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Baby Reindeer may initially appear to follow a familiar narrative thread, but it swiftly diverges into uncharted territory. This Netflix series delves into the unsettling world of stalking, weaving a complex web of twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Based on Richard Gadd’s solo stage performance, Baby Reindeer unravels the consequences of a seemingly innocent act of kindness. Donny Dunn, a struggling comedian portrayed by Gadd himself, extends a simple gesture of hospitality to Martha, played by Jessica Gunning, by offering her a complimentary cup of tea. However, this seemingly benign action sets off a chain reaction, leading to Martha’s obsessive fixation on Donny and the subsequent turmoil that ensues.
Gadd emphasizes that Baby Reindeer is not intended to deliver a moral lesson to its audience. Instead, it serves as an autobiographical exploration of a tumultuous period in his life. In The True Story of Baby Reindeer, Gadd underscores the complexity of stalking, portraying it as a multifaceted issue devoid of clear-cut distinctions between right and wrong.
In a featurette accompanying the series, Gadd sheds light on the intricate interplay of events that culminated in the narrative’s dramatic crescendo. He refrains from portraying Martha as a one-dimensional villain, acknowledging her struggles with mental illness and aiming for a nuanced portrayal. Moreover, Gadd takes accountability for his own actions during that period, acknowledging his imperfections and the alternative paths he could have chosen.
However, despite its nuanced exploration of challenging themes, Baby Reindeer is unequivocally unsuitable for younger audiences. While it employs humor to alleviate some of the narrative’s weightiness, the series delves into deeply dark territory, featuring explicit sexual content and depictions of violence. Additionally, profanity and drug use further contribute to the mature nature of the content, warranting caution for parents considering exposing their children to the series.
With all seven episodes available for streaming on Netflix, Baby Reindeer offers a gripping yet sobering viewing experience best reserved for adult audiences.