Lots of slick previews created a great hook around a series fraught with expectation. So, disappointment seemed like a strong possibility.
Nonetheless, early in the first episode, a brilliant E. B. White line at just the right moment referencing the examination of jokes and frogs suggested some valuable research was done. Indeed, throughout the episode it seemed Don Mancini put a lot of thought into foreshadowing, event timelines, motivation, conflicts... all those details that make a story effective, regardless of genre or medium.
Comedy, tension, intrigue, plot twists, thrilling crescendos, music by Billie Ellish and Kim Petras... there was a lot to like and not much to question or second-guess. A particular choice (carrying Chucky on the school bus) that seemed awkward initially was made plausible by subsequent events and nothing else stood out as terribly detracting or in need of redemption.
Sure, some of the dialogue is silly, but it should be. They are young people trapped in the terrifying realm between childhood and the so-called real world. They are either naturally awkward or filled with a manufactured brashness that hides inherent insecurity.
Waiting for the second installment will be tough, but there's always the option of watching a replay in the interim. Round One was a winner by knockout, both technical and otherwise.
Nonetheless, early in the first episode, a brilliant E. B. White line at just the right moment referencing the examination of jokes and frogs suggested some valuable research was done. Indeed, throughout the episode it seemed Don Mancini put a lot of thought into foreshadowing, event timelines, motivation, conflicts... all those details that make a story effective, regardless of genre or medium.
Comedy, tension, intrigue, plot twists, thrilling crescendos, music by Billie Ellish and Kim Petras... there was a lot to like and not much to question or second-guess. A particular choice (carrying Chucky on the school bus) that seemed awkward initially was made plausible by subsequent events and nothing else stood out as terribly detracting or in need of redemption.
Sure, some of the dialogue is silly, but it should be. They are young people trapped in the terrifying realm between childhood and the so-called real world. They are either naturally awkward or filled with a manufactured brashness that hides inherent insecurity.
Waiting for the second installment will be tough, but there's always the option of watching a replay in the interim. Round One was a winner by knockout, both technical and otherwise.