The Nevers

Ye gads, the critics really came down on this series because of Joss Whedon's involvement. But give it a chance. It's got an interesting storyline, steampunk influences, and a really great cast. Yes, the storyline is mostly about women, but they are all shapes, sizes, ages, etc. There are male and female heroes and villains. People with unnatural abilities, yes, that's been done before. And will be done again and again. There's nothing wrong with using that as a base. The show is great!

Maybe this show had the misfortune of happening during the pandemic. It was one of the most inventive shows in the past several years. Really crisp, sharp writing, excellent acting, and a highly entertaining story. They never took the easy way out. Laura Donnelly, Ann Skelly, Olivia Williams, James Norton, Amy Manson... all brilliant. Maybe the show was too female-centric and too progressive for these times. Too many strong women in one show? Not enough men doing manly things for the wider audience? It's really a shame, because this was a stunningly good show. That they pulled it after six episodes, not even airing the full 12, is just a crime and doesn't bode well for other shows that aren't afraid to be this compelling with so many powerful women at the centre.

I was on the fence for the first episode but it quickly won me over. The finale was alright. Interesting idea, not totally sure what that looks like for season 2, if it gets renewed. Whedon has been outed for pretty deplorable behaviour, who knows what that means.

As is though, the Victorian super hero and Other narrative feels like it's well done. Clearly a lot of good casting and a pool of good writers to pull off something that's a bit tropey yet also niche and weird. I like having this in tandem with all the nihilistic "realistic" super hero shows lately. These questions are more interesting, imo.

This isn't a lazy show- there is so much work put into the scenes, characters and acting and it shows in the finished product. So much better then reviews gave it. The episodes are so dense that to catch everything I've found myself rewatching every show. It's a wonderful, escapist, smart show. Can't wait to see where it takes me.

And doesn't that opening theme song remind you of THE MAGICIANS?

And the fact that it's headed up by Laura Donnelly just makes it all the better. She was awesome in Outlander, now she's awesome in this.

What a fascinating idea for a show. Interesting powers too. I can't wait to see what happens next. Please renew this for another season.