El Poder

I assumed when reading through other reviews that there was going to be a mixed bag. People praising it because it flips gender power dynamics on its head and those who bash on it for the same reason. What I didn't expect was people claiming that the show is slow?? Yes, they take their time in order to introduce a large and diverse ensemble. Having just come off the Last of Us though, this show is a piece of cake (although I loved that show too). The only thing that stood out to me was some of the dialogue, especilaly with the teens, seemed a bit clunky.

There are quite a few characters, all with very interesting backgrounds, all unified by the Power. I am currently on episode 3 and can already sense the imminent collapse as people become trigger-happy naysayers out of fear and anger. Not that its too far fetched given how some world leaders reacted during the pandemic (and continue today).

Overall, the premise is interesting, the pacing steady, and I can't wait to see how they further develop the plot and characters.

I am only about 1/2 way through but so far this is an excellent show. One of the best aspects I think is that it has several main characters and shows, somewhat believably, what would happen if they all developed new powers. I enjoyed the world building of each very different character and the "what would happen if" of it all. We see the story mostly via the mayor of Seattle who is dealing with overwelmed first responders and EMTs only to be told my the governor to "not get her panties in a wad" in response to this major change in the world. She is told by authorities to keep it quiet but she decides instead to blow the whistle and tell everyone what is happening.

This is based on my absolute favourite book from the last 5 years and I was fearful that a "prime" adaptation might water down or homogenise what is, literally, an explosively revolutionary story line.

Short answer: it hasn't.

The author herself, Naomi Alderman, is in place as writer/adaptor of her own work and, so far, it hasn't lost any of its power, strong characterzation or excitement.

Like any well told and effective story it's taking it's time to introduce the main players. Sadly the "I want it now" demographic will fail to see the importance of such world-building ...but then they always do.

Literary echoes of "Handmaids Tale" "Consider her ways" and even a sprinkling of "World War Z" abound and I'm genuinely eager for the next episodes to be released. All the main characters seem well cast (love Roxy) and there are several truly impressive acting stalwarts in pivotal roles.

So far so good and episode 4 was magnificent. I was in tears throughout the whole Saudi Arabia section.

Keeping everything crossed.

The show is brilliant. I was shocked how low the rating is overall here. The acting is really great, it's well written and filmed, and plays almost like a documentary in its realism. The allegory that the show is telling is super important I believe. I feel it's one of the best shows I've seen in a long time. It's entertaining but also meaningful.

I definitely recommend it. Perhaps see for yourself and check it out if you like stories that have something important to say about the world. I feel uplifted and inspired watching this series.

I have seen the four episodes currently available, and I am very much looking forward to watching how it plays out.

I did not know anything about the show prior to watching and was instantly impressed. This show was able to bring so many worldwide social issues to mainstream awareness. The cross cultural storylines of women's oppression and the complex relationships they have in their lives was tied together seamlessly. The performace of the cast was a high quality, Toni Collette is always great and her interactions with Auli'i Cravalho who plays her daughter came across as genuine. It was good to see John Leguizamo playing a more serious, non villainous role.

Overall, I recommend this show. I know it isn't going to be everyone's cup of tea but I am glad I gave it a go and more importantly I'm glad it was made and released mainstream.