Cruel Summer

I had never heard of this show, but it was among the recommended titles on imdb.

So I decided to give it a chance, while not betting a dime I'd end up loving it. I stand corrected! It had me "hooked, lined and sinkered" after 2 episodes.

First of all, it is not a teen series, although the main characters are actually teenagers.

Second, the plot is very good and bursting with twists that keep you guessing all along. The idea and of the 3 parallel timelines one year apart works great and seamlessly here.

Third, the acting is impeccable, the evolution of the characters over the 3 year span is flawless, and quite impressive, with a special mention for Chiara Aurelia. Olivia Holt is insanely pretty.

All in all, a great and entertaining series, that comes as an unexpected surprise. I'm glad I watched it.

Review for Season 1: An enjoyable watch that keeps it interesting with all the time changes (each episode is set over the same day over 1993,1994, & 1995) and different perspectives between the two leading ladies. However, some of the casting was distracting and detrimental to the show. Harley Quinn Smith was absolutely unbearable to watch, and ruined every scene she was in, and Andrea Ander's accent didn't fit in with anyone else. Over acted at times, but overall a fun watch and fresh concept that wasn't necessarily filled with a lot of twists, but an interesting plot. I'm excited to see how they continue the concept over to Season 2.

I passed on this show until just recently because it just didn't look like something a grown woman would be able to enjoy. I got teen high school drama vibes and that's just never enough to keep me interested. I finally gave it a shot and thank goodness because it's easily one of my favorite series I've watched in recent memory. The way the story unfolds, the way it keeps you completely absorbed even though you only get more questions than answers until the last couple episodes, the cinematography and color schemes! And the acting. It was so impressive and by the end of the season you get all of your answers.

It is hard to pick a rating for this because Season 1 deserves 9 stars, but season 2 is barely 4 stars. When I found out S2 was not a continuation, but a new plot with all new cast, I was equally excited hoping it would be as good as S1. It doesn't even come close. I don't understand how this show went from being as good as it was in S1 to this junk in S2. I've watched all 8 available episodes of S2 so far and honestly don't know why I'm still watching. I think there is only one episode left and no matter what happens it can't make up for how bad the other episodes have been. TLDR: Season 1 is amazing, Season 2 is trash.

Each episode is addictive, because it allows the audience to trust and doubt the two female lead characters at the same time. With all the plot twists, you will find that both characters are the victim and the villian at the same time. Yet, I feel sorry for both. Also, I appreciate how they don't romanticise an underage student and authoriative figure relationship like pretty little liars. Instead, it covers the grooming, a real issue.