Sablja

The series tells a story through several fictional characters (though some of them display attributes of real-life figures) about the period and atmosphere in the country before and after the assassination of the Prime Minister. It brilliantly portrays that time and the connection between politicians, security services, and organized crime.

The era is described exceptionally well. Of course, not all real-life figures are included, but even this simplified version is a hot mess for those who didn't live through that period. It's important to consider that in reality, around 30 people were on the wanted list, and when you add the internal and external political dynamics, you get a chaos that cannot be fully depicted in a series.

Some fictional characters are designed to combine elements of multiple real-life individuals, which is a good approach to showcasing the values people stood for during that time.

It's an excellent series for those seeking a dramatic narrative. However, if you're looking for factual accuracy and detailed insights, it's better to watch one of the many documentaries on the subject.

So far, I have mixed feelings.

The production is excellent. The opening credits are impactful, and both the music and cinematography are high quality. Thriller elements are well-executed, intense and keep you engaged.

However, the story lacks courage and a critical edge, like it's been smoothed over to avoid bothering anyone.

I'm disappointed with how Vladimir Beba Popovic was portrayed. Some key figures as well as some of today's prominent politicians aren't even mentioned (yet) and their absence is noticeable.

The "Zemun clan" members aren't well introduced, so unless viewers are underworld experts, it's unclear who's who among the many characters. It's a bit confusing!

There are too many characters who show up briefly, don't get enough development, and then disappear completely. I think the story is too complex and needs more episodes.

Milica Gojkovic and Lazar Tasic deliver outstanding performances. Their acting is refreshingly authentic and deeply sincere. Dubravka Kovjanic is superb! This might be one of her career highlights. Ljubomir Bandovic is simply outstanding. Fedja Stukan is excellent. And yes, he is very handsome! Andjelika Simic is mesmerizing in her miniature and I hope to see more of her.

As an average viewer I cannot talk about the scenario, or acting or directing or the way the story was led. I can only say that I liked it even though me and my family and friends we were all feeling awfull after every episode.

Actually I cried after each of the episode. Why? This is a tale about my country and our failure as citizens of Serbia to build better society after Milosevics regime.

The assassination of our prime minister and the events that followed it in this series are not described like how it actually happened. (Documentaries exist for those who want credibility).

Sablja is, in fact, used just as a frame to explain and describe what is happening nowdays. The autors are depicting actions that contributed to a condition of an imprisoned state where we all in Serbia live in.

The main characters are carefully selected as a policeman, a criminal in the making (by not so odd consequences) and an ambitious journalist. They are the key for understanding when and how everything went wrong. Now it is up to us to decide what should we do with this sense of injustice and wether we should overlook fake licenses and literally bloody cash.

A series with a lot of potential but ultimately failed to meet expectations. It could have been an incredibly important show, but instead, it ended up being just an ordinary series, similar to other productions by Radio Television of Serbia.

After an intriguing start, the story completely shifts towards imaginary tales of fictional characters.

This was a missed opportunity to portray real events, which are far more interesting.

So, you're left entirely at the mercy of the creators of the show, watching their made-up stories and characters. In my opinion, the storyline they came up with is below average.

Personally, I don't enjoy other series of a similar style produced by Radio Television of Serbia either. If you like Juzni vetar or Klan, then this might be the series for you. I, however, was expecting something more serious.

Although there is clearly some 'artistic license' taken with certain historical facts around this assassination and the break-up of Yugoslavia, there was enough to make it worth watching. The acting is generally very good and the pace just right. Some characters were truly despicable and hard to digest, but unfortunately, there were, and are still, far too many of these goons still active. Seeing how secret militias and certain armed/criminal groups are able to control the ruling government and institutions is a warning that this is still going on and that similarities with certain current regimes are all too familiar. History does indeed repeat itself time and time again. A sad but true commentary on the state of politics and populations that accept this corrupt and despicable way of existing. Hard to watch at times but some important themes are presented. Solid series overall.