Penny Dreadful: City of Angels

There is one huge error with this series, using the name Penny Dreadful in the title drags in fans of the original show, this is nothing like, or has no relevance to the original, there is a supernatural aspect to what is otherwise a cop show set in 1930's LA, with a background of racism Nazi influence and social unrest, the story itself is decent but feels like a vehicle for Natalie Dormer's talent, but using a title from a much loved UK series, sets itself up for disappointment, and if you loved the original this will feel like a betrayal and a cashing in on a title.

How could that even happen? Isn't that the same showrunner who created the original series? The first five minutes already look strangely cheap, CGI fire from 20 years ago, artificial acting. Then this constant bloom / glare filter in almost every shot. The intense horror show atmosphere with emotional trauma, this time it is just gone.

I had to rewatch the first few minutes of the original to make sure I'm not betrayed by my memory. I wasn't. This just feels cheap and artificial, truly strange it is written by the same guy.

What made the original "Penny Dreadful" series excellent was the basis of the "Penny Dreadful" tabloids that were written during that time. Many people are familiar with classic literary characters like Dr. Frankenstein and Dorian Gray. The original "Penny Dreadful" brought those and other characters into a new light by exploring their origin stories in the psychological thriller that took place in the dark corners of Victorian London.

This new series has fell lack luster in comparison. Although it is interesting in also being a period piece, the parallels end there. This series is more comparable with a less well written "American Gods." The characters are connected in a conflict between the Mexican folklore deity, Santa Muerte, the caretaker of the dead and guide to the great beyond, and her spiritual sister, the demoness Magda, who believes mankind is inherently evil and aims to prove her point.

If you came here looking for the grim, supernatural awesomeness of the original Penny Dreadful, then keep on moving. I don't know why this wasn't just sold as some 1950s gangster series. The cast is amazing, great visuals and acting, but there is almost nothing supernatural about this! Which was kind of the entire point of Penny Dreadful. Aside from some dramatic walk-ons in a gorgeous leather gown from Dormer, and some odd side characters she somehow also needs to play, the supernatural aspect is completely missing. There is SO much that could have been done with the story. Disappointed because I was a huge fan of the original PD!

I've seen the original and loved it. I agree with those who say don't compare it to the original because it's nothing like it except for one quick scene that appears supernatural. Do not expect the drama and horror of the original, at least two episodes in, because it's nothing like it. If you want to see a drama based on the history of Los Angeles watch Jack Nicholson in Chinatown for a great drama, this isn't living up to it as of yet.