Mandamentos de um Serial Killer

The story has its merit. Unfortunately the writers lose control after a while. Instead of being more gripping, the story just gets less believable. A pity, because the actors are doing a great job and the direction is spot on.

I've enjoyed much Belgian crime TV series in the past, such as "The Break", "Salamander", "De Dag" and others, so I was eager to watch "13 Commandments" (original title: "13 Geboden") even though it is a rather lengthy show for my taste (13 episodes in total). The story is a classic serial-killer police procedural with a killer nicknamed "Moses" by the press who tortures his victims without killing them but leaving them traumatised and scarred for life. The plot is moving forward in a fast tempo and there is a colossal twist in episode 10 that leaves the viewer aghast. After that, you see the story through a totally different perspective. While it sounds, and on a certain level truly is, another formulaic crime show, "13 Commandments" has some merits that make it stand out in a positive way. The characters are nicely outlined, especially the two protagonists, Peter and Vicky, each having their own problems and troubled past. Furthermore, I found Dirk van Dijck's performance as Peter to be outstanding and after finishing watching this one, I instantly searched his filmography in order to see more of his work. The production values of the show are at a high level, as always in the Belgian cinema and television productions and overall I can safely say that "13 Commandments" is a binge-worthy series and many of you will watch it in one or two sittings.

Once again a very good Belgian crime series! As always a fantastic casting. Every actor is great and the story is intriging, dark and tense. Better than most american crime series!

Although the story sometimes seems disjointed, this is because there are flashbacks put in at odd places. But it all makes sense. This is worthy of binge watching but I would suggest something light every couple of episodes. It can be a little heavy, but it never bores. This isn't an action movie, it plods along at a steady pace. The characters evolve steadily as does the storyline. It needs to be watched carefully and not just glanced at.

Can't believe all the negative reviews saying the writing is bad or the plot is illogical or unbelievable. Common people, it's fiction. Belgian fiction. With rather good direction, cinematography. Great grading and coloring creating a film noir like atmosphere. And the acting is good with hardly a false beat. The story could've been more condensed. After an okay mid part, the ending pays off. Just see for yourself.