"Wednesday" is a Netflix series that takes the iconic character Wednesday Addams into a captivating fantasy realm of her own. The show follows Wednesday as a student at Nevermore Academy, where she navigates her emerging psychic abilities, uncovers a supernatural mystery from her parents' past, and thwarts a monstrous killing spree.
Wednesday Addams - Review
The task of stepping into the shoes of Wednesday Addams is no easy feat, but Jenna Ortega rises to the challenge in the Netflix series "Wednesday." While Christina Ricci left an indelible mark on the character in the films "The Addams Family" and "Addams Family Values," Ortega holds her own, despite facing new challenges. As a teenager, Wednesday's deadpan and sarky responses have a different dynamic than they did when she was younger. Additionally, Ortega infuses the character with humanity, allowing her to evolve over the course of the eight-hour series, which combines elements of horror, murder mystery, and coming-of-age storytelling. Ricci excelled in portraying affectlessness, but Ortega successfully captivates viewers throughout the entire series.
The story begins with Wednesday seeking revenge on the boys who bullied her younger brother, Pugsley. After being expelled, she is sent to Nevermore Academy, where her mother, Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones), attended. The academy is led by the icily unsettling headteacher Larissa Weems (Gwendoline Christie), who was once Morticia's classmate. Larissa assigns Wednesday to room with the cheerful Enid Sinclair (Emma Myers), and their interactions are filled with tension. Miss Thornhill (played by Ricci herself) serves as their dorm mother, adding a touch of eerie familiarity. As Wednesday embarks on her new journey, she becomes entangled in a web of mysteries, including a series of killings in the town of Jericho, attempts on her own life, and the revelation of her father's dark past. She also grapples with her visions of the future, the enigmatic sketches in the secret basement, and the intriguing characters she encounters along the way, such as the artist Xavier (Percy Hynes White) and the mysterious therapist Dr. Kinbott (Riki Lindhome).
The creators of "Wednesday," Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, known for their work on "Smallville," expertly handle the intertwining plotlines that blend the real and supernatural worlds. Moreover, the series benefits from the visionary direction of Tim Burton, who brings his distinct eldritch-tinged aesthetic to the show.
While the series deviates from the traditional Addams Family setting and presents a more fractured version of the clan, it still manages to captivate with its wit, charm, and propulsive energy. The unity and love of the Addams family that were a hallmark of previous adaptations may be missed, but it doesn't overshadow the overall enjoyment of the series. As a testament to its appeal, even younger viewers find themselves engrossed, eagerly awaiting each resolution and cliffhanger.
One minor disappointment lies in the portrayal of Morticia and Gomez, as the chemistry and attractiveness between Anjelica Huston and Raul Julia in the films are not fully replicated. The unique dynamic of a beautiful couple equally drawn to each other was a refreshing departure from the typical comedic setups. In this regard, the series takes a step backward. These small moments of progress are missed and leave a longing for more.
"Wednesday" premiered on Netflix on November 23, 2022, and on January 6, 2023, Netflix announced the renewal of the series for a second season.
Wednesday Addams - info
- Release date: November 23, 2022
- Genre: Comedy horror
- Director: Alan Mak
- Writer: Charles Addams, Miles Millar, Alfred Gough, Kayla Alpert, April Blair
- Stars: Jenna Ortega, Hunter Doohan, Percy Hynes White