Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Irreverent, dark German comedy has sex, smoking, swearing.
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Arthur's Law
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
The German comedy series ARTHUR'S LAW (Arthur Gesetz) stars Jan Josef Liefers as an unlucky man who can't seem to catch a break. Arthur Ahnepol is unemployed and broke, and feels trapped in his marriage to his overbearing wife Martha (Martina Gedeck). But when he meets a young sex worker named Jesse (Cristina do Rego) at the local bar and brothel on his 50th birthday, Arthur decides that he wants to restart his life with her. To do that, he knows that Martha must die so that he can collect on her life insurance policy. But every time Arthur attempts to put a plan in motion, the results are disastrous.
Is It Any Good?
This dark comedy features a man who becomes consumed by his fantasies about his mistress, and the havoc he wreaks every time he tries to make them a reality. Arthur is a pathetic creature, and his goals are far from being moral or legal. But Martha's obnoxious personality makes his behavior a little more understandable, if not excusable. This results in a pretty funny plotline in which few people are particularly likable, but their interactions result in some very funny moments.
It's well written and well produced, but some of the scenes occasionally border on slapstick, and some of the caustic lines mock things like disabilities, which can be hard to watch. While some of this is a result of cultural differences, the series pushes the envelope in a range of uniquely bizarre ways. If you like this sort of humor, Arthur's Law will not leave you disappointed.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Arthur Ahnepol and his role as the show's antihero. Arthur is dishonest and untrustworthy, but is he still likable? Are there any circumstances that justify his behaviors throughout the series?
If a U.S. adaptation of Arthur's Law was to be produced, what would it be like? Would it be as edgy as the original? Or would it have to change to appeal to larger U.S. audiences?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 7, 2021
- Cast : Jan Josef Liefers , Martina Gedeck , Cristina do Rego
- Network : Max
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : School ( Elementary School , Middle School )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 5, 2025
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