Dec. 21, 2023
By Jason Oliveira
Staff Writer
Like some other great investigative shows, the Brazilian action thriller series “Criminal Code” starts by introducing an insubordinate, work-addicted federal agent Benício (Rômulo Braga) who is dedicated to bringing the criminal who killed his previous partner to justice.
Benício has had multiple partners due to his erratic behaviors and self-interest. To the surprise of police chief Wladimir (Tiago Real), federal agent Suellen (Maeve Jinkings), who has recently become a mother, expresses her desire to work in the field again, this time with Benício as her partner.
Although Wladimir thinks Suellen would be more comfortable at a desk, she insists she will work well with Benício and keep an eye on him. The two agents are assigned by Benício’s boss, Rossi (Pedro Caetano), to investigate a cigarette smuggling case in Alvorada.
At the start of their investigation, Benício purposely misleads Suellen to investigate the Progaurd robbery that took place across the Brazilian border in Paraguay, which he believes is linked to his partner’s murder. They discover the group of criminals crossing back over the river and flee before being spotted. However, in their attempt to escape, they run into the criminals and get shot at.
Then, the criminals split up, scattering to avoid the backup that was radioed in. The two agents are able to escape, capture most of the criminals and reunite. This is the beginning of a big investigation that connects the dots, but there is a conflict in the case regarding jurisdiction between Brazil and Paraguay.
Benício and Suellen are tasked with linking other crimes to the robbery to prove it originated in Brazil so they can be the lead investigators. Yuri (Giovanni De Lorenzi) is the forensic scientist who is brought in to collect, analyze and connect all the DNA evidence to establish jurisdiction by linking the robbery to an earlier prison escape in Iguaçu Falls.
While those interested in crime dramas may appreciate learning about chain of custody, subpoenas and warrants, other viewers might find the scenes exposing the police’s gritty work tedious.
Meanwhile, the two crime syndicates that are involved have a bitter rivalry but team up to plan their biggest heist yet.
Based on a real-life heist and investigation that took place in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay in 2017, “Criminal Code” has an intriguing plot that immerses viewers in the world of policing and the criminal mind. It contains explosive action scenes including intense chases, criminal takedowns, shootouts and stakeouts.
The special effects play a significant role as well by making the events seem real. Without the special effects, the explosions and shootouts in the show would not be as captivating.
It is fascinating to learn about the challenges that cops face when investigating crimes, and the well-shot scenes showcase the forensics process. However, these scenes could be shortened or removed to make the show more action-packed.
While those interested in crime dramas may appreciate learning about chain of custody, subpoenas and warrants, other viewers might find the scenes exposing the police’s gritty work tedious. Furthermore, people who are less familiar with the investigative process may feel lost.
The last episode ends on a cliffhanger, and although the show has not yet been renewed, the ending foreshadows another intense season to come.
Hopefully, the next season will be better organized with fewer loose ends and more clarity because the plot has so much potential. It’s not for everyone, but watching “Criminal Code” will be time well spent for crime drama enthusiasts.
