Review: A Series of Unfortunate Events Ep. 1-2

Originally published on my blog!

Today I'm sharing with you my thoughts on my most anticipated series ever, since we got the news way back when that Netflix had acquired this show for release! A Series of Unfortunate Events, written by author Lemony Snicket, was literally my favorite book series as a child and adolescent, way before I had ever picked up a Harry Potter book. The TV series has premiered today, Friday the 13th, on Netflix, and I have watched the first two episodes - equaling the first book - this morning, and I thought I'd give my thoughts.

To start off, I thought I would first discuss my feelings on the acting. I think Netflix has once again hit it out of the ballpark with finding child actors with the talent and maturity to play such intricate characters. Violet, Klaus, and Sunny are just as I imagined them within the series, and I truly commend the actors on their hard work and genuine talent in making me care so deeply for the children after a few minutes of them being on screen. Neil Patrick Harris kills it (quite literally) as Count Olaf, mixing the truly vile with comedic timing and a large dose of idiocy. Patrick Warburton as Lemony Snicket himself is a great narrator for the series, and provides his own interesting backstory without taking away from the children's immediate dangers. Will Arnett and Colbie Smulders have truly delightful roles thus far that I was not expecting but have become what I look for in the episode. Even the side characters are interesting and well rounded, and portrayed beautifully.

The aesthetic is gorgeous as well, I enjoyed the use (and disuse) of color throughout the first two episodes. I also love the feel of the program, it's almost steampunk but not at all, the old-timey spy program nature is intriguing to me and keeps me on my toes throughout the first two episodes.

I will definitely be continuing to watch this program (with my excitement levels I'll probably be finished by tomorrow!) Are you watching this series on Netflix? What are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments below! Also, if you'd like a fuller review once I have finished the series, let me know as well!