Last week, I decided to start (and then, three days later, finish) the new Netflix original series, "A Series of Unfortunate Events."
As I'm sure many of you are aware of, this recently added series is based on the classic book series by Lemony Snicket that many of us read as young children in elementary or middle school.
If you aren't familiar with the series and never read it as a kid (honestly, how?), here is a quick run-down for you:
Three children become recent orphans when their parents perish in a tremendous fire that occurs in their mansion-of-a-house. Following such an incident, the children are placed in the care of a "distant relative" named Count Olaf. However, Olaf is a scheming man and is only after the children's fortune. The children focus on escaping his clutches time and time again.
Upon hearing of the show's creation and impending launch to Netflix, I was met with extreme excitement and couldn't wait for it to come out. This was one of my favorite book series as a child and I remember just how sad I was to finish them all. My fandom was rekindled, however, with the production of the 2004 adaptation of the series that included the first three books. Unfortunately, to my dismay, the film was met with much criticism and did not proceed to further the series on the big screen.
Although, it seems that many critics had positive remarks to make about the 2017 Netflix version. The good news is, I don't disagree with them. My own take is this:
Overall, I would say I was rather pleased with the turn-out of Netflix's rendition of the series. I appreciated the way in which it was filmed and mostly agreed with the choices of casting.
A big difference that I would say is prevalent among Netflix's version compared to the 2004 version is that there's a little more light-heartedness and an element of comedy. Which, I suppose would make sense as in the books Snicket does make a point to add sarcastic and mocking comments. At first, I wasn't sure about the humor that they were trying to incorporate, as I mostly thought it was too cheesy for the theme of the series. However it did grow on me and I even found myself audibly laughing at some of the remarks within the show.
The scenery present within the show demonstrates a lot more depth and vividness. It almost reminded me of scenery that could be found in a Dr. Seuss based film. This could also have a lot to do with the time gap that clearly exists between the 2004 film and the 2017 show. Netflix's version is obviously much more modernized.
Although I am not 100% clear on every detail that was prevalent in the 2004 movie (as I have not seen it since then), from what I remember this tv series represents a much more accurate and consistent plot to the book series.
There is only one aspect of the Netflix series that I believe should be different. And that is the overall mood of the show. While I understand certain tongue-and-cheek moments are necessary, as that is what is included in the books, I personally believe that the show should have a little more seriousness incorporated. I mean, it is a series highlighting how many unfortunate events occur within these children's lives, so I just think it would make sense to ensure a creepier and more serious vibe at times. Specifically with Count Olaf. Sometimes it's hard to take Neil Patrick Harris seriously, especially since he does not often represent evil characters.
I do understand the overall intended audience is typically children, however in another sense it wold make sense to target an older audience as well, since we are the ones that grew up reading the books. These books were largely popular when those that are now in their 20's were kids. You could almost argue that those that are older are the intended audience, as we are most likely the most loyal fans.
And maybe the mood they were intending is that of a more light and joking tone. That could be likely as well. My own personal preference, however, is just a more serious one overall. That is the way I interpreted the series as I read it.\
No matter, I was very pleased with Netflix's adaptation of one of my favorite book series. I was glad to see it make a much over-due, successful comeback to the big (or, small, in the case of our laptops) screen. I am anticipating the emergence of season two to see what else Netflix has up its sleeve for this thrilling classic.
