On Thursday, January 30, 2025, the French television channel France 3 will rebroadcast the gripping telefilm "Péril Blanc," which originally aired on January 6, 2018. Directed by Alain Berliner and featuring prominent actors Armelle Deutsch and Christophe Malavoy, this murder mystery is set against the stunning backdrop of the Méribel ski resort.
The narrative kicks off on the eve of winter as the picturesque ski station prepares for its seasonal visitors. Tragedy strikes when the body of Alexandre, an ex-convict, is discovered stark naked on a ski lift during the full moon, his lips smeared with blood, and with a silver bullet lodged in his heart. This chilling setup evokes echoes of ritualistic werewolf murders, setting the stage for intrigue and tension.
Armelle Deutsch plays the role of Clara Kessler, the local investigator who returns to her roots to solve the murder case alongside her father, Georges Kessler (Christophe Malavoy), who is on the verge of retirement. Clara’s motives extend beyond professional duty; she is also seeking to reconnect with her new boyfriend, Thibault, portrayed by Guillaume Cramoisan. The investigative duo grapples with their own pasts as they navigate the rising tension between local residents and wolf conservationists, unraveling layers of revenge and old secrets.
The telefilm explores the complex relationship between nature and human interests, as Alexandre was involved with “La Meute,” a pro-wolf advocacy group. His murder raises questions about the dark intersections of rural life and ecological activism, with Clara finding herself entangled in old grievances and new threats.
Filming took place not only in the iconic Méribel resort but also in the quaint village of Tincave, located within the Bozel valley, which boasts breathtaking views. The movie’s visuals assist in establishing the chilling atmosphere and intrigue, adding depth to the characters’ emotional journeys.
The show garnered impressive viewership upon its debut, capturing the attention of approximately 4.5 million viewers, which marked it as the prime interest of the evening. With its mix of scenic beauty, emotional storytelling, and suspense, "Péril Blanc" embodies the essence of winter crime dramas. Critics have described it as relatively faithful to the genre standards, though some noted its plot could benefit from tighter dialogue and pacing.
Despite these critiques, fans of crime thrillers can expect to enjoy the compelling storyline and the strong performances from the cast. Following this rebroadcast, viewers will not only experience the thrill of the narrative but also reflect on themes of family, connection, and the conflict between modernity and tradition against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps.
For those who miss the live airing, "Péril Blanc" will be available for streaming on France.tv, ensuring audiences can savor the chilling tale of murder and mystery at their convenience. The film serves as yet another example of the distinguished production values and rich storytelling characteristic of French television cinema.