Three Pines (2022) User Reviews

I'm hooked

[kimintuitive · 8/10 · 24 December 2022]

I haven't read the books. This hooked me. Beautiful filming and pace, well put together. Good characters, and I am anticipating the episode releases every week. I suppose the only far fetched thing is so many deaths in a tiny place. But perhaps the bad energy from the history of the place is being used in the story to explain it. Can't wait for more!

Weird reviews from folks. It wasn't amateur nor badly written like those reviewers said, the characters don't come across as American... they say Alfred Molina's character did schooling in England, which helps with his accent. The other characters come across Canadian. The First Nations thread was done well.

overall a good series

[Purrceyz · 7/10 · 26 December 2022]

In general, I think that this is a good series. I'm a fan of the books but I recognize that sometimes changes are made for various reasons in adaptations and there will always be a difference between books and TV are different mediums. My husband (who has never read any of the books) also enjoyed the first season/series.

What I like about this series:

Alfred Molina's portrayal of Inspector Gamache is excellent. He beautifully captures the thoughtfulness, compassion and humanity of the character. Many of the other performances are also very well done especially Tantoo Cardinal.

I liked that they filmed in the eastern townships of Quebec, the architecture of rural Quebec is different than the rest of Canada or the northern USA. I liked that most of the cast and crew were Canadian.

The indigenous story arc of Blue Two-Rivers is unique to the television show (not in the books) and is very well written, well acted and compelling. Apparently the show's director is indigenous and they used indigenous cultural consultants. The care that was taken is evident in the show. Although Isabelle LaCoste is not indigenous in the books, I thought it was a good idea to have her characters as an indigenous character who doesn't know the culture (because she was adopted like many in the "scoop) and as an outsider in the police. For far too long in this country (Canada) the issues surrounding the treatment of indigenous people have been ignored. This arc is integrated very well into the existing stories from the book.

Areas I think could use improvement:

The issue that immediately struck me is the lack of French (there is some but not as much in the books) especially with 2 characters. Jean Guy doesn't speak English (and mistrusts English speakers) Gamache and his wife only speak French to each other. As well, realistically most Surete du Quebec business would be in French (except interviewing English speakers). I was surprised that they had Gamache speak with a standard English Canadian accent (rather than British as he does in the books) although I thought that this was probably because it might confuse people who hadn't read the books.

However, my biggest issue was the episodes often feel rushed because they cover an entire book in 2 parts and add the indigenous storyline. In some cases, I feel they would have worked better as 3 or 4 part stories. The best story in my opinion (which didn't feel rushed) were The Murder Stone parts 1 & 2.

Overall, I would recommend this show. We enjoyed it and look forward to seeing the second season/series.

Pretty well made.

[AfricanBro · 7/10 · 18 December 2022]

Haven't read the book, and if you're the same I suggest ignoring the reviews bombing it based on that because it's not uncommon for tv/movie adaptations to fail to live up to their book's grandeur or reader's expectations. There's almost always someone saying it's not as good as the book.

So from someone who hasn't read it, I think it's off to a great start. The most notable thing is that this seems like a really well made series, might not be the most mind boggling story off the bar but everything seems to be done right and has no specific weak points for me. This might sound dumb because, of course most shows are done by professionals, but this feels like it was really made by professionals.

I like the story because it feels believable, nothing eccentric yet I'm still drawn to it. I think the best part about the show is the characters and actors playing them; they feel like real people in a real town with real cases, so it's easy to draw you in. Any show can be good, but I think truly great shows are those that manage to get you immersed in them, were you feel like you're in the show, a part of it and their lives. This goes for any genre too, romance, drama and "based on true story" flicks are the obvious ones, but even fantasy or sci-fi and horror. Might not have the craziest story or characters or prismatics visuals, might not even be a 10/10 star show/movie like this one(for me); but when a show fully submerges you that you only think about what you're watching and don't even subconsciously check your phone or anything, that's a good show. Feels like a decent small town murder mystery, sorta reminds me of Mare Of Easttown.

I wouldn't say it's one for everyone, if you're looking for a bullets flying sort of rush search elsewhere, but if you're looking for a good drama to watch this is a pretty good option.

Alfred Molina shines in this bewitching crime drama

[CrimeTimeOG · 2 December 2022]

Three Pines feels incredibly refreshing in a tv world drowning in samey samey crime shows. There are many elements that have this show punching way above. Alfred Molina is truly wonderful as Gamache, a world away from our usual hard drinking troubled cops. He's kind, steeped in morality and just the man you want solving your crimes.

His dialogue is peppered with quotable lines that cut you to the core, little insights into life you never thought of. Writing at its very best.

Bringing Canada's Indigenous people to the foreground, not as mere victims but as so much more is genius. The world is so rich and Three Pines gives so much insight into their lives. The costume design, art and reservation felt very different to the usual stereotypes.

Having an Indigenous cop right up there beside Gamache puts the community front and centre in a way I've certainly never seen before.

I loved the quirky villagers and small town setting. The cinematography is wonderful and the writing sings. I got Twin Peaks vibes. Loved the music too which felt really original.

10/10 for me as Three Pines hits every spot and made me want to read the books.

Get past the first 20 mins becomes intriguing!

[alhat-337-414241 · 7/10 · 3 December 2022]

After 1st episode. I love crime murder mystery & after seeing the rating I thought I'd give this a go. It took me a while to get into it, I couldn't work out if it was deliberately trying to be kooky ( I.e Fargo esc) The acting was slightly over dramatic, after the 1st murder the show seemed to hit a groove, there was still that undercurrent of slightly being over dramatic (probably being use to a hyper real British crime drama) but I really started to gel with the characters and was intrigued by the multi threads building up. Main detective's character already feels honourable & rooting for him.

What a pleasant surprise

[terrylarosa · 9/10 · 4 December 2022]

Never heard of the books ( more into sci fi ) or this show but wow it was good. Molina shines in the lead role and as others have said plays a decent, moral, considerate and kind detective who's not drowning himself with a bottle, has gone rogue or is grieving a dead wife or all the other usual tropes in a crime show. Helped by a likable cast, beautiful scenery and a quick pace. The show will have a new case every two episodes and not drag it out for slog of eight or ten episodes which many shows try and fail to keep the interest. Admittedly I did guess the killer before the first ep was over but that didn't detract from the fun. The recent show Echo 3 threw in the towel by the fourth ep. Terrific beginning and can't wait for more.

Enjoyable

[Sara_Tor · 7/10 · 3 December 2022]

After the first two episodes, we are definitely looking forward to the next few. It's enjoyable and unique to see a series like this set in wintery Quebec. Alfred Molina does a good job playing the caring and insightful Armand Gamache, the lead investigator. I'm intrigued to see what happens with the suspicious villagers. The subplot about missing and murdered Indigenous women enhances the feeling of immediacy and relevance of the series beyond a Christie style of village murder mystery. (Disappointing to see people complaining about this topic in the reviews, since it's handled with nuance and is a *real* and relevant issue to the time and place).

The victim is a bit of a caricature villain and some of the acting is uneven but overall this is starting out as a very enjoyable series.

A real breath of fresh air

[PardonTheTruth · 8/10 · 2 December 2022]

I've just watched the first two episodes of Three Pines and am definitely a fan. The starkly beautiful Quebec setting, along with the clever and thoughtful juxtaposition of the Indigenous, French and Englih cultures is nothing short of delightful.

It is especially refreshing to see the always enjoyable Alfred Molina land such a meaty role and he certainly does not disappoint. The rest of the cast is equally well-cast and the characters seem to be well thought out.

It's truly great that the accomplished and highly respected veteran actor Tantoo Cardinal still has her fastball breaking over the plate, now that she's in her seventies.

It's decent

[javan23 · 6/10 · 22 December 2022]

It is okay, occasionally quite compelling. Great setting and it's fun to see Montreal featured in a major production. Having just spent a couple weeks in Montreal, the French Canadian elements are underplayed which is unfortunate. The tone is remarkably uneven. Comedy is broad but themes are heavy while not given much nuance either. My biggest gripe is how politically correct this show tries to be. The acting is hit or miss. Some characters dialogue is purely ideological and comes off as not only preachy but contrived. Indigenous characters are always depicted as stern, serious, angry and righteous. Indigenous peoples are not all angry left wing activists and Canadas political divide is not as black and white as portrayed.

I always prefer books

[teaguecarole · 8/10 · 4 December 2022]

I've read most of the Three Pines books, some of them more than once. I've enjoyed reading them all. When I read I make my own pictures in my mind, as I would think most avid readers do. I have the village of Three Pines pictured very much differently than that in the TV show. Mine is much more rustic and the bistro is totally not like what we see on the show. There's not as much development of the characters like the books have but maybe with time we'll see more of that. I do like Molina as Ganache. I think he is perfect. I hope anyone who hasn't read the books would do so. If you like mysteries, you will probably love Three Pines.

If only I'd stopped after the sixth episode

[valiantprince · 7/10 · 23 December 2022]

Here's what I would have said after the first six episodes: Despite claims to the contrary by some fans of the novels, the series is mostly brilliant. Beautifully filmed in (disagreeing with some) a charming locale, the stories are riveting. I could go on, but I likely would have rated this series at a 9.

Then I watched the last two episodes. Generally, these two continued in the same vein. Inspector Gamache solves the fourth series murder and the over-arching Blue Two Rivers mystery (although how he didn't catch on that his buddy was manipulating the evidence, I can't understand; it was blatant).

Then they screwed everything up in two stupid steps. First, Isabelle Lacoste comes face to face with Jean-Guy but doesn't notice that he's been drinking? And she lets him drive in a high-speed pursuit? Kind of wrecks her cred as a detective. Finally, the brilliant Inspector Gamache turns his back on the crooked cop who just committed ANOTHER murder, this time of a fellow (crooked) police officer and gets shot. It's not clearly stated that Gamache dies, but the imagery with the blue jay strongly implies as much. Dumb. Simply dumb. Killing Gamache does nothing for this series but to irritate the viewers.

It's worth your time. Great in its own right!

[rapatapatlojo · 9/10 · 5 December 2022]

Three Pines is a "slow burn" show that gets better with each episode. Just don't expect Breaking Bad or Succession. It's an adaptation of a popular mystery book series, not Dostoyevsky. A little different from the source material, it still manages to capture what's special about Louise Penny's novels. "Goodness exists." I personally think the writers couldn't have done a better job. There's a lot of heart in it and some gripping storylines. Heartbreaking at times, but also comforting. Alfred Molina portrays Armand Gamache brilliantly and his winter hat is already iconic. I'll be sad if he doesn't get an Emmy nomination TBH. Oh, and the soundtrack is just so good! I hope the show gets renewed.

enjoyable but not that faithful to books

[carolc-73168 · 6/10 · 4 December 2022]

Inspector Gamache is French Canadian and should have an accent as do many of the other individuals as many of them are not English but French. This point is important because the characters seem too much like they are from the US than Canada. The actors/actresses, are fine, but not really true to the books. Ganache in the book is clever, but much more insightful, deeply complex and strategic, thoughtful, and empathic than depicted. The episodes seem more prescriptive and portraying the residents as mysterious and scheming apparently despising each other. In the books, the residents are much better bonded and close knit. In summary the episodes are more standard fare than the rich texture of the books.

Not Three Pines; Not Louise Penny

[MontanaStreams · 3/10 · 9 December 2022]

How could a screenwriter and the producers so destroy the entire reason the Armand Gamache series is beloved and successful?

Looking at this as a standalone mystery series - trying to ignore the books - I can say that it is pretty (although not like the 'real' Three Pines), there are some twists... but then you have to ask... Who are all these people and why do I care what their names are? They have nothing whatsoever to do with the episodes. They just appear now and then and we're told who they are. It's like having extras that for some reason have names.

Looking at this as reflecting the books ... we don't get to know anything about even one character... while in the books, each is richly described, and we learn more about each in book after book, coming back again and again to be with our friends in this village (or elsewhere in Quebec).

The personalities and interactions of Gamache, Beauvoir and Lacoste are key and critical... to say nothing of Reine Marie, Clara and Peter, Gabby and Olivier, Myrna, Ruth, etc etc. Yet, we know absolutely nothing about any of them in this one dimensional who dunnit. Heck, NCIS Los Angeles explores its characters way more deeply... and its a pretty shallow show!

How can we NOT see the relationship of Gamache and Beauvoir? How is it that Beauvoir has almost no lines?! How is it that Agent Nichol isn't absolutely annoying and infuriating as she is supposed to be? Why is nobody who they should be?

When some of Tony Hillerman's books were made into TV movies, the disappointment was in the bad acting. Here, the acting from the main characters is good... but the screenwriter gave not one character - even Gamache - any depth. Such a waste of the beautiful, complex characters that Louise Penny created and the evolving relationships between them over time.

I was going to stop... but the TV people just did not "get" Three Pines itself either. In the books, it is not on any map (well, pretty much). People do not get there except by accident, or knowing the way and dropping into the hollow, below the hill, into the town on the river Bella Bella. Cell phones do not work, nor is there high speed internet. This creates the isolated locale with a fixed set of characters as used in Agatha Christie's books. On TV, there is a major paved road leading into an open (and rather ugly) small town, no isolation, cell phones work, etc, and the historic three pines are about 10 years old and spindly.

I give credit for weaving in the topic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. It has been good to see that theme also in Alaska Daily. I hope this raises awareness and action beyond those of us who live where these tragedies continue to occur on a frequent basis.

Could have been better

[Poster-Boy · 7/10 · 28 December 2022]

When I finish a series \ season I look it up on this website to see what others saw that I didn't and what what they didn't see that I did. I haven't read the books so I found it interesting that many who had, felt let down. And, those that hadn't expressed similar feelings of disappointment for the very same reasons. I also think it's interesting that women were more likely to rate it higher than men in all age groups.

I enjoyed the series. It was entertaining. Nothing too deep or complex. Although the flash backs and dreams of the inspector got a tad bit tiring. It did help present a frame for his personality.

I didn't care for the ending. Too many times we get left on a cliff and the next season will never materialize.

I've never read the books.. the Show is Superb

[pfne · 10/10 · 23 December 2022]

Consisting of 8 episodes with 4 stories spread over 2 episodes each but with an arcing story that spans the entirety.

It's a really really great set up of how to make a show like this. With each episode being under an hour you can watch a couple episodes at once and it be like a movie or you can watch all 8 in a single lengthy binge.

I waited to review the whole series as I didn't want to review it before I was done with the entirety, it ended 23rd December in the UK with the final 2 episodes landing on Prime.

I loved it. From the stories, the mysteries and the intrigue, to the performance, characters and setting.

Of they make a second season, I'll be first in line to watch.

Talented actors, working with some odd writing choices

[stacy-ward12 · 6/10 · 7 December 2022]

I am a die hard Gamache fan, and always swore that if a series was made I wouldn't even watch it, knowing it would inevitably fall SO short of the world Louise Penny has created. But, I couldn't resist. As expected, this show doesn't even come remotely close to the brilliance of the books. I think my biggest issues are with some of the casting choices, and writing choices. The village and most of the villagers are (so far) portrayed as far too sinister - which the author herself admitted is a battle she lost. The pace of the show is ridiculous - two episodes per one novel? I think that's going to be the major shortcoming of this series, as that is not going to allow any time for adequate development of any of these characters.. and without caring about the characters, viewers won't care much about the plot lines either. Such a shame, as this Three Pines world has infinite potential.

Alfred Molina seems to be a good choice for Gamache, and he's doing pretty well so far. Lacoste is likewise enjoyable to watch and pretty faithful to the heart and soul of her character. Beauvoir was not showcased nearly enough in episodes 1-2 for me to gauge how well he will hold up in this role. Gabri and Olivier are so oddly cast. Ruth is doing alright so far, as are Clara and Peter. From the little they've included her, it appears they missed the mark on Myrna by quite a bit. We'll see how things progress, but so far I am disappointed.

Atmospheric whodunnit

[jonnybrutal-350-25526 · 8/10 · 19 December 2022]

I haven't read the books so I'm watching this with no preconceptions and purely on merit. So far the series has played like an Agatha Christie with many possible antagonists while also running a backplot about disappearing indigenous girls and corruption. Alfred Molina plays the part of troubled detective brilliantly and his selection of sidekicks are excellent character driven parts. The locals that populate 3 pines are very quirky and all carry their fair share of secrets. The setting is beautifully imagined and cinematography is great. Having said all that this series is nothing new but just well done and the characters interesting enough to keep you invested. Recommended.

Alfred Molina can't do it himself

[tsh332 · 6/10 · 25 January 2023]

Not awful, not good. While I love Alfred Molina, he couldn't save this all by himself. I felt like this was Monk meets Dexter. It couldn't decide if it wanted to be comedic or suspenseful, so never really fully achieves either very well. In the eight episodes, four crimes are resolved (one every two episodes) and one larger overarching crime takes the whole season. Neither my wife felt engaged in any of the two episode crimes (you never bond with any of the victims since they die almost immediately after their screen entrances) and the season stretches crime advances methodically and mechanically. The towns characters, while sometimes amusing, were largely two dimensional caricatures with no substance to them. I identified strongest with the duck. In the end, mediocre television.

Fantastic!

[armosinomorris · 10/10 · 2 December 2022]

Just watched the first 2 episodes and I'm hooked. Great acting, great storyline. Important message about the apathy regarding missing, endangered and murdered indigenous people.

The scenery is literally breathtaking and so immersive, the winter setting is so perfect for a viewing during the holidays. Yes, the content is dark but it's done incredibly well.

Seems like each 2 episodes will be a little plot of its own and I love that idea. Alfred Molina is fantastic as always, his character has some really beautiful dialogue in this show and he delivers it all perfectly. Can't wait to see all the other episodes!

Fine enough for casual viewing

[mpatry-94591 · 7/10 · 3 December 2022]

Watched the 1st 2 episodes. Overall we enjoyed it and are compelled to continue. Acting is highly variable, from very good, to amateur. The whole "electric chair in the snow" scenario is a bit over the top - but I guess that's in the book. Didn't know it went beyond 2 episodes and wondered about the missing indigenous woman side-story - but now we learn it's a thread for further episodes. OK.

Those buildings (situation room) where the cops spend a lot of time don't look to be insulated... in winter? Directors should know better - undermines the credibility of the production.

Otherwise, it's a good tale.

Louise Penny's series is well represented

[karenharrington-69965 · 8/10 · 2 December 2022]

Just starting to watch Three Pines. If you are a fan of Louise Penny's series you will love it! The story includes the Indigenous story of missing women, so very timely for Canada. The setting in the Eastern Townships at Christmas time is beautiful. I've spent a lot of time in that area so I know very it well. I have read every Inspector Gamache book by Louise Penny so I may be a little partial but I think anyone would love this series. I am pleased that many of the actors in this series are Canadian. Tattoo Cardinal especially is an icon in Canada. Donald Sutherland's son Rosisif plays a major role.

I don't get it.

[andreaennis-93964 · 30 December 2022]

I've read all of the Inspector Gamache books and am a big fan of Louise Penny's writing style and slow burn development of characters and plotlines. I think the series producers and writers should have consulted the author more in all aspects of the show. Some characters are miscast and the dialogue stilted and parts overacted (Ruth and Myrna).

I'm bummed that Gamache is portrayed as a shuffling schlump with enormous glasses and visible neuroses. I don't get why his flaws and triggers are so simplified as to render him a man near nervous breakdown instead of the pillar of strength he represents to all that know him. In the books his frailties are revealed little by little as are the secrets of each of the other supporting characters.

I feel like I've been plopped in the middle of the books with timelines disregarded and atmosphere ignored and storylines jumbled up.

The set looks like a movie set on a back lot in Hollywood, not a town surrounded by the Canadian wilderness with no internet access.

On the plus side the actors portraying LaCoste, Beauvoir, Clara, Peter, and ReineMarie are spot on.

The relationship between Gamache and ReineMarie is integral to the series. I'm not convinced of the chemistry between the actors.

One item that perplexes me...isn't Gabriel the heavy set one and Olivier the thin one? Am I mistaken, or confused?

Despite my criticism the show I'll not give up on the show because I really want it to succeed.

Good but wished for more

[Alpie · 7/10 · 21 January 2023]

The positives: Alfred Molina is the heart and soul of the show. He carries himself with grace and calmness. The show is amazingly picturesque, I wish we got to see more of the surrounding area. Finally, you have to commend the use of so many indigenous people in the show.

The negatives: the characters- the town is full of horrible people, who very quickly become tiring. Some may have a quirky trait but are nothing much more beyond that. And the Blue-Jean family are a different level of annoying, their reactions, responses, approach just comes across as overly melodramatic. The suffer from bad writing and bad direction. But my biggest issue with the show is the mystery/whodunnit aspect, the reveals are so mundane.

So what you're left with is either a murder mystery show, where the mystery is mundane or a drama where the characters outside of the lead are shallow and unlikeable.

Disappointing Ending - so ridiculous

[lilboom65 · 1/10 · 3 January 2023]

My husband and I watched this over the course of a week and was intrigued by how the policeman solved each murder. The setting was fun to watch and we like the Canadian filmed shows. As we were watching we were thinking people gotta get out of this town. It's doomed. So many loose ends as the story went on and on. Then get to the end and the detective doesn't see what's coming? Was very disappointed that this man solved so many murders but couldn't have rhe forethought if this own? Haven't read the books but feel like this makes the viewer looks stupid. We feel we wasted a whole week. Don't watch it.