If you find yourself with some free time, I highly recommend checking out these foreign mini-series. You will not regret the time invested.

The Decalogue

The late great Krzysztof Kieslowski directed 10 films for a Polish TV mini-series in the late ’80s entitled, “The Decalogue.” Each 50-minute film is inspired by one of the Ten Commandments. Additionally, each film deals with an ethical dilemma, often with moral ambiguity at its core. For instance, “Can you steal your own child?”

“For 6,000 years these rules have been unquestionably right, and yet we break them every day,” Kieslowski said in reference to “The Decalogue.” These thought-provoking films are great to take in a couple at a time. A truly adventurous soul, however, could conceivably watch them all in one sitting.

The Kingdom

“The Kingdom” and “The Kingdom II” were both directed by Lars Von Trier as a Danish TV mini-series. “The Kingdom” is the name of the prestigious hospital in which the story takes place.

The hospital is plagued with the unrest from tormented spirits within. The corruption of the staff also adds to the plot. Lars Von Trier helps the story along with a type of Greek chorus consisting of two down syndrome dishwashers commenting on the action from the basement below.

It is very creative and entertaining. Even if you can only find the first four episodes (which make up “The Kingdom”) it is well worth watching.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience.  Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.