A Serpente de Essex

Sssssssslithers along at a snail's pace, and after 3 episodes I'm not sure -- nor is the show itself -- sure of what it wants to be. I think (?) it could function as a standalone suspense/ supernatural "Penny Dreadful"-ish movie. Only because there doesn't seem to be enough material for each episode as is.

I watched the first 2 released epis of The Essex Serpent (on AppleTV). Set in Victorian England (circa 1893?) around London and Essex, the show is superbly shot and acted. Danes does a good job affecting an English accent, and I forgot about it after the first 5 or 10 minutes. This show may not be for everyone, as it is slow-paced and a bit moody/dreary. However, if like me, you like period pieces that do a great job with its setting, then this one might be for you. It's based on a book I've never read or even heard of. There's bit of Vicky era science going on here, both medical and paleo, with a touch of theology and superstition of the time (and maybe a bit of politics as well). The Serpent of the tile is sort of a Nessy type. (although heard it's not seen in the first 2 epis)

I'm a sucker for anything mystical in the Victorian times so I'm enjoying this so far. I don't expect there to be a mind boggling unraveling in the end but I'm always excited when religion and sci-fi come together and looking forward to seeing how the mystery is going to unfold. It's alright so far, I don't think it's found it's footing yet, Tom hiddleston is probably what's going to attract most viewers to this but if you're not a fan of period dramas and all this might not be to your taste. It's set in a gloomy, muddy Essex town but the acting and dialogue add some vibrance to it so it's not gothic really. I'm curious to see whether the show's gonna end with a rational explanation as Cora suggests there is, or if it'll go down a mystical route and all the superstitious town folks' fears will be realized. It feels a bit monotonous Tom Hiddleston looks like he's capable of tackling challenging roles and showing his talent, this isn't that though. I'm not sure if 6 episodes will be enough to turn this into an amazing show, but on the other hand it's better than unnecessarily dragging a story and adding bits to make it a 10 or 12 episode miniseries. As asked in the show, the best way I could describe this is "Do you think there's something strange going on here?"

Episode 3: I've been enjoying this so far, more so because of the conflict between the religious folk and those looking for a scientific explanation. I like how it doesn't seem to be taking the conventional route, which is why I was surprised and in the slightest way possible disappointed as well at the ending of episode three. They didn't need to add the love interest and the whole 'I don't need to apologize to a man situation'. I mean you can see it coming all the way but I thought they'd stray away from the cheap shot of going down the infidelity route between Cora and Will; especially with Stella staring at them across the field through the window. The forbidden love story just seems like the easy(maybe even lazy) route for the writers, especially since the whole priest thing was already done in fleabag. I still think it'll end up being a decent show but the extra points I gave it for originally feel a little misplaced. I was intrigued by the series because I'm a sucker for gloomy, strange or dark shows so from that perspective I'm still enjoying the mystery of it; trying to figure out if it's God, Jo and her friends "witchcraft", or if it's just some animal and the people's paranoia of the unexplained is just fueling their fears. Anyway, on a silly sidenote, Tom hiddleston has a type here.

A fine portrayal of religious superstition and rational thought colliding over unusual, unnerving and unexplained events. An intriguing, well paced story, with strong dialogue and scene-setting with no jarring exposition. Garden of Eden imagery abounds in the Cora serpent story, burgeoning relationships and the contrasting treatment of men and women.

A quality cast: Tom Hiddleston, known for range and ability, fulfils his reputation; Claire Danes is one-note, but Cora is unique and relatable, despite superficial similarities to Carrie Mathison (obsessed, troubled, flouts convention); Hayley Squires excels as the passionate, idealistic Martha, a whirlwind of confidence, character and charisma.

Fabulous cinematography employs unusual angles, especially the marshes' low level capture, presenting a gritty, sinister foreboding. Period trimmings work, with de rigueur frocks and interiors, despite some clear anachronistic choices.

This is marvellous TV.

"The Essex Serpent" begins with great promise, but unfortunately fails to maintain its initial momentum. The series successfully establishes a suspenseful and intriguing atmosphere in the first few episodes, drawing in viewers with its eerie and mysterious storyline. However, as the plot progresses, the show loses its way, and the middle section drags on with little payoff.

The final few episodes of the series are particularly disappointing, as the story descends into a predictable and formulaic soap opera. Any tension and intrigue that were built up in the early episodes are lost, and the ending feels unsatisfying and generic.

Despite these flaws, "The Essex Serpent" does have its strengths. The show boasts an impressive cast, led by the talented and versatile actress, Claire Danes. The production design is also noteworthy, with the show beautifully capturing the atmospheric setting of rural England.

Ultimately, while "The Essex Serpent" has its moments of brilliance, its lackluster middle section and predictable ending prevent it from reaching its full potential.