The Third Day

It's so hard to rate this, because it's one of the most intense and creative shows I've ever seen. There are some aspects that are really well done, and the cinematic effects (filters/lighting) carry a lot of the weight and accentuate Sam's experiences. Sometimes, though, it's a little overdone, much like my 14 year old self on Instagram with all the effects. And then there's the plot. Again, incredibly creative and intense, but any sort of character motivation is sacrificed to serve plot twist upon plot twist upon plot twist. It makes little sense at the end. The only character whose motivation I can follow somewhat clearly is Sam's, and there are many things in the first episode that should have been answered or referenced in the following parts of the series. Maybe they will be in the coming 'second half'. I really hope the 'Winter' segment is easier to follow, because every single character changing allegiances approximately 4 times per episode is making ME feel like I took LSD at a Celtic festival.

I've now watched the first three episodes and want to react before watching the next three. I must say it was very, very strange but very, very alluring viewing. Jude Law was absolutely magnificent, as in fact he always is but here he was just so good. Peculiar camera shots, reality lapses and all sorts of funny things but for Jude Law's performance alone I really enjoyed it. Still not sure about the "meaning" but am not worried about that too much! The next day! So now I've watched the next three episodes and my judgement remains. I can really understand why some people don't appreciate this. We all have really different tastes. But i found it compelling to use a word I don't normally use! In parts so exciting that I had to pause and do something else for a few minutes before continuing. The ending was a little disappointing but I don't know how else it could have ended really. The reality that was created was very gripping and as usual I managed to work in an allegory to some things in our real world! Don't watch if all you want is a straight forward horror movie though!

Some people seem to appreciate style over substance according to a lot of reviews. Only second episode in, I've never seen such abnormal, unnatural behaviour in a main character. It doesn't make sense how Jude Law's character reacts to his situation. There is a stellar cast, Jude Law is great, there is oodles of intrigue to keep you hooked. The cinematography is amazing but hopefully it will improve in the story. 4th episode in and Naomie Harris (who I'm not a fan of) is another character introduced whose character reaches higher levels of abnormal behaviour than what Jude Law did. This episode is home literally the most nonsensical, mystifying, stupid writing I have ever seen in what should be a well produced show.

I understand the mixed reviews as this show is extremely unconventional, but it's a shame because of the sheer technical brilliance at work. The cinematography is wonderfully unique, the score is beautiful, and the actors delivered top-notch performances across the board.

The story isn't for everyone. It's probably too freaky for a lot of folks, but if you can manage it, I found it to be incredibly rewarding. There's mystery, horror, weird Celtic rituals, and a gang of characters who are completely gaslighting the viewer about what's really going on. After a series of twists and turns, it all makes sense and, in my opinion, reaches a satisfying conclusion. Ultimately, it's a story about grief, responsibility, and alienation on a small island off the coast of England, where nothing is as it seems.

If I could compare it to anything, I would say it's sort of like an A24 movie (think Ari Aster or Robert Eggers) except it's on a significantly higher dosage. You'll either love it or you'll hate it, but I hope you'll at least give it a try.

Absolutely loving this twisting, gripping, theatrical drama with a strong Midsommar/Wickerman vibe. Some terrific performances, notably from Jude Law, Paddy Considine and Nico Parker. This atmospheric series gripped me from the get go and never failed to intrigue. As ever with Dennis Kelly's incredible writing, the audience have to do some thinking for themselves so this will never appeal to those who like their drama basic. Ignore the bad reviews and give it a go.