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Deception – TV Series Review
Walter Presents describes its new Finnish series _Deception_ as “a game of wealth, power, and betrayal.” You can also throw in love, loyalty, seduction, envy, jealousy, desire, and revenge—it certainly packs in all the essential ingredients of a high-stakes drama.
_Deception_ opens with lead character Riku, played by Daniel Virtanen, walking into an upmarket Helsinki gym and turning the heads of its rich clientele. Posing as a wealthy heir, he befriends the gym owner Joakim and his fiancée Linda, played by Marketta Tikkanen. Desperate to pay off debts to a criminal gang, Riku infiltrates the couple’s exclusive world of money and glamour. And, of course, he quickly falls for the very obvious charms of Linda in the process.
Lies spiral and secrets unravel. The tension between deception and desire mounts as we follow the antics of Riku and his new friends, all set against the backdrop of Riku’s harsh reality with his half-brother and his girlfriend.
The story of two contrasting worlds colliding and the poor boy falling for the rich girl is a tale as old as classical literature. But _Deception_ certainly does justice to this contemporary, passion-infused take on the haves and have-nots.
Deception, season 1. Riku (Daniel Virtanen) and Stefan (Mikael Rejström) (having a conversation.)
The obvious word to describe the series is ‘slick.’ _Deception_ depicts a world of beautiful people, enhanced by sharp direction and stylish camera work. The music is equally striking. Even if you’re not a hip-hop fan, the theme tune—with a nod to _Snabba Cash_ —will undoubtedly get stuck in your head after a few episodes.
The visual appeal of _Deception_ is certainly heightened by some sumptuous locations. Joakim’s lakeside apartment—complete with a jetty and speedboat—is to die for. And if you’re going to feature beautiful people in luxurious apartments with storylines of desire and betrayal, nude scenes are simply part of the package.
The lead characters in _Deception_ are very compelling. Riku is surprisingly likeable, and you’re drawn in with him as the twists and turns of the plot unfold. Linda is less likeable but undeniably captivating. Some supporting characters may feel somewhat weak or two-dimensional, but it won’t diminish your enjoyment of the series.
_Deception_ is a highly watchable, eight-part drama that touches on all the issues and themes that make for great Nordic TV. It stands up well against Walter Presents’ growing Finnish catalog, and, for a refreshing change, there isn’t a single old alcoholic holed up in a remote cabin anywhere in sight.
_**Deception**_ arrives on Channel 4/Walter Presents from the 28th March – let us know what you think.
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