Discover why Saint-Pierre is unlike any other Canadian crime drama. This CBC detective series blends European mystery with North American grit. Read more on Flickcore.us.
A European Mystery on North American Soil
There has never been a Canadian crime series quite like Saint-Pierre. This fresh CBC procedural brings a fascinating mix of European flair and rugged North American grit, making it one of the most intriguing detective dramas in recent memory.
Set on the small yet historically rich island of Saint Pierre, just off the coast of Newfoundland, the series delivers an atmospheric setting that feels straight out of a British mystery—but with a distinctly Canadian heartbeat.
The Vision Behind Saint-Pierre
Actor, writer, and series creator Allan Hawco was immediately drawn to the idea of filming on Saint Pierre. The French-controlled island, home to fewer than 6,000 residents, offers a setting unlike anywhere else.
“I wanted to make a show here because the place was screaming at me,” Hawco explains. “It’s mysterious, visually striking, and completely unique.”
Hawco, known for his work on Republic of Doyle, stars as a Newfoundlander detective exiled to Saint Pierre after clashing with a local politician. His character—a fish-out-of-water in a tight-knit community—mirrors the fascinating contradictions of the island itself.
“It’s a small place that behaves like a big city,” Hawco notes. “It has this metropolis feel in such a condensed area. That’s what makes it perfect for a detective show.”
A Production Unlike Any Other
Filming in Saint Pierre came with logistical challenges. Unlike major production hubs, the island lacks the usual infrastructure for television shoots. There are no equipment rental houses, limited lodging options, and even the electrical outlets differ from standard Canadian ones.
“Everything was difficult to figure out,” Hawco admits. “From accommodating the crew to ensuring we made a top-quality show without disrupting the locals—it was a massive puzzle.”
Yet, the remoteness of Saint Pierre adds to the show’s charm. “Anything worth doing isn’t easy,” he adds. “And this place is worth it.”
The Challenge of Crime in a Crime-Free Town
One of the biggest hurdles? Saint Pierre isn’t exactly a hotbed for crime. The island is incredibly safe, with a crime rate too low to sustain a typical police procedural.
Hawco tackled this with artistic liberty. “The visuals alone make you feel like something nefarious is happening,” he explains. “It’s this strange middle ground—part of North America but just a short flight from the EU. That sense of in-betweenness creates endless storytelling possibilities.”
A European-Inspired Detective Series
Unlike many North American cop shows, Saint-Pierre leans heavily into European detective drama influences. From Shetland to Scott & Bailey, the series takes cues from British crime storytelling, blending breathtaking scenery with intricate character-driven narratives.
“It’s structured like a procedural, but it lives in the world of a European-style mystery,” Hawco says. “It’s neither fully North American nor fully European—it exists in its own space, just like Newfoundland and Saint Pierre themselves.”
A Show That Breaks New Ground
With its striking setting, compelling lead, and a detective story that blends mystery with cultural intrigue, Saint-Pierre is shaping up to be a must-watch crime drama.
What do you think of Saint-Pierre’s unique approach? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
