The newest addition to the extensive Addams Family cinematography collection is here. Directed by the legendary gothic writer Tim Burton, the Wednesday series follows the family’s daughter, 16 year old Wednesday, who is sent to a boarding school for members of the occult that her parents once attended. Many people were anticipating the show, wondering if it would hold up to the strong legacy and influence of its predecessors. 

The show was proven successful in introducing a new generation to the Addams Family. With both old and new fans to the long-living family, the show’s expectations and reviews have been mixed. The series in itself was nothing revolutionary, but was by no means terrible either. Much like the My Babysitter’s a Vampire series, It was a cute teenage supernatural dramedy that certainly had its moments of both brilliant and questionable writing. 

Wednesday had a slow start, with the first few episodes being filled with surreal amounts of cringe-worthy moments, including one of the main characters saying “this kitty’s got claws and I’m not afraid to use them,” in episode one. It seemed tacky and predictable, but as it went on, the originality grew moment by moment. The characters grew more developed and relatable, even with the magical elements. Viewers could relate and feel a sense of emotional connection that got more intense as the show progressed.

Writers were able to create a beautifully blended element from its source material into a modern day time, a concept that is often overplayed and unnecessary. While many shows strive to do so, this show was one of the few in which the modern day elements of a historic story felt natural and fitting. It was both classic and fresh, original yet comfortably familiar. The characters had depth, allowing for even a seemingly emotionless main character to masterfully showcase moments of vulnerability.

This is partially thanks to Jenna Ortega’s strong performance. Playing a character that both has a legacy to uphold and is known for having no emotions is difficult, to say the least. Throughout Ortega’s performance, she is rarely seen blinking. Some have even speculated that the blinking only occurs during emotional scenes for the character, which has proven to be true. The character is certainly brilliantly brought to life, both in thanks to the directors and writers, and the powerful acting from a young woman who finally got her well deserved breakout role after years in the industry. 

Overall, this show was not a life-changer, but was a fun and worthwhile watch. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it was a thrilling mystery with plot twists that kept the audience hooked, even if it may not be from episode one.