French Series, ‘Manipulations,’ Depicts Pain Of Romance Fraud
When someone falls in love, it’s easy to suspend reality: To look the other way, explain away, or simply deny. Sadly, many of us have either been there or know someone else who has.
The opening scene of the six-part French series Manipulations immediately signals that a dark turn of events is about to unfold. The main character, Maud Bachelet, is undergoing resuscitation, setting the stage for something that has gone terribly wrong. Then the narrative takes the viewer back several months.
A Near Perfect Life Except…
By all measures, Maud (portrayed by Marine Delterme) is a happy, confident woman, enjoying all the trappings of her success. At the age of 52, she is CEO of a growing company, enjoys close friendships, and lives in a beautiful contemporary home. Divorced with two grown children, she lives alone with her beloved dog, Maurice.
Her childhood friend and co-worker, Deborah (played by Constance Dolle, who also appeared in the series, Murder In), urges Maud to try a dating app to meet someone who would add another dimension to her already rich life. While reluctant at first, the empty-nester decides to give it a try.
Her first date is with a warm, handsome man, Mathias Maubert (played by Marc Ruchmann), who seems to be the answer to every woman’s prayers. He is loving, solicitous, and tells her that he is a war photographer, on leave from his work because he suffers from PTSD, evoking her sympathy.
Meeting Mathias turns Maud’s life into a fairytale. The romance seems to be everything she ever hoped for.
Yet, from the outset, the viewer observes the cracks in Mathias’s near-perfect façade, though Maud remains oblivious. Not only is he deceitful, but it’s clear he also may be dangerous.
The escalating tension stems from the protagonists’ compelling performances. Mathias swiftly moves into her home and exploits Maud financially. He makes efforts to isolate her from her supports, and creates ways to set her against her family and friends. He is jealous and possessive, always leading Maud to doubt herself and her worthiness.
Romance Scams: A Universal Tale
Actress Marine Delterme is also the star of the long-running French mystery TV series Alice Nevers. In that role, too, she does an amazing job of conveying the vulnerability that can exist behind a strong exterior.
This French series is set in Lille, France, but the story is reminiscent of the popular American true crime TV series Dirty John, which starred Connie Britton. It’s a cautionary tale that, unfortunately, is common and seems to be universal when someone is longing for companionship and a loving relationship.
Where to Watch Manipulations
The six binge-worthy episodes first aired in 2021. It will be premier on MHz Choice (with English subtitles) on August 19, 2025.
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