Curious by Nature: French Crime Drama Lands Sales in US, UK & More

As the global appetite for crime and thriller television continues to surge, France TV Distribution is expanding the reach of its distinctive procedural, “Curious by Nature.” The series, starring the acclaimed Florence Pernel, has secured distribution deals with broadcasters in Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Spain, Poland, and the Baltic states, signaling a growing international interest in French-produced content. These recent agreements, announced Monday, highlight the appeal of character-driven mysteries that blend compelling investigations with nuanced portrayals of everyday life.

A Former War Correspondent’s Fresh Beat

“Curious by Nature” (“Enquête parallèle” in French) centers around Fred, a former war correspondent who has traded the front lines for a local journalism beat in rural France. Played by Florence Pernel, Fred’s inquisitive nature and tenacious spirit lead her to investigate a suspicious death that disrupts the tranquility of the region. The series, originally broadcast on France 3, distinguishes itself through its deliberate pacing and focus on the protagonist’s personal life, as she navigates the challenges of building a new family with her adopted daughter, Rosa, and her mother. The show’s initial episodes, released between December 2023 and January 2025, drew an impressive average of 4.5 million viewers in France, peaking at a 24.1% share during its premiere. Tele-Loisirs praised Pernel’s “tenacious” performance, awarding the show a perfect four-star rating.

The distribution deals were finalized with Walter Presents/Global Series Network for territories including Ireland, the UK, the US, and Canada. NBCUniversal International Networks & DTC has secured the rights to air the series on Calle 13 in Spain and 13 Ulica in Poland. Further bolstering its international presence, “Curious by Nature” will also be available to viewers in the Basque Country via EiTB, in Latvia through TV3 Group, and on Aragon Swisscom’s Blue channel.

The Allure of the ‘Slow Burn’ Procedural

The success of “Curious by Nature” reflects a broader trend in television towards more character-focused and atmospheric crime dramas. Unlike the fast-paced, high-octane thrillers that often dominate the genre, this series adopts a more deliberate approach, allowing viewers to become invested in the lives of the characters and the intricacies of the investigation. This “slow burn” style, common in many French crime series, prioritizes psychological depth and emotional resonance over relentless action. The series’ creators, Armelle and Emmanuel Patron, previously collaborated on “Love (and Trouble) in Paris,” demonstrating a consistent ability to blend compelling narratives with relatable human experiences.

The production model for “Curious by Nature” is also noteworthy. Produced by France Télévisions and Brain Productions, headed by Alain Pancrazi (whose credits include “Holy Lands” starring James Caan), the series releases episodes infrequently – no more than two per year. The first four episodes were released over a period spanning from December 2023 to January 2025, with two more following in January 2026, a week apart. This unconventional release schedule allows for meticulous attention to detail and a sustained level of anticipation among viewers. This approach contrasts sharply with the binge-watching culture prevalent in many streaming services, offering a more measured and immersive viewing experience.

France TV Distribution’s Expanding Footprint

France TV Distribution, the sales arm of France Télévisions, has been actively expanding its international presence in recent years. The company recognizes the growing demand for high-quality French content and is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on this trend. France Télévisions, one of Europe’s largest public broadcasters, plays a crucial role in supporting the production and distribution of French television programs. France TV Distribution’s success with “Curious by Nature” underscores the potential for French series to resonate with audiences worldwide.

The Cast and Creative Team

Beyond Florence Pernel’s central performance, “Curious by Nature” features a strong ensemble cast including Jessyrielle Massengo, Macha Méril, and Frédérique Tirmont. Supporting roles are filled by Medi Sadoun, David Mora, David Baïot, and Annie Grégorio. The series is directed by Stéphanie Pillonca and Christophe Paturange, who bring a distinctive visual style and a keen eye for detail to the production. The writing duo of Armelle and Emmanuel Patron have crafted a compelling narrative that balances suspenseful investigation with intimate character development.

Regional Co-Production and Funding

The production of “Curious by Nature” benefited from a collaborative funding model, involving contributions from Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Cinéma, Belgium’s New Frontier Films, and RTBF. This regional and international co-production structure is increasingly common in European television, allowing for the pooling of resources and expertise. Such collaborations not only facilitate the creation of high-quality content but also promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties between different regions. The involvement of New Frontier Films, a Belgian production company, highlights the growing interconnectedness of the European television industry.

Viewing Figures and Critical Reception

The initial broadcast of “Curious by Nature” on France 3 proved to be a significant success, attracting a substantial audience and garnering positive reviews. The premiere episode in December 2023 drew 4.5 million viewers, representing a 24.1% share of the audience. Subsequent episodes maintained strong viewership, with shares ranging from 18.1% to 21.3%. This consistent performance demonstrates the series’ ability to capture and retain the attention of French television viewers. The critical acclaim, exemplified by Tele-Loisirs’ four-star rating, further solidifies the series’ reputation as a high-quality and engaging crime drama.

What’s Next for “Curious by Nature”?

Given the strong viewership figures and positive critical reception in France, coupled with the expanding international distribution network, a third season of “Curious by Nature” appears highly probable. While France Télévisions and Brain Productions have not yet officially announced plans for a renewal, the series’ success makes it a valuable asset to their programming lineup. The infrequent release schedule suggests that any new episodes are likely to be spaced out over an extended period, allowing for careful development and production. The series’ continued success will likely depend on maintaining the delicate balance between compelling investigations and nuanced character development that has defined its initial run.