- Critic's Rating - 9.8/109.8/10
“I can see the damage that’s done and it’s eroding every single one of us.”
Another great show by HBO which originated in the year 2017 – Big Little Lies returns for season 2. It is based on the novel of the same name by Liana Moriarty. She has written over eight adult novels out of which three have either been adapted for the screen or under process to be adapted – Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, The Husband’s Secret.
In 2017, Big Little Lies garnered attention due to its well-woven stories which finally closed their loops in a wonderfully shocking season finale. Also, it is one of those rare shows which are completely deals with women-centric issues and are women-driven as well.
All the episodes of the first season were directed by Jean-Marc Vallee (Dallas Buyers Club, Wild, Demolition and Amy Adams starrer HBO miniseries Sharp Objects). HBO handed over the baton to one of the best female directors Andrea Arnold (American Honey, Fish Tank, Wuthering Heights).
As if the electrifying performances put up by Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern were not enough, we have three times Oscar winner actress Meryl Streep into the mix. Streep plays the role of Mary Louise, Perry’s mother. Broken by Perry’s sudden demise she decides to move into the little town with her grandchildren. Being protective, she would never doubt Perry’s decisions given the fact that she is aware of his violent nature. When Perry’s wife Celeste questions Mary’s motive of moving in town, she is puzzled by the nature of replies.
The plot thickens by the second episode itself when the past is back to haunt all the characters in the present with varying intensity. The suspicion rises and soon one of the most-guarded secrets is revealed which throws all characters off guard.
By the third episode, Big Little Lies attain the stage of Nirvana. The plot, yet again, spreads in directions of each of the families involved. This, in turn, gives the viewers time, to get to the depth of each of the characters’ relations with each other. How the incident has impacted them in their personal and professional life is wide open for the first time to viewers at this scale. Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern put up excellent and invincible performances on screen- challenging Meryl Streep’s might. But over time, they realize that no one is invincible and nothing lasts forever. Mackenzie and Klein family have their own turmoil to deal with let alone Perry’s murder. One of the best parts of the show being the bitter relations between Witherspoon’s character and Adam Scott’s character. Both of the actors’ chemistry was a highlight of the show. However, the prime focus was the tussle between Celeste and Mary. This tussle is dragged till court. Nicole Kidman puts up a fine and balanced performance.
A vibe of the modern California with scenic Big Sur coastline and carmel by the sea offers soothing side to a drama which becomes intense with its characters’ arc. Andrea’s direction is on the heels of Jean Valle for the portrayal of Monterey Five- a warm & soulful breeze.
You may also like: The Spy: Netflix tense and unpredictable spy-world reality based on an Israeli spy’s life
Big Little Lies has emerged as one of the must watch shows of the year. Even after season two, it remains the epitome of modern dramas. The viewers have to wait and watch if this would be renewed for another season. But, it stands as a quintessential drama which suits to everyone’s taste. What HBO lost in Game Of Thrones season eight, it gained in Big Little Lies and Chernobyl.
Add Comment