Baby Reindeer
Watching 'Baby Reindeer' on Netflix was quite a ride of emotions for me. Initially, I was captivated by its almost cheerful tone and unique sense of humour. I found the idea of a man being pursued by a woman quite fascinating, and I was looking forward to an enjoyable experience.
However, as the episodes progressed, the tone took a sharp turn, immersing me in a sombre and unsettling exploration of unexpected themes. The show's portrayal of sexual violence was intense and powerful, leaving a lasting impact on me.
I was really impressed by how well the show depicted the impact of trauma and how it affects a person's mental state. The main character's journey was an intense rollercoaster that explored the depths of shame, fear, and the challenges of surviving.
'Baby Reindeer' had a hauntingly beautiful visual style that created a dreamy yet foreboding atmosphere, adding to the overall sense of unease. The colour grading enhanced the depth of the already sombre narrative, immersing me in its melancholic atmosphere.
The show had a lot of similarities to 'Black Mirror,' both in terms of its style and its exploration of the darker sides of human nature. 'Baby Reindeer' had a profound impact on me, which is quite rare for a series. I'm not sure if this is just down to anhedonia but as I have always said i always find things with dark themes to be the most impactful.
'Baby Reindeer' is a compelling and thought-provoking examination of the impact of trauma and the strength to overcome it. It's a thought-provoking series that requires understanding and contemplation, but it's one that I think is worth watching for its genuine sincerity and deep emotions.
Black mirrror (2005)
Watching Black Mirror is an experience that sticks with you long after it’s over. The show is known for its dark look at how technology and human nature can mix in unsettling ways. Each episode tells a different story, often acting as a warning about the possible dangers of our growing reliance on tech. The themes cover everything from social media and AI to surveillance and the blurred line between reality and the digital world.
What makes Black Mirror so effective is how it blends fiction with a sense of reality that feels just a bit too close for comfort. Creator Charlie Brooker creates stories that seem like they could happen soon, making you think not just about the future but about what’s happening now. The episodes are often unsettling, with twists that leave you questioning the moral choices presented.
One thing that stood out to me was how Black Mirror isn’t just about technology but about how people interact with it in sometimes scary ways. Episodes like "Nosedive" and "San Junipero" show how tech can affect identity, self-worth, and human connection, leaving a strong impression on how we see our lives in a digital world.
Visually, the series is impressive, with a look that changes from episode to episode—sometimes sleek and futuristic, other times plain and simple. The colors, whether muted or bold, help set the mood, pulling you deeper into each story's dystopian world.
Black Mirror isn’t easy to watch—it's often dark, thought-provoking, and even disturbing at times. But that’s what makes it so engaging. The show forces you to think about where our society is headed, offering a reflection on the possible futures we’re creating without giving any easy answers. It’s a show that makes you reflect on our digital obsessions and their real costs.
Hereditary (2018)
Watching Hereditary was a chilling experience that stayed with me. Directed by Ari Aster, this film stands out in the horror genre. Unlike typical horror movies that rely on jump scares, Hereditary builds a slow-burning tension that creeps under your skin.
Ari Aster's style is different. He focuses on the family's emotional breakdown, using horror as a backdrop. The movie delves deep into themes of grief, loss, and the dark secrets that families keep. The unsettling atmosphere is enhanced by the detailed cinematography and haunting musical score.
When I watched Hereditary, I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It wasn’t like anything I had seen before; the atmosphere was so dark and foreboding that it kept me engaged throughout the entire film. The tension was palpable, with each scene more intense than the last. I felt a constant sense of unease, as if something terrible was always just about to happen, yet I couldn’t look away. The way Aster crafted the narrative, slowly revealing the horror, made it impossible to predict what would happen next. This wasn’t a typical horror movie—it was an exploration of deep, unsettling emotions that gripped me and refused to let go. I was completely immersed in the story, feeling the weight of the family's tragedy and the looming darkness that surrounded them. It was an experience that left me thinking long after the credits rolled, a testament to Ari Aster's unique and powerful approach to filmmaking.
What sets Hereditary apart is its focus on real human emotions mixed with supernatural elements. The performances, especially by Toni Collette, are intense and believable, making the horror feel all the more real. Ari Aster doesn't just aim to scare you; he wants to unsettle you on a deeper level.
Overall, Hereditary redefines what horror can be, making Ari Aster a director to watch in this genre.
Ripley (2024)
Watching Ripley (2024) was a captivating experience that drew me into a world of lies, ambition, and the complexities of identity. Based on Patricia Highsmith’s novels, this series is a wonderful psychological drama that kept me hooked from the start.
The show follows Tom Ripley, a character who can adapt and manipulate others with ease. What makes Ripley different from other crime dramas is how it focuses on Tom’s mind and his moral struggles. The series digs deep into themes of identity and how far someone will go to change who they are and escape their past. The story builds tension slowly, with each scene adding layers of mystery and psychological twists that make the story even more gripping.
As I watched Ripley, I was constantly on the edge of my seat, drawn in by the dark and intense atmosphere. The show’s look, with its rich black and white colour grading and detailed settings, makes every scene feel important and real.
The acting is top-notch, especially the lead actor (Andrew Scott), who plays Tom Ripley with a mix of charm and danger. His ability to show both vulnerability and cold calculation makes him fascinating to watch. The supporting cast also does a great job, adding depth to the story as Ripley’s schemes takes place.
Overall, Ripley (2024) is a thought-provoking and exciting series that stands out for its psychological depth and tense atmosphere. It’s a show that not only tells a gripping story but also makes you think about identity, morality, and the price of ambition, all while keeping you fully entertained.
The Crowded Room (2023)
Watching The Crowded Room (2023) was an intense and emotional experience that explores the complexities of the human mind. The series, inspired by real-life events, delves into the story of a young man dealing with mental health issues and the consequences of his actions. It’s a psychological drama that doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, making it both compelling and thought-provoking.
The show focuses on Danny Sullivan, a character who struggles with his identity and past trauma. What sets The Crowded Room apart is its sensitive portrayal of mental illness, showing how deeply it can affect a person’s life and those around them. The narrative is carefully crafted, slowly revealing the layers of Danny’s personality and the challenges he faces as he tries to understand himself.
As I watched The Crowded Room, I was drawn in by its dark and intense atmosphere. The story kept me engaged throughout, as each episode added new twists and insights into Danny’s mind. It’s not just a story about crime or mystery—it’s an exploration of how the mind works under pressure and trauma. The visual style, with its moody lighting and close-up shots, really helps to create a sense of intimacy and urgency.
The performances are powerful, especially from the lead actor, who portrays Danny with a mix of vulnerability and strength. His ability to convey the inner turmoil of his character is truly impressive, making the show’s exploration of mental health all the more impactful. The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, adding depth to the complex story.
Overall, The Crowded Room (2023) is a powerful and emotionally charged series that stands out for its deep exploration of mental health, sexual abuse and identity. It’s a show that challenges you to think about the mind and how it shapes who we are, all while telling a gripping and unforgettable story.
Red Eye on ITV (2024):
Red Eye on ITV (2024) was one of the most eagerly anticipated shows of the year, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a major letdown. Despite the hype, the series failed to deliver on almost every front. From the start, the acting was stiff and unconvincing, making it hard to connect with any of the characters. What should have been a gripping thriller ended up feeling flat and unengaging.
The plot, which had potential, was riddled with silly holes and far-fetched twists that took me out of the story. Instead of building tension, the narrative was clunky and often nonsensical, making it hard to take seriously. The show’s attempt at suspense felt forced, and instead of being on the edge of my seat, I found myself rolling my eyes at the contrived situations the characters found themselves in.
Overall, Red Eye was a disappointment. It was a show that promised much but delivered little, leaving viewers with a poorly executed story and forgettable performances. A missed opportunity for ITV, and a reminder that not all highly anticipated shows live up to the hype.
Idris Elba in Hijack (2023):
Hijack (2023) offers a thrilling experience with Idris Elba delivering an impressive performance that keeps you hooked. Playing the role of Sam Nelson, Elba brings a strong presence to the show, making every moment of the hijacking drama feel intense and real.
Despite the overall gripping nature of the series, there are a few scenes that come off as a bit silly or over-the-top. These moments can occasionally pull you out of the story, with some plot twists and situations feeling a bit far-fetched. However, these quirks don’t derail the entire experience. The suspense and tension remain high, largely due to Elba’s engaging performance and the show’s well-crafted atmosphere.
Even with these occasional missteps, Hijack remains a captivating watch. The story keeps you on edge, with Elba’s strong acting anchoring the plot and making each twist and turn feel significant. His portrayal of Nelson adds depth and authenticity to the show, ensuring that, despite its few odd moments, it remains a thrilling and engaging ride from start to finish.
