# “Monsieur Spade”: A Neo-Noir Thriller You Won’t Want to Overlook on Netflix
This past summer, Netflix broadened its streaming offerings by incorporating several of AMC’s most beloved television series, including *Fear the Walking Dead* and *Preacher*. Among these new additions lies a rare find that has gone unnoticed by numerous viewers: the neo-noir miniseries *Monsieur Spade*, featuring Clive Owen. If you relish slow-burn mysteries steeped in a noir vibe, this is a series you definitely need to see.
## A Follow-up to a Timeless Classic
*Monsieur Spade* serves as a spiritual continuation of Dashiell Hammett’s 1930 literary masterpiece *The Maltese Falcon*, which first introduced audiences to the private investigator Sam Spade. In this AMC miniseries, Clive Owen embodies Spade, who is now older and living a retired life in the South of France. The narrative unfolds decades after the events of *The Maltese Falcon*, as Spade seeks to enjoy his serene retirement. Yet, as often found in noir tales, tranquility is fleeting.
## A Shocking Murder and a Supernatural Element
The peace of Spade’s retirement is abruptly disrupted by the brutal murders of six nuns at a nearby convent. The killings appear to relate to a child possessing extraordinary abilities, compelling Spade to leave retirement and unravel the enigma. The series skillfully intertwines traditional noir aspects—featuring a hard-boiled detective and a multifaceted mystery—with an unexpected supernatural twist, setting it apart within the genre.
## A Gradual Thriller
With only six episodes, *Monsieur Spade* is an ideal weekend viewing experience. Although it may lack high-octane action, the series shines in its ability to build a tense, immersive narrative. Enthusiasts of slow-burn mysteries will value the thoughtful pacing and elaborate plot. Clive Owen’s interpretation of Sam Spade has garnered widespread acclaim, with *The Wall Street Journal* remarking that “Mr. Owen manages to keep things on point, despite the series’ playful approach to time itself.”
## An Aesthetic and Narrative Extravaganza
The show’s creators, Scott Frank (*The Queen’s Gambit*) and Tom Fontana (*Oz*), have produced a visually impressive series. The scenic South of France acts as a beautiful backdrop for the dark and gritty storyline, while the dialogue brims with the sharp wit and tension that noir fans anticipate. As noted by *The Hollywood Reporter*, “The narratives simply don’t converge often enough in *Monsieur Spade*, but with stunning visuals, electric dialogue, and Owen’s finest TV performance in years, there’s still ample reason to give this iconic character fresh vitality.”
## An Essential Watch for Scott Frank Enthusiasts
If you admire Scott Frank’s earlier works, such as *The Queen’s Gambit* and *Godless*, chances are you’ll find enjoyment in *Monsieur Spade*. This marks Frank’s first television endeavor since *The Queen’s Gambit*, which stands as one of Netflix’s most lauded original series. Frank’s talent for crafting engaging characters and intricate narratives is prominently displayed in *Monsieur Spade*, solidifying its status as a must-see for his fans.
## Conclusion
Though *Monsieur Spade* may not have garnered the same spotlight as some of AMC’s other offerings, it’s a hidden treasure that warrants discovery. With its mix of traditional noir storytelling, supernatural twists, and a remarkable performance by Clive Owen, this series will captivate you from beginning to end. If you’re in search of a fresh mystery to delve into, *Monsieur Spade* is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
So, prepare your snacks, lower the lights, and get set to immerse yourself in one of this year’s most underrated noir thrillers.
