Good American Family

"Good American Family" is a gripping American drama-thriller series, inspired by the true story of Natalia Grace and her adoption by Kristine (Ellen Pompeo) and Michael Barnett (Mark Duplass).

Natalia, a child with dwarfism, is abandoned by the Barnetts after displaying strange behavior. Sound familiar?

It echoes a plot twist from the 2009 horror film "Orphan," which was based on the real-life case of Estonian imposter Barbora Skrlová. The unsettling premise taps into our darkest fears, but this series dives deeper into a much more twisted narrative.

While the story begins in 2010, the truth unfolds in a shocking series of revelations.

What initially seems like a straightforward tale quickly morphs into something more complex, shedding light on a deeper, far darker reality. After the success of a popular docuseries, the inevitable narrative adaptation has arrived.

If you're unfamiliar with the details of the Grace case, it's best to dive in blind-this show is a masterclass in twisting allegiances and testing your judgment.

The first episodes might make you cringe, but as Natalia's character shifts from antagonist to protagonist, the story evolves into something much more than just a rehash of Orphan.

It's a mix of crime drama-thriller, and satire, with a he-said-she-said dynamic that keeps you hooked, episode after episode.

If you're ready for a binge-worthy, mind-bending rollercoaster, "Good American Family" is not to be missed.

I was hesitant to check this show out because of the reviews, but I'm so glad I did. It is suspenseful, heartfelt at times, and you can't help but feel for all parties involved.

Ellen Pompeo is great in her role and so is Mike Duplass.

Imogen Faith Reid is fantastic - she is convincing in her role. At first you want to feel bad for her, then you are afraid of what she is going to do next.

I have read that this is loosely based off of a true story. I think a lot of people are trying to focus on the inconsistencies between the series and reality. Since I don't know much about the real story, my advice is to watch this show without comparing it against what it is loosely based off.

I started thinking that I could predict where this was going based on the blurb and a couple of episodes I'd watched...and I was SO wrong.

If you really pay attention (put the phone down!) and give this the time to play out through the episodes, the story unfolds and personally I loved the way it was filmed as it truly got such an emotional response out of me. I was surprised at the story and my whole opinion of characters changed as the episodes played out. The way in which it's filmed is a credit to helping tailor your connection with each character.

I don't want to give spoilers so you can enjoy it too!

Years ago I watched Kendall Rae cover this case on her YouTube channel and was blown away by the entire story. The first two episodes of GAF have hooked my interest in much the same way.

Ellen Pompeo never disappoints and is playing her part meticulously well, but I'm also impressed with Imogen Reid's depiction of Natalia Grace. The fluctuations between vulnerable, innocent child, seeking love, and unhinged (potentially older) woman seeking to cause relational rifts in the family, are enough to give the viewer whiplash.

I also want to give kudos on the casting of Jacob (Aias Dalman), an actually autistic actor, who is playing his role superbly too. As an autistic person myself, I love to see autistic actors getting these opportunities.

At two episodes in, I am most certainly committed to the rest of the series. Knowing the case, I have some idea of how things will go, but I'm sure there will still be surprises. I'm looking forward to seeing this unfold.

I am not understanding the negative reviews. Clearly people did not watch the entire series. The episodes are from varying perspectives. Some claim it seems fake...well it is a show and is focused on entertainment. I has no idea that this was based on a true story. Tragic is the best way to describe this. This child has hone through a lot as well as the family. It was great to see Ellen Pompeo and a bright young actress you plays Natalie. She did an incredible job! This series is also insightful in how disabled children may be put through the system harming them and the families. I do not want to state or analyze much to avoid spoilers.