The Beast in Me Review

Netflix's limited-series have to be some of my favorite Netflix originals out there. While yes, there are oddballs and ones that completely miss the mark, they are at least their own tight stories wrapped in a bow. None of that 1 season and it's cancelled nonsense that Netflix likes to pull. And over the last week I ran into a real treat, one that I began watching on a whim. But that's usually when you strike gold, and I definitely did.

The Beast in Me tells the tale of writer Agatha Wiggs and her journey writing a biography on her newest neighbor, Nile Jarvis. It is unknown whether Nile had killed his previous wife, but Aggie thinks the danger she experiences while obtaining the information for this book could add to a great story. That is the basic premise. And I will not spoil how that story unfolds, I would instead suggest giving it a go if it sounds remotely your speed.

Nile is played by actor Matthew Rhys and gives an incredible performance. The level of quiet intimidation he exudes, and the burst of strong emotions where needed, make for a very compelling character. Nile is the character you love to hate, and Rhys does not disappoint in portraying just that. His performance was probably my favorite of the bunch, but Claire Danes as Aggie Wiggs really knocked it out of the park as well. She has this constant buzz of anxiety about her, even before Nile comes into the picture. You could just tell she was in her own chaotic mental world. Her actions shout confidence, but her words, her tone, betrays her inner discomfort. I of course have to mention Jonathan Banks (commonly recognized for his role as Mike Ehrmantraut in Breaking Bad) who plays Nile's father. He adds his usual "pizzaz" to the Martin Jarvis character, cold yet caring, commanding yet softspoken. I would expect nothing less.

Overall I think the story is well-paced, it doesn't overstay its welcome. Which is, again, a major benefit from it being a limited-series. They told a story, and now it's over. And what a story it was. It's a show that I at some point am bound to watch again, hopefully to share it with a friend.