Retired Safecracker’s Heist: A Gritty Return to Crime

The opening shot of Crooks lingers on Frederick Lau’s Charly, his fingers trembling as he holds a priceless coin—his past and present colliding in a single frame. This moment sets the tone for the German thriller drama series that premiered on Netflix in April 2024: a tale of redemption, family, and criminal rivalries.

Created by Georg Lippert, Benjamin Hessler, and directed by Marvin Kren, Crooks follows Charly, a retired safecracker drawn back into the underworld when his quiet life in Berlin is disrupted. Teaming up with a small-time gangster (Christoph Krutzler), they embark on daring heists across Europe, all revolving around a single, priceless coin that pits rival gangs against each other.

The series marks Kren’s second collaboration with Frederick Lau and Kida Khodr Ramadan after 4 Blocks (2017), a partnership that brings a familiarity to the gritty Berlin underworld. The principal photography wrapped in August 2022, culminating in a six-episode season that blends intense character studies with high-stakes crime narratives.

What works best in Crooks is its cast. Frederick Lau delivers a performance anchored in quiet intensity, his Charly a man haunted by his past but determined to protect his family. Lau’s portrayal is nuanced, capturing the internal conflict of a retired criminal forced back into a life he thought he had left behind. Christoph Krutzler brings a rough-around-the-edges charm to his role, creating a compelling dynamic between the two leads. Their chemistry is the series’ strongest asset, driving the narrative forward with genuine tension and camaraderie.

Svenja Jung adds emotional depth as Charly’s partner, her performance grounded in authenticity. Erdal Yıldız and Nima Yaghobi provide strong support, their characters adding layers of complexity to the criminal underworld. Karl Welunschek stands out with a commanding presence, his portrayal of a ruthless gang leader adding gravitas to the series.

The series also benefits from its grounded approach to heist narratives. Unlike many action-heavy thrillers, Crooks takes its time building tension, focusing on character relationships and moral dilemmas. The soundtrack by Stefan Will and Schallbauer complements this, with its moody synths and pulsating beats adding a layer of atmosphere that heightens the drama.

However, Crooks isn’t without its flaws. While the character-driven approach is refreshing, it sometimes comes at the expense of pacing. The first few episodes feel sluggish, with the plot taking too long to gain momentum. Additionally, the action sequences, while competently shot, lack the visceral impact needed to truly thrill. The series also suffers from predictable twists and a weak ending that fails to deliver the emotional or narrative payoff it promises.

Moreover, the series’ attempt to blend family drama with crime thriller elements doesn’t always gel. While themes of redemption and parenthood are explored, they often feel tacked on rather than organically integrated into the story. This disconnect is particularly evident in the later episodes, where the focus shifts abruptly from character development to plot mechanics.

The direction by Marvin Kren is solid but unremarkable. Kren’s experience with urban crime dramas shines through in his ability to create a gritty, authentic atmosphere. However, his approach lacks the visual flair that could elevate Crooks above other entries in the genre. The cinematography is functional, with a reliance on handheld camera work and dimly lit interiors that, while effective, don’t stand out.

The series’ exploration of Berlin’s criminal underworld provides a gritty backdrop that feels authentic. The production design and locations add to the sense of place, immersing viewers in the city’s seedy side. However, the series struggles to differentiate itself from other crime dramas set in similar environments. The lack of distinct visual or narrative identity makes it difficult for Crooks to carve out a unique space in a crowded genre.

Despite these missteps, Crooks offers enough compelling moments to keep viewers engaged. The chemistry between Lau and Krutzler is undeniable, and the series’ exploration of Berlin’s criminal underworld provides a gritty backdrop that feels authentic. The themes of redemption and family are explored with sincerity, adding emotional weight to the narrative.

The series also benefits from its international appeal. As a German production available on Netflix, Crooks has the potential to reach a global audience. The blend of action, drama, and crime elements makes it accessible to fans of various genres. However, its slow pacing and lack of standout moments may limit its broader appeal.

In comparison to other recent crime dramas, Crooks falls short of the mark set by series like Gangs of London or Snowfall. While it shares their gritty realism and complex characters, it lacks the same level of intensity and innovation. The action sequences in Crooks are competently executed but lack the cinematic flair that defines other entries in the genre.

The soundtrack by Stefan Will and Schallbauer is a highlight, its moody synths and pulsating beats adding a layer of atmosphere that heightens the drama. The music complements the series’ tone, enhancing the tension and emotional weight of key scenes. However, it’s not enough to elevate the overall viewing experience.

Ultimately, Crooks is a solid but unremarkable entry in the crime thriller genre. Its strengths lie in its performances and grounded approach to heist narratives, while its weaknesses include slow pacing and predictable plot twists. The series offers enough compelling moments to keep viewers engaged, but it lacks the innovation and intensity needed to stand out.

Crooks is a series for fans of character-driven crime dramas who enjoy exploring the moral dilemmas of their protagonists. However, those looking for fast-paced action or groundbreaking storytelling may find it lacking.