Renegade Nell

I noticed the show when I was browsing through the disney+ app while bored. It's not the usual type of show I watch but I decided to give it a try. I'm definitely glad I did! The show is such fun! It has everything you could want. Action, comedy, drama, great acting and quite a compelling story. I was even suprised that I actually liked most of the characters, definitely thanks to the talented actors and actresses who portray them. The show was so good that I binge watched it all in just two sittings and was left wanting more. I really hope it gets another season so I can see more of the characters and see how there story ends.

The first three episodes of the show are quite dark and serious in comparison to the rest of season 1. There are themes such as violence against women and children resulting in injury, murder and sexual harassment of a (presumed) minor (no sexual harassment takes place on screen). Episodes 4-8 are slightly lighter in tone, and I believe this is so they can keep the rating a 12+.

Nell is a fantastic character and I can only applaud the actress for her talent. Her sisters, Rassalas and Isambard Tulley are equally wonderful, and the character of Billy Blind grounds the fantasy theme that underpins the entire plot.

Some reviewers have complained about the use of an ethnically diverse cast for a show set in the 1700's, but this is a fantasy show which displays magic and magical creatures as real. The realities of real life in the 1700's are both irrelevant and unnecessary, in a plot that is clearly divorced from real history. Anyone looking to this show to provide real historical context is (in my opinion) crazy.

My criticism of the show is based on the last two episodes. I was a little disappointed by episode 7, as Nell's fight scene wasn't taken in the direction I was expecting. Episode 8 was even more disappointing. I think the show left too many character arcs and plot points to be concluded within the final episode. There's too much jumping around between characters, most of whom are facing separate (if overlapping) problems. I was surprised and disappointed, that the central villains of the show were not dealt with how I expected (or wanted) them to be, though they all did face consequences in different ways. Nell and her family do get a happy ending, so it's worth watching for that alone. Overall it's a decently entertaining show, that I didn't find difficult to watch, and would recommend to others.

There are a few musical numbers in the later episodes of the season, and there's a good soundtrack throughout, in particular Nell's fight song. Whoever created that should be very proud of themselves.

Renegade Nell delivers an unforgettable experience, largely due to the exceptional performances by Louisa Harland and Frank Dillane, supported by a great full cast.

Harland's portrayal of Nell is both fierce and vulnerable, capturing the essence of the character with nuance and depth. Showcasing her versatility as an actress, making Nell a multi-dimensional and relatable protagonist

Dillane's charismatic presence as the antagonist adds a thrilling dynamic to the narrative. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, elevating the story to new heights. A must-watch for their outstanding performances alone.

A fantastical tale not to be taken too seriously, loosely structured around a real historical story. However, this is entirely fiction and should be seen as such, unlike some reviews on here. The scripts are tight and the acting consistently high from all with some wonderfully over the top incidental characters to lighten the tone.

Every episode tells a story within a story and keeps moving along at a good pace to keep you entertained and wanting more, with no weak episodes. The whole series wraps up nicely which is a refreshing change these days when most series end with a part of the story untold.

Recommended for when you want a little bit of escapism for your entertainment.

It feels very much like something from Joss Whedon, music, characters, low key wry humor. I am hoping it continues. Other reviews I read seemed unfavorable for the very reasons I have sited. People who watch a lot of reality shows probably would not appreciate it for the very reasons that I do. Clever, witty, and twists unexpected. The music is rousing and appropriate. I actually want to watch it, not just putting it on in the background while I ride my Peloton or clip coupons. I do not know any of the principle cast, but all seem skilled. I have gotten old. No longer content to waste the time I have left watching dreck. I am very hopeful rhe rest of the season is as entertaining.