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I have always been fascinated by the subject of pre and post-wall East Germany like the Deutschland series or The Same Sky. Divided We Stand is not of that caliber. The 1990s sets, cars, fashion and music were spot on. The main story line of the murder investigations and links to the arms trade at first felt authentic and had promise but was let down by the tired Buffonish Bureaucrat teamed with the Streetwise detective trope. The latter shifting from competent and assertive to cowering and confused. Cartoonish and improbable Army officers and police captains just got annoying plus other uniquely East German story lines that went nowhere. Just a very uneven series that seemed to give up trying in the last couple episode. A score of 5 is probably a good average but for a fan of the genre--disappointing.

I felt compelled to counter the previous anglo-centric review. This show is from Norway. It's in Norwegian. The cultural references may not translate. The vibe is different but no less entertaining. Subtitles can be a chore but the prize tasks so far have been excellent and easy to follow. Where the UK Taskmaster is untouchable on a throne, the Norwegian contestants are not afraid to get in his face. The first few seasons of TM UK were a little rough just like this series. Having watch the last 2 seasons I've witnessed nudity, gun shots, uncontrolled fire, handing cactus with bare hands and the lighting of fireworks without any goggles or helmets. The tasks span from very clever to completely outrageous and would never pass Health and Safety on Channel 4.

Season 10 brings Aksel Hennie, a movie A-lister in his own right. Give it a chance. I'm bingeing on it right now.

Jen, a 22 year old woman has a near death experience in a car crash. While unconscious she sees the image of her dead 14 year old sister thought to have committed suicide. Is the image an oxygen deprived hallucination or a message from beyond? Jen goes back to her small home town to find out with the help of the retired detective that always had doubts about the case. Jen's mother still owns the seedy motel that holds many secrets.

The series was well acted and well directed depicting small town life in rural Quebec. The lead actress is especially talented. The locals felt authentic and believable where everyone seems to have something to hide. Keeps you guessing without gimmicks and leaves you with a satisfying ending. I give it a solid 7 rating.