On March 10, 2025, TF1 launched its new judicial series ‘Carpe Diem,’ starring Samuel Le Bihan as Tom Villeneuve, making waves for both its engaging plot and the actor’s charismatic performance. The show dives deep not only onto the sunny streets of Nice, where it is set, but also addresses the serious themes of injustice and redemption.
Tom Villeneuve’s story is a poignant one: after spending 17 long years behind bars for a crime he did not commit—the murder of his wife, Anna—he emerges from prison not just with longing for vengeance, but with the desire to make things right by helping others. With the determination to defend the innocent, he becomes a criminal lawyer, refusing to let his past define him. “We wanted a generous character who has lost everything but is still capable of rejoicing, enjoying life, and loving people,” Le Bihan noted during the Festival de la Fiction de La Rochelle. Tom embodies this ‘Carpe Diem’ philosophy—seizing every moment after so many were unjustly taken from him.
Le Bihan pairs his character with two eclectic assistants: Sigourney (played by Jisca Kalvanda) and Simon (Henri Giey). Together, they navigate the conflicts of defending the innocent, often employing some unconventional methods. Critics have noted this dynamic as one of the show's high points, adding both flair and humor to the procedural drama.
Despite Le Bihan's dynamic portrayal, reactions from critics have been divided. While VL Média praised the series as "entertainment in the purest tradition," Télérama was less enthusiastic, highlighting how 'Carpe Diem' struggles to convince due to its predictable plotting. “Carpe Diem can be seen as entertainment,” they stated, yet couldn't help but note, “it tends to fall back on clichés within the genre.”
‘Carpe Diem’ doesn’t shy away from mixing comedic elements with crime and investigation. It boldly seeks to depict the struggle between the marginalized—represented by Villeneuve’s character—and the wealthy elite, sketching out captivating character arcs along the way. "Despite the mishaps he faces, he is someone who remains optimistic and has decided to be focused on happiness, whatever happens," said Le Bihan, accentuating his character’s resilience.
The series aims to resonate beyond its storylines; it looks to reflect the ever-present disparities throughout society, using Villeneuve's plight as both motivation and narrative thrust. Important themes like resilience, redemption, and forgiveness loom large as Tom seeks to clear not only his own name but also the names of other innocents unjustly accused.
While some segments of the audience may find the formula of 'Carpe Diem' familiar, its lighthearted approach and high-energy performances breathe fresh life—a form of ‘feel-good’ drama revitalizing what could easily become melancholic themes. Tom’s stories often involve humor woven through with necessary poignancy. He dives headfirst—quite literally—into the Mediterranean Sea for the sake of getting justice, engaging viewers with both thrilling escapades and moments of levity.
The structure of the show, comprising six episodes, tackles complex emotional landscapes using easily digestible comedic segments, establishing Villeneuve as not just another protagonist, but someone deeply human who demands empathy. “When I started writing, I wanted to breathe life and color back to the genre,” remarked Le Bihan, inspired by 70s cinematic icons like Jean-Paul Belmondo—heroes who were both flamboyant and relatable.
If comparisons arise to other series, it is worth noting how ‘Carpe Diem’ manages to permeate the genre with its unique twist. The compelling performances coupled with the sunny backdrop of Nice provide viewers more than just legal drama; they deliver moments of genuine connection and laughter alongside its heavier themes. The viewer is invited not just to witness justice being served, but to celebrate life and resilience through Tom's optimistic lens.
All things considered, ‘Carpe Diem’ seeks to balance its lighter moments with the darker shadows of its narrative concerning wrongful conviction and loss. The show encourages viewers to reflect on matters of justice and humanity—while reminding us all through its protagonist's vivacity and relentless drive, the importance of appreciating every fleeting moment, especially after facing life’s harshest trials. It carves out its niche among judicial dramas, making it something worth tuning to, if only for the joy it draws from the act of living freely once again.
Catch the first two episodes of ‘Carpe Diem’ airing at 21:10 on TF1.