Netflix’s highly anticipated adaptation of Daniel Handler’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events” book series is finally here, with a star studded cast and a high class production that, although overly familiar, is a huge success.
“The Bad Beginning: Part One” kicks off with Violet, Klaus and Sunny Baudelaire’s home being destroyed in a fire and the orphans being sent to live with Count Olaf, a nefarious actor who is plotting to steal their fortune while Lemony Snicket investigates the children years later.
With a teleplay by Handler himself, “A Series of Unfortunate Events” perfectly nails the vibe of the books. It begins with a unique theme song urging viewers to “look away,” before Patrick Warburton’s Snicket narrates the tale, occasionally injected into the action of the story. Warburton seems to bring Lemony’s guilt and grim devotion to his duty to the forefront, which is enhanced by the VFD/Beatrice mystery the show will no doubt unpack. And with Handler involved with the series, perhaps fans will finally get true answers to that agenda.
Neil Patrick Harris’s Olaf seems inspired by Jim Carrey’s 2004 rendition, but not a direct copy. This is good, because Carrey’s comedic emphasis meant that his Olaf was likable and entertaining, when viewers are supposed to hate his guts. Harris, though he certainly has comedic moments, plays up the sinister more, especially during Part One’s climax, which has every bit the impact the book did.
Fans will also be surprised by the show’s expansion of the books. Mr Poe’s wife works for The Daily Punctilio, the nasty newspaper that shamed the Baudelaires, Snicket seems to know exactly what’s going on with their guardians and to top it all off, the parents are still alive, albeit kidnapped. It not only gives the show a plan for the foreseeable future, but gives fans something new beyond the familiar.
And that’s the main issue with the show: It retreads way too much of the 2004 film. Understandable, given that the film’s producer Barry Sonnenfeld directed Part One, but many dialogue scenes are nearly word for word the film’s script. As good as that film was and as tempting as it is to take what worked from it, it gives seasoned viewers deja vu, which isn’t good when trying to put a fresh take on a beloved property.
“The Bad Beginning: Part One” was a promising start with a few, thankfully minor, issues. Fans will enjoy the near obsessive recreation of their childhood, while fresh eyes will be entertained by the show’s unique tone.
Stay tuned to OMFGTV for more reviews of “A Series of Unfortunate Events.”
