Claire DuMont
Online Sports Editor
“Look away, look away, this show will wreck your evening, your whole life and your day”
The new Netflix series, “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” released on January 13, and impressed viewers with an enthralling plot, creative writing and cinematography, and realistic acting.
“A Series of Unfortunate Events” was released as an eight episode series based on the first four books of Daniel Handler’s book series of the same name. It follows Violet (Malina Weissman,) Klaus (Louis Hynes) and Sunny Baudelaire, who after their parent’s death are sent to live with Count Olaf (Neil Patrick Harris.)
Photos: Promotional photos for “A Series of Unfortunate Events”
The story is narrated by Lemony Snicket (Patrick Warburton,) the same pseudonym used by Daniel Handler in the original books. This breaking of the fourth wall adds to the childlike and whimsical feel of the story. The viewer feels as if the story is unfolding before them, with witty comments made by the narrator to enhance the plot.
“A Series of Unfortunate Events” is known for having a depressing storyline, which is clearly mentioned in the opening title sequence of the series, titled “Look Away.” However, this painful turn of events throughout the show is complemented by clever writing that provides comic relief to the scenes. It creates the perfect balance of humorous and serious scenes to create a cohesive mood.
The series is perfectly matched with talented actors that enriche each character and the writing. Each actor brings their own character to life, exposing the rich and dynamic nature of the characters. Neil Patrick Harris impresses with his ability to entirely change into different characters in only a change of scene. This further allows the story to be brought to life, and makes it seem even slightly realistic.
The series is accented by beautiful cinematography which emphasizes the whimsical feel of the show. Every scene is framed with a well placed background that reflects the nature of the scene. Some scenes are largely black and dark, while others have some accents of color, each displaying the mood of the story.
A review of “A Series of Unfortunate Events” published by the New Yorker.
As a Netflix original, the series has the advantage of all episodes being released at once, as opposed to weekly releases similar to other network shows. This is a benefit for the audience, seeing as the plot line is intriguing and ridden with cliffhangers making it almost impossible not to watch the whole series all at once.
The book series is also known for being intentionally mysterious and vague about many details which becomes aparent early on in the series. For example, the time period or the setting of the series is not explicitly stated. This can be seen as a drawback at times, however, it does not ultimately take away from the value of the series as a whole.
Visit the imdb.com page for “A Series of Unfortunate Events”
“A Series of Unfortunate Events” excites and impresses with a combination of unconventional writing, talented acting and creative cinematography to create an intriguing, successful new Netflix original.
All eight episodes of “A Series of Unfortunate Events” are available to stream on Netflix.
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