Madeleine Powell
Copy Editor
Netflix Original “Russian Doll” lives up to its name as it leaves predictability behind, opening up new levels of intrigue for viewers with its dark twists and unexpected humor.
Teeming with complexities, “Russian Doll” impresses viewers with its stunning cinematography, talented leads and dark comedy, all of which highlight its diverse and believable characters.
“Russian Doll” stars Natasha Lyonne as Nadia Volvokov, who finds herself repeatedly dying and waking up on her 36th birthday. As Nadia learns to navigate her new reality, she learns to question the things that she had taken for granted before her mysterious and never-ending cycle of life and death.
Created by Lyonne, Amy Poehler and Leslye Headland, “Russian Doll” premiered on Netflix on Feb. 1, 2019. It consists of 8 episodes that are approximately 24-30 minutes long.
The complex storyline unfolds in front of viewers’ eyes as each piece of the puzzle falls into place slowly. This allows there to be many “a-ha” moments for viewers as previously insignificant-seeming situations and events are suddenly put into perspective and take on a new meaning.
Each character’s individual flaws make them believable, allowing viewers to sympathize with them as they grapple with internal and external struggles. Their choices are not always well-thought-out or morally right, but these missteps only serve to humanize them as they navigate unfamiliar and supernatural territory.
Natasha Lyonne’s performance is incredibly powerful and highly realistic. Her portrayal of Nadia takes an already witty and well-written character, and elevates her to be someone a viewer could expect to run into walking down the street.
“Russian Doll” boasts incredible cinematography that is indicative of precision and attention-to-detail on every level of the show’s production. From sweeping shots as Nadia walks through a park to a selfie-cam type video as she stumbles through a party, the variety in shots is interesting and attention-grabbing.
“Russian Doll” is hilarious in its ability to make light of even the darkest situations. Nadia’s ever-growing frustration as she continues to fall down the same set of stairs, dying each time, is one of the show’s funniest moments.
With comedic moments to break up its otherwise twisted plotline, “Russian Doll” impresses with witty dialogue and character design, creative cinematography and a plot that leaves viewers on the edges of their seats.
“Russian Doll” is currently available on Netflix, and is rated TV-MA.
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