BABY REINDEER has taken audiences to a dark place where two lost souls are woven into an extremely desperate world filled with self-doubt and self-loathing. It is confusing because there is no way to label this limited series, and that pushes viewers to binge each episode with hopes of understanding where the story is going.
BABY REINDEER was written and produced by Richard Gadd. He also plays the lead male role as Donny Dunn. It is based on a true story which makes the bizarre plot even more disturbing. Richard is phenomenal. His downcast stares, silent beats, and facial expressions are perfect. His huge reveal on stage was breathtaking. I wept with him, but I was able to find reality. Donny Dunn was from another dimension, but I stand in awe of his powerful, masterful delivery.
Jessica Gunning as Martha was outstanding. Her laugh, her force of tenacity, and her talent are brilliant. She permitted us over and over to believe her intimate words and actions. Jessica’s performance was cruel, raw, quirky, and gut-wrenching. Her character will haunt me.
The entire ensemble gave audiences memorable moments especially Nava Mau as Teri. Her role shared tremendous insight within the trans world. Kudos.
The pacing was fast. The use of highlighting strangely typed emails helped set the tone. It was a harrowing journey that I don’t want to take again but can’t forget anytime soon.
HOW I SEE IT…as a visually impaired person with limited sight, there were quick scenes of fighting and scuffling on the floor that were hard to catch. The colors are dull and dark at times, and the use of typing Martha’s emails and messages on the screen is difficult to read in the amount of time given. It will require rewatching certain film frames to be sure of what the writer and director want the audience to see clearly.
BABY REINDEER is not for everyone. It is sexual, gritty, and pathetic. It twists a person’s heartstrings, yet it is impossible to stop watching. I finished within 24 hours. Was it a waste of my time? I am not sure, but the authentic acting took my breath away. I can’t stop talking about it.
BABY REINDEER is streaming on Netflix.Â
