Penny Dreadful is a show that I randomly came across while searching for upcoming new TV series of 2014. Now that the first episode has finally premiered, I am happy to say that I enjoyed every minute of it. First, let's talk about the atmosphere and overall look of the show. Atmosphere was a key element in another new series that I recently reviewed called "Salem" which took place in the old days of Salem, Massachusetts. I praised that show for succeeding in having me feel as if I was there in that setting amongst the characters (due to its visuals and set design). The same attention to detail can be said about Penny Dreadful with it's structures, items in the world, clothing, set designs, and overall visual style in color and atmosphere. The production values are quite high in the quality of the show just based on the way it looks. I could easily mistake it for being a film at a first glance with its cinematic look. The music is also noteworthy as it perfectly compliments the mood of the show. Slowly riding along the scenes are orchestral pieces setting every moment when needed. Thats the key thing to point out as well, "when needed". Some shows tend to easily ruin moments with an unnecessary use of loudly banging "epic" music. With that said, I commend the show for knowing when to have music added in to enhance the feel of the show.
Now as far as characters go, I am more than intrigued with what has been revealed thus far. Different characters have been spotlighted, but the focus is on a man looking for his daughter who has been taken away by a supernatural force. This by itself is a story worth engaging in, but there are other interesting stories intertwined as well. A fortune teller with an unrevealed connection to Malcolm helping him on his mission, but is also threatened by a supernatural force. A showman with highly impressive skills with guns is offered a job to help Malcolm find his daughter but is uncertain whether or not he should follow after witnessing the supernatural forces for the first time on their first mission. Last, but not least is Victor Frankenstein himself (brilliantly revealed in the final seconds of the show) who has been asked by Malcolm to help him with his task by utilizing his skills in surgery. Of course the iconic story of Frankenstein is revealed as a reincarnated corpse created by Victor is brought to life before his eyes during a lightning storm. So with the first episode on its own, we have a plethora of possibilities with different story-lines weaving together. So many mysteries worth looking into with various directions that the can go. You have characters with a rich sense of potential and an atmosphere that is worth being invested in. You have great actors giving great performances and the production values to match the quality. I can easily say as far as first impressions go, Penny Dreadful has won me over more than any other show in quite some time. I look forward to seeing where this series go.
Rating: 10/10
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