Where to watch The Serpent in Australia
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About The Serpent
The remarkable story of how murderer Charles Sobhraj was captured. As the chief suspect in unsolved murders of young Western travellers across India, Thailand and Nepal’s ‘Hippie Trail’ in 1975 and 1976, Sobhraj had repeatedly slipped from the grasp of authorities worldwide to become Interpol's most wanted man, with arrest warrants on three different continents.
- Year
- 2021
- Genres
- Drama, Mystery, Thriller, Crime
- Seasons
- 1
- Top cast
- Tahar Rahim, Jenna Coleman, Ellie Bamber, Billy Howle, Mathilde Warnier
The Serpent trailer
Play video: The Serpent trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
The Serpent is a meticulously crafted miniseries that delves into the chilling life of Charles Sobhraj, a man whose charisma masked his sinister nature. Directed by Tom Shankland, the series unfolds with a slow-burn intensity that immerses viewers into the 1970s backdrop of the Hippie Trail. Tahar Rahim's portrayal of Sobhraj is nothing short of captivating, embodying the duality of charm and menace that defined the real-life figure. The cinematography beautifully captures the vibrant yet dangerous locales, enhancing the narrative's tension. Each episode serves as a compelling investigation into not just Sobhraj's crimes but also the cultural dynamics of the era. The storytelling is both engaging and unsettling, prompting reflection on the vulnerability of those seeking freedom and adventure. While the pacing may feel deliberate at times, it ultimately serves to heighten the suspense. The Serpent is a haunting reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath a seemingly idyllic surface, making it a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts.
Editor Team
★★★★★3.5/5
The Serpent is a gripping, albeit harrowing, journey into the mind of one of history's most notorious criminals. From the get-go, it’s clear that we’re in for a wild ride, and the series delivers on that front. Tahar Rahim shines as Charles Sobhraj, effortlessly switching between charming and chilling, which really makes you question how someone like him could manipulate so many. The show does a fantastic job of building tension, but it can feel a bit drawn out at times. You might find yourself wanting to yell at the screen for the characters to catch up to Sobhraj's devious plans. The visuals are stunning, transporting you straight to the 70s with vivid colours and atmospheric settings. However, the emotional weight of the victims sometimes gets overshadowed by Sobhraj's glamour. Still, if you’re in the mood for a dark crime drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat, The Serpent is worth a watch, even if it leaves you a bit unsettled.
How viewers describe this
- gripping
- chilling
- captivating
- unsettling
- intense
- immersive
- dark
- stylish
- compelling
- haunting
- thought-provoking
- dramatic
The Serpent seasons
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 01 | ||
| 02 | 02 | ||
| 03 | 05 | ||
| 04 | 07 | ||
| 05 | 23 | ||
| 06 | 24 | ||
| 07 | 27 | ||
| 08 | 30 | ||
| 09 | 32 | ||
| 10 | 38 |
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Got a question about The Serpent?
Is The Serpent worth watching?
Yes, The Serpent is worth watching for its gripping narrative and strong performances, especially by Tahar Rahim as Charles Sobhraj. The series explores a dark chapter in history, blending true crime with psychological depth, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.
What is The Serpent really about?
The Serpent tells the chilling true story of Charles Sobhraj, a notorious criminal who preyed on young Western travellers along the Hippie Trail in the 1970s. The series chronicles his evasion of law enforcement and the eventual efforts to bring him to justice, highlighting the impact of his actions on victims and their families.
Is The Serpent based on a true story?
Yes, The Serpent is based on the true story of Charles Sobhraj, a serial killer who terrorised backpackers in Southeast Asia during the 1970s. The series draws from real events to depict his life, crimes, and the investigation that ultimately led to his capture.
What happens at the end of The Serpent?
In the final episodes of The Serpent, Charles Sobhraj is finally apprehended after a long pursuit by authorities. The series concludes with his trial and the revelation of the extent of his crimes, leaving viewers with a sense of closure regarding his dark legacy. (Spoiler Alert)
Where can I watch The Serpent in Australia?
In Australia, you can watch The Serpent on Netflix. The series is available for streaming, allowing subscribers to access all episodes at their convenience.
Is The Serpent suitable for children?
No, The Serpent is not suitable for children due to its graphic content, including violence and themes of murder. It is best suited for mature audiences who can handle intense subject matter.
Is The Serpent scary?
While The Serpent is not a traditional horror series, it contains chilling moments and psychological tension that may be unsettling for some viewers. Its exploration of a real-life serial killer adds an element of dread.
What films are similar to The Serpent?
If you enjoyed The Serpent, you might also like Mindhunter, The Fall, or Zodiac. These series and films explore similar themes of criminal psychology and the pursuit of justice in the face of evil.
Is there a sequel to The Serpent?
As of now, there is no sequel to The Serpent. The series is a limited event, concluding with the story of Charles Sobhraj’s capture and trial.