Intrigues, seduction, crimes, and shattered destinies: The Serpent, co-produced by the BBC and Netflix, arrives on France 2. The series revisits the chilling journey of Charles Sobhraj. Through eight gripping episodes, it takes us back to the 1970s and the famous "hippie trail." A portrait of a fascinating and disturbing work, between thriller and historical documentary.
A series inspired by a criminal destiny
The Serpent fascinates with its realism and chilling precision. This British mini-series retraces the tortuous life of the Franco-Indian Charles Sobhraj, nicknamed the Serpent due to his ability to evade justice. The story unfolds on the famous "hippie trail" in 1970s Asia. In eight thrilling episodes, the viewer follows the hunt for a discreet and elusive killer. Thus, the series reveals a criminal long unknown to the general public.
At the heart of the series, Tahar Rahim delivers a remarkable performance as Charles Sobhraj. The French actor admits having struggled to leave the role, as the character is complex and dark. However, the series is not limited to the criminal. It also tells the story of the investigators’ determination and the victims’ omnipresent fear. Moreover, it faithfully recreates the atmosphere of an era. At that time, many young Western travelers were idealistic and naive. Consequently, they became perfect targets.
On the hippie trail: context and plot
The action begins in Bangkok in 1975. At that time, Southeast Asia attracted thousands of young Westerners. They traveled the "hippie trail" in search of freedom, adventure, or mystical experiences. Thus, many crossed paths with Alain Gautier, a pseudonym used by Sobhraj, accompanied by his Quebecois companion, Marie-Andrée Leclerc.
The couple charms their victims. They drug them, rob them, and eventually kill them. However, they operate discreetly, leaving very few traces. To escape justice, Sobhraj steals passports and traffics gemstones. An unusual anecdote: during filming, Jenna Coleman, who plays Leclerc, confessed to feeling deep empathy for her character, despite being an accomplice to the crimes. Additionally, Rahim reportedly lost nearly ten kilos to portray a drawn and cold Sobhraj.
The series highlights a key character, the Dutch diplomat Herman Knippenberg. His life changes when he notices the worrying disappearance of a Dutch couple. Thus begins a complex and frustrating investigation. Aided by his wife Angela and French neighbors, he gradually pieces together the macabre puzzle of the crimes.
An international cast serving suspense
The dramatic power of The Serpent largely lies in its cast. Tahar Rahim delivers a subtle and disturbing performance, between icy charm and psychological manipulation. Jenna Coleman, known for her role in Doctor Who, portrays Marie-Andrée Leclerc with finesse, a woman torn between love and guilt.
Billy Howle plays Herman Knippenberg with sobriety, a diplomat obsessed with the truth. A filming anecdote: Howle met the real Knippenberg to better understand his determination. Around them, supporting roles stand out, such as Mathilde Warnier, a courageous French neighbor, or Amesh Edireweera, a loyal yet frightening accomplice.
The historical reconstruction is highly precise. The sets recreate the humidity of Bangkok, the sanitized luxury of embassies, and the tension of impersonal hotels. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted filming. The team had to continue in London, where Bangkok was recreated in a studio. This transfer represents a notable technical feat.
Critical reception and public fascination
Aired in January 2021 on the BBC and then in April on Netflix, The Serpent quickly achieved great critical success. Commentators praise the suspense, vintage aesthetic, and especially Rahim‘s chilling performance. However, the series also receives criticism for its complex narration, with destabilizing flashbacks and flashforwards. Despite this, it captivates massively, contributing to the troubling legend of Charles Sobhraj.
The series thus aligns with works like Mindhunter or Unbelievable. Yet, it stands out with its exotic setting. Indeed, this era is fascinating and presents a character with multiple faces. He is both manipulative and charming.
Charles Sobhraj: the persistent legend
After forty years spent in Asian prisons, Charles Sobhraj was released in 2022 for medical reasons. His return to France rekindles media interest. Since then, his life has inspired biographies, documentaries, and even an exhibition in Bangkok. Thus, his ambiguous figure continues to fascinate as much as it disturbs.
The broadcast of the series on France 2 in July 2025 reignites debates in France. Indeed, it sparks discussions about the unhealthy fascination exerted by certain criminals. Sobhraj, who still denies the murders but acknowledges his scams, carefully maintains his mysterious image. Today, he embodies a troubling symbol of ordinary evil.
Psychological thriller, historical reflection
The Serpent captivates as much by its plot as by its moral questions. The series highlights the vulnerability of youth and the complexity of evil. It also underscores the powerlessness in the face of crimes committed far from any scrutiny. It thus powerfully reminds us that behind the most charming smile often lies the greatest danger.