'Van der Valk': Release date, plot, cast and all you need to know about PBS crime thriller series
'Van der Valk' is an upcoming three-part series that is the latest adaption of Nicholas Freeling's crime novels where the story is set up in present-day Amsterdam, with no pandemic of course. Airing as part of PBS's Masterpiece, this upcoming drama series is highly anticipated especially with Marc Warren playing the titular role of Pier van der Valk. Here is what we know of the release.
Release date
'Van der Valk' premieres on September 13, 2020.
Plot
The official synopsis reads: "Amsterdam — a city of bikes, boats and bodies. At least, that’s the way steely-eyed cop Piet van der Valk sees his murder-infested beat. Marc Warren ('Beecham House', 'The Good Wife') stars as the title character in Van der Valk an all-new, three-part series based on Nicolas Freeling’s legendary crime thrillers. Together (all the characters) face a trio of challenging cases that give a new slant to Amsterdam’s renowned sophistication, for it appears that the city’s stylishness and toleration go hand in hand with murder."
The official synopsis of each of the 3 episodes has already been revealed.
Episode 1 airs on September 13, 2020, at 9 pm and is titled 'Love in Amsterdam.' Its synopsis reads: "Is cynical Amsterdam inspector Piet Van der Valk’s favorite Vermeer painting the key to two senseless murders and a suspected kidnapping? In Episode 1, 'Love in Amsterdam', art, politics, and passion mix in a case that breaks in Piet’s new assistant and prompts discord with the police chief. Piet’s sidekick, Lucienne, courts death. Meanwhile, a bitter political campaign counts down to a fateful election."
Episode 2 on September 20, 2020, at 9 pm and is titled 'Only in Amsterdam' The synopsis reads: "A Muslim worker at an addiction clinic is found dead. Evidence connects her to a library where she researched religious erotica — an interest she shared with a Catholic nun. Meanwhile, Piet helps Lucienne deal with a romantic break-up."
Episode 3 airs on September 27, 2020, at 9 pm and is titled 'Death in Amsterdam'. The synopsis reads: "An eco-fashion vlogger turns up dead during his video feed. Cloovers takes special interest in the case, which uncovers a bitter rivalry between two firms dedicated to ultra-green clothing. Piet and Dahlman confront the vengeful son of a corrupt cop that they previously put away."
Cast
Marc Warren as Piet van der Valk
Warren is known for his roles as the repairman in 'Wanted' (2008), Steve Dunham in 'Green Street Hooligans' (2005), Albert Blithe in 'Band of Brothers' (2001) and Dominic Foy in 'State of Play' (2003). His most recent roles include 'Porters' (2019), 'Beecham House' (2019) and 'Flack' (2019-2020)
Other members of the cast include Maimie McCoy as Van der Valk’s right-hand woman, Lucienne Hassell, Luke Allen-Gale as sergeant Brad de Vries, Elliot Barnes-Worrell as Job Cloovers, Emma Fielding as Julia Dahlman and Darrell D’Silva as Hendrik Davie.
Creators
The series is directed by Max Porcelijn, Colin Teague and Jean van de Velde with Nicolas Freeling and Chris Murray serving as writers. Michele Buck, Chris Murray, Louise Pedersen and David Swetman serve as executive producers.
Trailer
The official trailer of the three-part series is yet to be released, stay tuned for updates. However, the network has released a preview. Marc Warren is probably the best for the series as the preview shows a bit of his excellent acting chops. While the preview goes over a few of the cases, it mostly shows how Warren as Van der Val reacts to his dating life, peers and work.
Where to watch
Catch 'Van der Valk' on September 13, 2020, at 9/8c on MASTERPIECE Mystery.
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