The Mysterious Benedict Society

As a child, I read the first three Mysterious Benedict Society books religiously. Each book sucked me in and led me on this wonderful journey that I couldn't seem to put down. When I saw that there was going to be a live-action adaptation I was skeptical but the first two episodes have been so perfectly accurate it's scary.

The cast is perfect, the world feels like it's been pulled from the recesses of my imagination, and did I mention it was perfect? A must-watch Disney+ series already. Six more episodes (and hopefully two more seasons) to go.

I was quite fond of this book as a kid and the attention to detail in this adaptation is mind blowing. Almost every little thing is book-accurate. It is truly mind blowing. I respect anyone who adapts a book with this much love and attention.

I was wonderfully surprised by this show. The entire cast was excellent, especially the child actors. I can't stress enough how great they played their characters. They were funny, felt genuine, and you really grew to love them. The adults too, played their roles incredibly well. I was not familiar with the books they are based on, but the story was compelling, while still being family friendly. A lot of love went into this story (both seasons). Sadly, Disney couldn't let a good thing alone.

Disney+ announced it would be removing this show this month, along with many others, as a way to cut back costs. You'd think they'd start with their poorly made stuff first. It was slated to have a third season, but now it's fate is uncertain. No wonder Disney is losing money. They struggle to make good content, and when they do they find a way to ruin it. Bad management across the board. Really hope this show comes back or finds another way to survive.

Wow - the first two episodes were excellent. As someone who loved the books and read and re-read them over and over again as a child, this was everything I could have hoped for-a masterclass in capturing the wit and spirit of a book while making subtle improvements. This is probably the best adaptation of a book series I have seen since Season 1 of the Handmaid's Tale!

The four main kids are perfectly cast, with Marta Kessler being an excellent Constance Contraire. Although I was apprehensive about Tony Hale as Mr Benedict, the first two episodes settled most of my concerns and the writing does a lot to help him feel at place in the role. And of course, Kristen Schaal is pitch-perfect casting for Number Two, as is MaameYaa Boafo as Rhonda. And Ryan Hurst makes for a sad but hilarious Milligan.

The scenes feel lifted right from the book, with much needed adjustments like Mr. Curtain no longer using a wheelchair so as to avoid the Evil Cripple trope. The production design is vibrant and captivating, and the sets are as colourful and exciting as the books. Meanwhile, Theodore Shapiro writes an EXCELLENT and catchy theme tune.

I am VERY satisfied!

I see a lot of reviews here saying it's very slow paced. IMO it's actually rather refreshing to see a show of this genre with child actors moving at the slower pace and taking it's time to build the plot up versus rushing through it because it's geared for kids (really it's for kids and adults but most kids under 14 won't get the plot, so parents will need to explain, if THEY get it 😉 ).

It's actually a rather cerebral show and reminds me a lot of shows like Star Trek and Quantum Leap.

If you're looking for a fast paced or action show this isn't it. But if you're willing to be patient and can understand and adjectives the intellectual aspect, then this is for you.