When this limited series popped up on Netflix, I only intended to watch the first couple of episodes, but I ended up binge-watching the entire series in one go.
The story follows struggling comedian Donny (played by the show's writer and director, Richard Gadd), who encounters a crazy woman named Martha. What starts as an awkward encounter escalates into a horrifying situation. Gunning delivers a chilling performance as Martha, while Gadd portrays Donny's descent into fear with raw vulnerability.
I like going into a show blind, yet I find it's only the best ones that can hook me in quickly when I don't know anything about it; otherwise, I like to have some knowledge of what it's about.
Baby Reindeer can be described as a black comedy, but it also has much tension, making it equally a dark psychological drama. The opening credits start with a notice that it's based on actual events. I have no idea how much of it has been embellished for artistic license. Honestly, you couldn't make this up, and while it's a strange story that unfolds, nothing in it is unbelievable.
While the show does provide some funny moments, it's a lot more than a comedy. It has as much tension, if not more, than an A-list Hollywood blockbuster thriller. There are moments when I cringe as if I were in the room with them, feeling the awkward tension, and other moments where I feel myself shouting at the screen, warning Donny to get out quickly before his stalker, Martha, sees him.
Baby Reindeer isn't afraid to tackle tough topics like drugs, mental health, and sexual abuse. The show's unflinching portrayal might not be for everyone, hence the 18+ rating.
I've always thought being a stand-up comedian is a tough job. Richard Gadd gives a fantastic performance of his own bad comedy routine that doesn't hit the mark, and I found myself rooting for him to tell a better joke and for the audience to laugh. I gained a whole new level of respect for comedians.
If you enjoy thought-provoking dark dramas with solid performances and a touch of humour, I highly recommend Baby Reindeer.
The story follows struggling comedian Donny (played by the show's writer and director, Richard Gadd), who encounters a crazy woman named Martha. What starts as an awkward encounter escalates into a horrifying situation. Gunning delivers a chilling performance as Martha, while Gadd portrays Donny's descent into fear with raw vulnerability.
I like going into a show blind, yet I find it's only the best ones that can hook me in quickly when I don't know anything about it; otherwise, I like to have some knowledge of what it's about.
Baby Reindeer can be described as a black comedy, but it also has much tension, making it equally a dark psychological drama. The opening credits start with a notice that it's based on actual events. I have no idea how much of it has been embellished for artistic license. Honestly, you couldn't make this up, and while it's a strange story that unfolds, nothing in it is unbelievable.
While the show does provide some funny moments, it's a lot more than a comedy. It has as much tension, if not more, than an A-list Hollywood blockbuster thriller. There are moments when I cringe as if I were in the room with them, feeling the awkward tension, and other moments where I feel myself shouting at the screen, warning Donny to get out quickly before his stalker, Martha, sees him.
Baby Reindeer isn't afraid to tackle tough topics like drugs, mental health, and sexual abuse. The show's unflinching portrayal might not be for everyone, hence the 18+ rating.
I've always thought being a stand-up comedian is a tough job. Richard Gadd gives a fantastic performance of his own bad comedy routine that doesn't hit the mark, and I found myself rooting for him to tell a better joke and for the audience to laugh. I gained a whole new level of respect for comedians.
If you enjoy thought-provoking dark dramas with solid performances and a touch of humour, I highly recommend Baby Reindeer.