Skam, the Norwegian teen drama series that premiered in 2015, quickly became a phenomenon in its home country and beyond. The show, which explored the lives of a group of high school students, tackled issues like mental health, sexuality, and social media with a gritty, realistic edge that resonated with audiences around the world. As it gained a dedicated following, Skam also spawned remakes in several other countries, including the United States, Spain, Italy, and France.
Skam France, the French adaptation of the series that premiered in 2018, is one such product of Skam’s global influence. Like its predecessors, Skam France has found a devoted audience both in France and abroad, thanks to its relatable characters, authentic storytelling, and modern aesthetic. Here’s a closer look at what makes Skam France one of the most successful remakes of the original Skam series to date.
Cast and Characters
One reason for Skam France’s success is its talented cast of young actors, who bring a fresh energy and realism to the show. The core group of characters is made up of Emma, Daphné, Imane, Alexia, and Manon, all high school students dealing with typical teenage issues in their own ways.
Emma, played by Lula Cotton-Frapier, is a popular girl with a secret: she’s struggling with an eating disorder. Daphné, portrayed by Marilyn Lima, is a creative and free-spirited artist who’s constantly clashing with her conservative family. Imane, played by Assa Sylla, is a Muslim girl navigating the challenges of her faith, her friendships, and her feelings for another girl. Alexia, portrayed by Coline Preher, is a sexually confident young woman dealing with the aftermath of a hook-up she regrets. Finally, Manon, played by Philippine Stindel, is a quiet observer who harbors a deep, unrequited crush on Emma.
These characters and their individual struggles are rooted in the reality of modern teenage life and have resonated with audiences across cultures. Skam France is proof that authentic, relatable characters are essential to the success of a teen drama series.
Plot and Themes
Another factor that makes Skam France so compelling is its willingness to tackle complex themes head-on. The show isn’t afraid to explore sensitive topics like mental illness, sexual assault, and racism, and does so with sensitivity and nuance.
One standout storyline in Skam France Season 2 focuses on Emma’s struggle with her eating disorder. The show portrays her battle with anorexia in a way that’s authentic and compassionate, highlighting the emotional toll of the disease while also offering hope for recovery. Similarly, Season 4 tackles the issue of sexual assault with both sensitivity and realism, showing how even a strong, confident character like Alexia can be vulnerable to predatory behavior.
Skam France also addresses issues of sexuality and identity with remarkable clarity and openness. The relationship between Imane and another female character, for example, is treated with respect and tenderness, establishing them as one of the show’s most beloved couples. In fact, Skam France has been praised for its positive representation of LGBTQ characters, which is sadly lacking in many other teen dramas.
Visual Style
Finally, Skam France’s aesthetic is a key part of its appeal. Like the original Skam, the French remake uses a documentary-style approach to filming, with each episode focusing on a different character and incorporating real-time footage of social media communication.
This style not only heightens the sense of realism but also keeps the series visually engaging, with split-screens, text messages, and Instagram posts popping up throughout each episode. It’s a visually exciting and dynamic approach that reflects the way that teenagers today communicate and interact with each other.
Global Appeal
The popularity of Skam France isn’t limited to France, with the show finding a global audience on streaming services like Netflix. One reason for its international appeal is its relatable characters and themes, which resonate with viewers around the world.
But it’s also worth noting that Skam France’s success is due, in part, to the show’s willingness to adapt and evolve. The French remake understands that its audience is diverse and global, and it does a great job of incorporating different cultures and languages into its storylines. Several episodes of the show, for example, are entirely in English, reflecting the multicultural reality of Paris.
Conclusion
Skam France is proof that remakes can be successful when they stay true to the spirit of the original while also adapting to the changing world around them. By embracing modern themes and styles, Skam France has become a phenomenon in its own right, captivating audiences around the world with its authentic characters, nuanced storytelling, and visually stunning approach. Whether you’re a fan of the original Skam or new to the series altogether, Skam France is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of teen drama on TV.
