One of the downsides of today’s oversaturated streaming TV market is that appears that Netflix, Amazon, HBO Max (or whatever they are calling themselves these days) and Disney+ haven’t spent enough time promoting certain shows within their sprawling ecosystem. Far too often series like Belgian’s Rough Diamonds can go unnoticed. Premiering on Netflix on April 21, 2023, this compelling drama delves into the intricate and often clandestine world of the Orthodox Jewish diamond dealing community in Antwerp. Created by the talented duo of Rotem Shamir and Yuval Yefet, Rough Diamonds is a riveting exploration of faith, family, morality and the relentless pursuit of wealth.
Obvious spoilers if you read ahead.
The show revolves around Noah Wolfson (played by Kevin Janssens), who returns to Antwerp after the suicide of his younger brother, Yanki. Noah reconnects with the Haredi community he left when he abandoned the Orthodox faith for a less traditional path in London, while also trying to rescue his family's diamond trading business from the pressures of organized crime and a zealous local prosecutor (Els Dottermans).
The strength of shows like The Sopranos, Gomorrah and Suburra - Blood on Rome comes from the interplay and contrast between the authenticity of the relationships in the family and the criminal underworld where they operate, Rough Diamonds can add another layer into the mix.
Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world and its roots in the Orthodox Jewish community run deep. The series explores the religious values and restrictions, community dynamics, and customs of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community at the centre of the city’s diamond trade and contrasts that with the longstanding connection, the industry has with criminal elements.
The authenticity of the relationships in Rough Diamonds is enhanced by the cultural and religious context. The characters' interactions are deeply influenced by their ultra-Orthodox Jewish faith and traditions, adding depth and nuance to their relationships and to the complex moral issues at play. This adds another layer of tension and conflict to the narrative, as the characters struggle to reconcile their religious beliefs with their actions in the criminal underworld.
Most characters in Rough Diamonds are complicated personalities, pushed and pulled by various forces. They are driven by loyalty to their family and community, but their actions often involve deceit, betrayal and illegal activities. This moral complexity is a central theme of the series, reflecting the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals involved in the diamond trade and the criminal underworld.
Family dynamics are at the heart of the show. The series dives deep into the intricacies of family relationships, exploring the struggles and sacrifices that come with maintaining a generation-spanning business. The grief and pain of losing a loved one, the trauma of abandonment and the search for redemption are explored with sincerity. The Wolfson family, despite their internal battles, must band together to protect their legacy and honour.
Noah's journey to save his family's diamond trading business is fraught with challenges, from financial and legal troubles to personal conflicts and cultural tensions. His street smarts and understanding of the diamond trade become the lifeline that the family needs to save its diamond dynasty.
Rough Diamonds may not get the promotional push from Netflix you would expect with a show with all the elements to make it into the streaming provider’s coveted Top 10 list, but that shouldn’t slow the dedicated binge-streamers or those who already want a second season of the European crime drama.