My quick rating - 5.0/10. This show attempts to unravel a sinister cult story while exploring the psychological trauma of its protagonist, but it ultimately stumbles over its narrative choices. While the acting performances, particularly those of Teresa Palmer and Guy Pearce, stand out as the show’s highlights, the overall experience is marred by clumsy storytelling and frustrating characters. The premise of confronting past horrors to prevent present atrocities is compelling. Palmer’s performance as a deeply flawed, emotionally scarred woman carries much of the emotional weight, though her character’s unwillingness to communicate and her baffling choices make her difficult to root for. Pearce, as expected, shines his role and offers a steadying presence in an otherwise chaotic narrative. However, the storytelling is where this one falters. Flashbacks, often a powerful tool in unraveling complex backstories, are poorly executed here. Instead of providing clarity or enriching the plot, they create confusion and detract from the pacing. One particularly key revelation is mishandled through these disjointed flashbacks, robbing it of emotional impact. The show starts strong, promising a gripping cult-centered mystery, but the erratic behavior of the characters becomes increasingly distracting. The younger versions of the characters are more engaging, suggesting that the show might have benefited from a tighter focus on their stories. While the show has its moments and could appeal to viewers drawn to cult-themed dramas, its uneven execution and frustrating character dynamics make it a challenging watch. This is a series I wouldn’t revisit, and I’d only recommend it to those deeply invested in the genre and willing to overlook its flaws.
You can check this one out on HULU.
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