benjamin Sadler

About The Defeated

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About

The Defeated (original title: "Shadowplay") is a drama TV series that premiered in 2020. Set in post-World War II Berlin, the show follows the story of an American cop, Max McLaughlin, who arrives in the city to help establish a police force and track down a serial killer. Max becomes entangled in the complex web of political intrigue and corruption, as Berlin becomes a Cold War battleground between the East and the West.

The series delves into the aftermath of the war, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and personal demons. It offers a dark and atmospheric portrayal of Berlin's gritty and divided landscape, with a compelling storyline that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Making / Production

The Defeated is a collaboration between various production companies, including Tandem Productions and StudioCanal. The show is created by Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, who also serve as directors. The series features a talented ensemble cast and has been praised for its meticulous attention to detail in recreating the post-war era in Berlin.

Actors

  • Nathanial Parker as General Eisenhower - Parker portrays the American general who has a decisive role in the reconstruction of Berlin.
  • Taylor Kitsch as Max McLaughlin - Kitsch portrays the American cop who is haunted by his past and thrust into the chaos of post-war Berlin.
  • Michael C. Hall as Tom Franklin - Hall plays an American diplomat who becomes entangled in the city's political turmoil.
  • Sofia Helin as Elsie Garten - Helin takes on the role of a resourceful German woman who crosses paths with Max McLaughlin.
  • Lena Olin as Frau Merten - Olin plays a mysterious and influential woman with her own hidden agenda.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The series was inspired by true events and real people who worked to rebuild Berlin after World War II.
  • The Defeated was filmed on location in Prague, Czech Republic, which provided a suitable backdrop for recreating 1940s Berlin.
  • The show tackles various important historical events, such as the Berlin Airlift and the formation of the German Democratic Republic.

Awards

No awards have been announced for The Defeated at the time of writing.

Quotes

  • "In a city torn apart, he came to find himself." - Max McLaughlin
  • "Berlin is a city of secrets." - Elsie Garten

Music, Soundtrack

  • The soundtrack of The Defeated features a blend of original compositions and iconic songs from the post-war era, creating a haunting and atmospheric backdrop for the series.
  • Notable tracks include "Mack the Knife" by Kurt Weill and "La vie en rose" by Edith Piaf.