A Series of Unfortunate Events

In this 'golden age of television', the higher quality shows are usually the darker, more thought provoking series (such as Breaking Bad, Mr Robot and Westworld). However, in the case of A Series Of Unfortunate Events, this deep, dark tone is tweaked to create a more light-hearted show that does not come at the expense of the quality. The series lies in between 'adult' and 'kids' TV genres, creating a strange, funny show for the whole family. Don't let the forgettable 2004 movie scare you off, because the series gets right what the movie got wrong. From what I have seen of the series so far, there is a colorful, but dark sense of humour, some great acting, and well crafted dialogue that make the series worthy of a watch. The longer TV episode format allows for a more complete story, with one book spanning two episodes (instead of the movie cramming in three books). It is a lot more nuanced than the movie for this reason, with extra scenes and dialogue filling in the backstory and adding depth to the characters. Yes the show is absurd; yes sometimes there are things that might make you question why you are watching it. It is definitely for a certain audience, but at the end of the day this series of unfortunate events is not so unfortunate after all.

This show is either your cup of tea, or it is not. The expression 'your cup of tea' here has nothing to do with hot beverages, but is rather used as a metaphor. Tea comes in countless flavours, which is perfectly normal considering that there are countless types of people. And if you don't like a certain flavour, you don't like it.

Same goes for this show. If it's not your cup of tea, it's not. But if it is your cup of tea, it is a BIG one. I have not enjoyed a show this much since... ever. Let's just say it's the greatest cup of tea I've ever had.

The best mistake I've ever made is picking up the first book of A Series of Unfortunate Events three years ago and reading it. I got so into this series I read every single book in a few months, and I got so invested all I could wish for was a TV series or a movie covering every book.

When I watched the movie, I was disappointed, although I should have expected as much from a 90 minute movie containing the three first books. Especially since the rest of the books were so, so good.

And then I started to hear whispers. Rumors, even, about Netflix creating a new show called "A Series of Unfortunate Events" which would cover every book... and I was figuratively jumping for joy because I was so happy.

The first season was truly a vague, fabulous display that was, I daresay, even BETTER than the books. And the second season... Don't even get me started, for I would still be here tomorrow documenting why it was so amazing and satisfying to watch. I truly hope season three will be a blast as well.

Knowing the details of this story's end, I am not curious about the ending at all. But I am excited about what's to come, and how many more musical songs will be sang before this tragic tale comes to an end.

Do I recommend this series? That I cannot answer, for I do not know if you, dear reader, prefer black or green tea or don't drink tea at all.

I have never read the books....nor have I seen the Jim Carrey movie. So, when I saw this come up on Netflix, I wasn't very interested.

Then, I decided to check it out...with my kids. Wow.... I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thought NPH was great...and loved the kids.

Then I decided to check out the first book on Kindle, since it was on sale. I am totally surprised how similar...almost verbatim.... the series is to the book. I think that is wonderful.

I've seen comments about CGI.... the only thing that really distracted me was some shots where they digitally put Sunny's face in. I believe that only happened in one scene.

The dreadfully entertaining story of the fate of Violet and Klaus Baudelaire after suffering the tragic loss of their parents and home to a mysterious fire. The riveting repartee (salted with subtle ironies, peppered with alliteration, and seasoned with astute observations) felicitous music score, and brilliant scenery is outdone only by the carefully crafted storytelling and performances that really cook! Patrick Warburton, as Lemony Snicket, is dolefully monotonic yet drearily expressive. Neil Patrick Harris, as Count Olaf, gives a talented portrayal of a talentless actor of dubious motivation. Malina Weissman and Louis Hynes, as Violet and Klaus, deserve honorable mention. All in all, a thoroughly well done show. However, if you are chagrined by dire circumstances, dismayed by unfair situations, or saddened by unhappy endings, perhaps you should take to heart Lemony Snicket's introductory caveat. Caveat means warning.

The show stands on it's own, a wonderful silly and atmospheric piece of work. It has well written jokes and a good story line. It will take you on an incredible adventure as we get to follow the Baudelaire orphans and their beloved count Olaf. It has a bit of dark but yet silly humor, and all the actors give an outstanding performance! There were very few flaws and one thing that did bother was from time to time the jokes were a bit dry. But most of the time it was an absolutely wonderful and hysterical adventure! I can proudly recommend this Netflix original to anyone who wants a bit a of a different story or just wants to watch a great show with laughter and excitement through out! To all those who were a fan of the books I can say that you will enjoy each and every episode! 9/10