Welcome, dear readers, to another review of a Netflix series that promises to be as twisty as a pretzel, as mysterious as the Bermuda Triangle, and as thrilling as a roller coaster ride. Today, we’re diving into the labyrinthine world of “Fool Me Once,” Netflix’s latest offering from the seemingly inexhaustible well of Harlan Coben adaptations.
Plot: A Twisty Maze of…Twists
“Fool Me Once” is a tale that revolves around Maya Stern, a woman who has seen more trauma than a season finale of “Grey’s Anatomy.” Not only has she lost her husband, Joe Burkett, to a brutal murder, but she’s also dealing with the death of her sister. As if that wasn’t enough, she’s a former military officer carrying the weight of a civilian attack that led to her leaving her combat unit. Talk about a rough year.
But wait, there’s more! One fine day, Maya spots her supposedly dead husband on nanny-cam footage, hugging their daughter. Now, I’m no expert, but I’m pretty sure that’s not how death works. But hey, who am I to question the logic of a Harlan Coben adaptation?
Acting: Solid as a Rock
The acting in “Fool Me Once” is as solid as a rock, with Michelle Keegan delivering a reliable performance. Richard Armitage, who seems to have a permanent residence in the “Harlan Coben Televisual Universe,” appears as a shadowy post-mortem presence. The rest of the cast, including Joanna Lumley as the family matriarch, also deliver commendable performances.
Writing: A Roller Coaster Ride
The writing, adapted by Daniel Brocklehurst from Coben’s 2016 novel, is characterized by a twisty plot and a bit of a wry sense of humor. It’s like a roller coaster ride, full of ups, downs, and unexpected turns. And just like a roller coaster ride, your enjoyment of it will depend on your tolerance for thrill and your ability to switch off your brain.
Final Verdict: Stream It or Skip It?
So, should you stream it or skip it? Well, if you’re a fan of twisty plots, solid acting, and the ability to suspend disbelief, then “Fool Me Once” might just be the show for you. But if you’re looking for something grounded in reality, you might want to give this one a miss.
In conclusion, “Fool Me Once” is a wild ride that will keep you guessing till the end. It’s a testament to the fact that in the world of Harlan Coben, nothing is as it seems, and no one stays dead for long.
And remember, folks, in the immortal words of Groucho Marx, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” But fool me with a Netflix series? Well, that’s just entertainment.