The Beast in Me: a mixed thriller from Netflix
The Netflix series The Beast in Me, featuring Claire Danes as Aggie Wiggs, follows a grieving mother who faces both her past and her new, unsettling neighbour. The show has sparked interest as it airs alongside Apple TV’s Pluribus, highlighting a trend of narratives centred around complex female protagonists, reports BritPanorama.
Aggie, a prize-winning author grappling with the loss of her son in a tragic accident four years prior, encounters issues when Nile Jarvis, played by Matthew Rhys, moves in next door. His plans for a jogging path through their shared communal land aggravate Aggie, especially as he was previously questioned regarding the disappearance of his wife.
The tension escalates when Aggie’s emotional turmoil intertwines with Nile’s dubious past, particularly after a drunken FBI agent warns her about his history. The narrative further thickens when Teddy Fenig, the young driver responsible for her son’s death, goes missing, prompting Aggie to recall her dark wishes regarding him.
The chemistry between Danes and Rhys brings a compelling dynamic to the series. Both actors have earned critical acclaim for their previous roles, and their performances create engaging moments, particularly in their initial lunch meeting where they navigate a tense frenemy relationship. However, the show stumbles with pacing and overly convoluted subplots, including Nile’s troubled marriage and controversial property dealings.
Critiques have emerged regarding the script, which has seen prolonged development, suggesting disorganization in the storytelling. Plot threads often conflict, detracting from the suspense built earlier in the series. Furthermore, over-the-top moments and forced metaphors, such as Aggie’s plumbing troubles, dilute its overall effectiveness.
While some viewers may find enough intrigue to continue watching, others may feel the series lacks the cohesion needed to sustain interest. As a psychological thriller, The Beast in Me raises questions about grief and accountability, yet its execution leaves much to be desired.
The Beast in Me is streaming on Netflix.
