6.5 / 10 (based on 537 reviews)
Paris, 1871. This is a story of the women trapped in a luxury brothel, ‘Paradise’. The very young Rose came to Paris in search of her mother, former prostitute. She is trapped and forced to enroll in Paradise. Vera is 35 years. She knows that the end of her career as a prostitute is near. She is betting everything on the Baron Du Plessis, her main client, and the only one able to redeem her debt. Hortense is the owner of Paradise. She must take care of her girls and resist pressure from a suburban thug who is charging her money.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Anne Charrier, Jemima West, Valérie Karsenti, Catherine Hosmalin
Creators: Jacques Ouaniche
Directors:
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2 seasons, 16 episodes, 52-minute runtime
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Introduction to Maison Close
In the world of television, few shows manage to capture the gritty and raw essence of 19th-century Parisian life quite like “Maison Close.” Set in 1871, this French drama series takes viewers into the depths of Paradise, a luxury brothel in Paris, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the women who work there. Unlike many other period dramas that often romanticize the past, “Maison Close” presents a more unvarnished look at the struggles and realities of its characters.
The Premise
At its core, “Maison Close” revolves around the lives of three main characters: Hortense, the brothel’s manipulative owner; Véra, a coveted courtesan nearing the end of her career; and Rose, a young woman tricked into coming to Paradise and who plans her escape. The series intricately weaves their stories, exploring themes of freedom, power, and survival in a society that offers little room for women to navigate.
Why It Stands Out
What sets “Maison Close” apart from other period dramas is its refusal to shy away from the harsh realities of its setting. It doesn’t gloss over the exploitation and abuses the women endure, nor does it sensationalize their suffering. Instead, it offers a nuanced portrayal of their resilience, camaraderie, and strategies for navigating a world that views them as little more than property.
Character Depth and Development
One of the show’s strengths lies in its rich character development. Each character, from the main trio to the supporting cast, is given a backstory and motivations that add layers to the narrative. For instance, Hortense’s cold and calculating demeanor is gradually unpacked, revealing the sacrifices and decisions she’s had to make to secure her position. Similarly, Véra’s struggle with aging and Rose’s naivety and determination to escape add complexity to their characters, making them more relatable and human.
Historical Accuracy and Setting
While “Maison Close” takes some creative liberties, it does an admirable job of capturing the look and feel of 19th-century Paris. The attention to detail in the costumes, sets, and language immerses viewers in the period. The show doesn’t just use its setting as a backdrop but integrates it into the story, showing how the social and political climates of the time affect the characters’ lives.
Themes and Social Commentary
At its heart, “Maison Close” is a show about power dynamics. It explores how power is wielded, negotiated, and subverted within the walls of Paradise and in the broader society. The series delves into issues of gender, class, and sexuality, offering commentary on the limited options available to women and the ways in which they resist their circumstances.
One notable aspect of the show is how it portrays the camaraderie among the women. Despite their competition for clients and favor within the brothel, there’s a sense of solidarity that emerges, highlighting the strength found in collective support.
The Impact of “Maison Close”
“Maison Close” has left a lasting impression on its audience, not just for its storytelling and production values but for sparking conversations about history, feminism, and the portrayal of sex workers in media. It challenges viewers to reconsider preconceived notions about the past and the complexities of survival in a world stacked against you.
Why You Should Watch
For those interested in a gritty, unromanticized take on historical drama, “Maison Close” is a must-watch. Its blend of compelling characters, rich historical context, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout series. While it might not have the same level of recognition as some other period dramas, its quality and depth warrant attention.
Conclusion
“Maison Close” is a compelling exploration of life in a 19th-century Parisian brothel, offering a gritty, unfiltered look at the lives of the women who reside within its walls. Through its detailed character development, historical accuracy, and engaging storytelling, the series provides a unique perspective on a period and setting often glamorized in media. It stands as a testament to the power of television to not only entertain but to provoke thought and conversation about historical realities and the human condition.