Non mi lasciare

This Italian drama series opens with the discovery of the body of a boy in the Venice Lagoon. Evidence suggests it was probably a suicide but policewoman Elena Zonin believes his death is linked to a series of disappearences which she is convinced involves a ring of paedophiles who are selling children on the dark web. At first her superiors are unconvinced but then another boy vanishes. Setting up a team Elena has a race against time to find the boy before it is too late. Adding some extra tension to proceedings is the fact that Elena hasn't been to Venice in about twenty years; returning sees her working alongside old friend Daniele Vianello, who is now married.

I thought this was a gripping series. The subject matter is dealt with in a way that isn't too disturbing but is still tense. There is often a good sense of danger. The characters are likeable and fun to watch; the actors doing fine jobs in their roles. Venice is an impressive location; inviting in the daytime but somewhat sinister at night. Unlike too many series this has an ending that wraps things up nicely; it also provided a surprise that I didn't see coming. Overall I'd recommend this to fans of Euro-drama.

These comments are based on watching the series in Italian with English subtitles.

Italian drama 'Don't Leave Me' is certainly stylish: how could it not be, with its attractive leads and Venetian setting? It's also solidly plotted and its characters have depth. It's also not without flaws: we have a team of super-talented police with instanteous tech and a ridiculously glamorous office; and a lot of the plot twists are very heavily flagged. The chase scenes are slick but never quite feel natural. And the basic idea, that a super-powerful gang are involved in a highly sophisticated scheme to abuse children, doesn't feel true to the tawdry nature of child abuse in general. It's certainly more than a by-the-book thriller; but it doesn't quite inspire the highest levels of emotional engagement.

Although we were initially concerned that the romance from the past would overshadow this series, it didn't. The cinematography was blissful and while at times the story seemed to move slowly, suddenly there was a plot twist making you sit up and go wow. We thought the last episode was just so moving and we still think about it weeks after.

As frequent travelers to Venice we have to rate this the best cinematography of Venice and outlying islands we have ever watched. The scenery was magical and took us back down memory lane with all the familiar places. The story line was exciting, emotional and the acting was incredible. So many twists and turns of emotions between the actors and surprisingly an extremely sensitive and happy ending. Gave me a different perspective of Venice after dark and early morning. Watched the last episode last night and already talking about re watching!

This beautiful cinematic series was painstakingly crafted using very realistic character actors, a superb cast, captivating storyline, wonderful locations, breathtaking views of Venice, mesmerising cinematography, highly creative editing and magical music that carried you throughout. A faultless production with tasteful artistic direction and excellent production values. Superbly written, directed and produced. Amazing ending ... the cast and story lives on ... should pick up many awards.