By Elora Brow
Online Opinion Editor
Netflix’s original “Anne With an E” features an outstanding cast and an intriguing plot that closely resembles Lucy Montgomery’s novel, “Anne of Green Gables.” Although the cast does not consist of well-known actors, they deliver wonderful performances that make the show as spectacular as it is.
The new Netflix series premiered on May 12 and it follows the life of a young orphan named Anne Shirley (Amybeth McNulty). Anne was mistakenly adopted into a foster family named the Cuthbert’s home where they were expecting a young boy who would be able to help with the farmwork.
Variety shares their opinion on the “Anne With an E.”
Anne is given one week to prove to the Cuthberts that she is worthy of being kept. In order to prove herself, Anne completes tasks and acts in specific ways in order to impress the family, specifically Ms. Cuthbert who is not as accepting of Anne.
Photos: “Anne With an E” captures amazing imagery and a beautiful setting.
McNulty does an impeccable job performing numerous dramatic scenes. She rapidly changes roles from a smiling and bubbly girl to a fiery attitude, keeping the viewer engaged in each scene and wondering what is coming next.
Throughout each episode, Anne has flashbacks to past experiences she had in orphanages and other homes, which helps give the viewer a proper perspective into the life of Anne. With the flashes of her past, it is easier for viewers to understand her personality on a personal level.
The difference in character choice creates an appropriate balance of suspense and predictability. Marilla Cuthbert (Geraldine James) and Matthew Cuthbert (R.H Thomson) counter each other throughout the show with their very different personalities, giving the viewer more than one perspective on every situation.
Vanity Fair shares their thoughts on how relative “Anne With an E” is to “Anne of Green Gables.”
The show takes place in the early 1900’s and the producers and set designers did an impressive job of portraying the proper time period. Intricate details are involved in the setting of the house and the farm, such as the way the water is boiled, hands are washed and the horses carrying carriages add to the believability of the show.
“Anne With an E” is a very engaging and exciting show that has the potential for many more amazing seasons. Although the flashbacks do consist of some aggressive scenes physically and verbally, this series is appropriate for anyone above the age of 12.
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