Classics: A Review of Miracle on 34th Street By Lauren Ennis

M   Media hysteria, shocking court hearings, dubious political dealings and suspicious mass mail drops prove to be the makings of...a Christmas miracle?! The 1947 classic Miracle on 34th Street somehow manages to piece together these elements and more to relate a fable for our times. The film follows a department store Santa (who just might be the real thing) whose innocent efforts to spread Christmas cheer place him both under psychiatric evaluation and in front of a judge. Beneath its warmth and whimsy this heartwarming holiday tale relates lessons in decency, resilience, and faith that resonate now more than ever.

The story begins on Thanksgiving with Macy's event director Doris Walker struggling to salvage the store's parade after the Santa she had hired arrives for work drunk. Fortunately, concerned bystander Kris Kringle appears on the scene and offers to stand in for the inebriated employee. Kris' performance during the parade proves so successful that he is hired as the store's Santa for the remainder of the season. Throughout his employment, Kris is nothing less than delightful as he entertains the store’s customers and teaches Doris’ mature daughter, Susan, the joys of being a kid. Cynical Doris, however, decides that the old man is taking the Santa act too far and tries to fire him for fear that he is unstable and a company liability. When Mr. Macy himself advises her against the decision she instead recommends that Kris schedule an appointment with the store's on-staff psychiatrist. The appointment results in a series of misunderstandings that result in Kris being committed to Bellevue Hospital’s psychiatric ward. Doris’ neighbor, lawyer Fred Gaily, then takes it upon himself to defend Kris at a sanity hearing by proving that Kris is not only perfectly sane, but also the real Santa Claus.

B    The film's infectious cheer has mesmerized generations, but it is its call to faith and integrity in a cynical age that has earned Miracle on 34th Street a place in cinema history. Throughout the film those who remain true to their beliefs and fail to adhere to popular norms are dismissed as misguided or even unstable. In an era in which media members, medical experts, and political leaders dictate a firm but not necessarily factual narrative Kris' plight eerily reflects that of millions who have been silenced, derided, and even persecuted for questioning the powers that be. Even when all hope seems lost, however, Kris never loses sight of his beliefs or waivers in his determination to remain true to them. In this way, Kris elevates Santa Claus beyond a benevolent fairy tale figure to a role model we all could learn from.

     When Fred offers to take Kris' case he defends his decision by saying "It's not just Kris that's on trial, it's everything that he stands for. It's kindness and joy and love and all of the other intangibles". After a year of political, economic, social, and personal upheaval those 'intangibles' that Fred refers to seem better suited for the fairy tales that Susan dismisses than real life. Yet it is in times of struggle and division such as these that those intangibles matter most. It is these invisible ties of joy, love, hope, and faith that bind us together even as everything around us seems set to tear us apart. As the holiday season descends upon us once again it is imperative that we find light in the midst of the darkness surrounding us and remember that those little intangibles truly are the only things worthwhile.  

Just ordinary election-I mean trial- procedure...

The film comes to vibrant life thanks to the warmth and wit of its cast. Philip Tonge is riotous in his turn as anxiety ridden toy department manager Mr. Shellhammer. Gene Lockhart infuses his performance as Judge Harper with wisdom and decency. William Frawley is memorable in his brief appearance as Judge Harper's cynical but savvy political strategist, Charlie Halloran. Porter Hall is a villain viewers will love to hate as self-important bureaucrat Mr. Sawyer. In her first major role Natalie Wood displays a subtlety, nuance, and realism in her performance as precocious Susan that foreshadows her later screen success. John Payne personifies honesty and idealism and makes for a charming romantic lead as Fred Gailey. Maureen O'Hara is captivating in her portrayal of the well-meaning, but world weary Doris. Edmund Gwenn shines in a performance that exudes such kindness, cheer, and warmth that viewers will be left wondering if he might really be Santa Claus off-screen as well as on.

 Miracle on 34th Street is a holiday tale that is guaranteed to warm your heart throughout the year. Through its equal parts warm and witty script and infectious performances the film weaves a spell that is nothing short of cinema magic. In a year in which so many of us could use a Christmas miracle have a little faith and join Fred, Doris, Susan and Kris in Miracle on 34th Street.

Classics: A Review of My Cousin Vinny By Lauren Ennis

The court system is known as one of the most sacred institutions in America. It is within the hallowed halls of the nation's court rooms that life and death and guilt and innocence hang in the balance. Who would have thought that these same halls would also be ripe for comedic potential? The 1992 film My Cousin Vinny combines the familiar elements of classic court room drama with fish-out-of-water comedy and then subverts both genres with hilarious results. Through its focus upon the inner workings of the law the film sends up the legal profession with a wit and charm that is certain to leave even the most hardened of litigators laughing. Nearly thirty years after its release My Cousin Vinny continues to make the case for its status as a comedy classic.

The story begins with two New York college students, Billy and Stan, taking a trip below the Mason Dixon line where they immediately realize that they are both fish out of water and completely over their heads. After inadvertently shoplifting in an Alabama convenience store the duo are arrested, not for theft but murder. Desperate to defend themselves against capital charges, the boys enlist the help of Billy's cousin, recent law school graduate Vinny. Wise guy Vinny soon arrives in Alabama armed with zero courtroom experience, a hair-trigger temper, and a tough talking fiancée. The film then follows his increasingly outrageous attempts to remain one step ahead of the defense in a case that places his career, his relationship, and his cousin's life on the line.

The film's original poster reads "There have been many courtroom dramas that glorify the Great American Legal System. This is not one of them", that tagline is correct, My Cousin Vinny, does not glorify the American legal system; it does something infinitely more interesting. Rather than following courtroom drama clichés the film instead chronicles the inner workings of one criminal case. As a result, the film lends viewers apt insight into the crucial, but less than exciting, aspects of legal work that Hollywood all too often leaves out. In this way the script pays homage to the men and women of the legal profession without glamorizing them and ensures that the film remains firmly within the realm of reality. 

Even in the midst of so much legal drama the film successfully delivers one laugh after another. The film aptly utilizes its 'fish out of water' premise with culture and personality clashes that are played to maximum comedic effect. The film particularly succeeds by presenting seemingly stereotypical characters and then subverting those same stereotypes. For example scrappy and streetwise Vinny begins the case as arguably the most incompetent attorney to enter a courtroom only to eventually prove himself a formidable litigator. Similarly, Vinny's seemingly ditzy fiancée, Lisa, ultimately outwits attorneys for both the prosecution and defense. The film also succeeds through its ability to present viewers with outrageous characters with such affection and humanity that viewers will be hard pressed not to relate to and root for them. Through its winning combination of law and laughs My Cousin Vinny takes any semblance of order out of the court. 

The film's colorful array of characters come to whimsical life thanks to the work of the expert cast. Ralph Macchio and Mitchell Whitfield convey a believable sense of camaraderie and make for a likeable duo as Billy and Stan. Lane Smith oozes smarmy charm as slick prosecutor Jim Trotter. Fred Gwynne infuses his role as Judge Chambers with a dignity and dry wit that ground much of the film's proceedings. Marisa Tomei steals each scene in which she appears, more than earning her Oscar win for her turn as Vinnie's equal parts smart and smart mouthed fiancée, Mona Lisa Vito. Even in the midst of expert comedic performances the film belongs to Joe Pesci who lends what is easily his most complex performance as larger than life underdog Vinny.

Plenty has changed since 1992, but My Cousin Vinny still garners just as many laughs as it did upon its initial release. The script's balance between the realistic and the ridiculous ensures that each punch line still packs a powerful punch. The cast brings the script to life with an expert comedic skill that many comedies could take a cue from today. The verdict is in, My Cousin Vinny is a comedy that is guaranteed to leave the defense, the prosecution, and everyone in between laughing out loud.

Classics: A Review of Cobra Kai By Lauren Ennis

With a final infamous crane kick The Karate Kid concluded one of the great underdog stories and a cinema legend was born. The franchise then went on to follow its unlikely hero, Daniel Larusso, as he faced enemies both at home and abroad to become "the best around". In 2018 the franchise returned to follow an arguably even more unlikely hero; The Karate Kid's original villain, Johnny Lawrence. In the hit series Cobra Kai Johnny returns to reclaim his place both on and off of the mat and turns out some of the most surprisingly compelling television in recent memory along the way. 

No mercy

The story begins thirty-five years after Daniel defeated Johnny in the All-Valley Under Eighteen Karate Tournament with the two effectively switching roles. Former underdog Daniel is now an all around success enjoying a happy family life while owning a profitable chain of car dealerships. Johnny, meanwhile, has taken the opposite trajectory and is now divorced, estranged from his son, and reduced to working odd jobs to make ends meet. When bullied teen Miguel moves into Johnny's apartment complex history repeats itself and before you can say 'wax on, wax off' Johnny becomes the boy's sensei and reopens his old dojo, Cobra Kai. Old rivalries are reignited when Johnny crosses paths with Daniel who has (unknowingly) begun training Johnny's estranged son, Robby. After the two face off in an all too familiar tournament at the end of season one the second season adds even more drama as Daniel opens his own dojo and the senseis' bitter rivalry carries down to their students. By the second season's conclusion the past and present collide in a stunning finale that leaves the future of Johnny, Daniel, and their dojos hanging in the balance and is certain to leave viewers begging for more.

Through its combination of heart, humor, and action Cobra Kai kicks the competition. The series successfully strikes a balance between paying apt homage to the original films and building an original story. Rather than merely acting as a nostalgic rehash of the franchise the series instead adds depth and nuance to returning characters while introducing plenty of fresh faces. The series particularly succeeds in adding shades of grey to the black and white characterizations in the original films, enabling the series to function equally well as a character study and a sports drama. Best of all, the series invests in each of its characters in a way that ensures that viewers will remain on the edge of their seats as they watch each of its diverse plot lines unfold. Even as the script delves into domestic and sports drama the series uses its cross-generational tale to highlight and poke fun at the norms of both the 1980's and today with uproarious results. In this way the series ensures that the proceedings never veer into melodrama and that its story has something to offer the entire family. Striking an ideal balance between comedy, and drama Cobra Kai offers something for Gen X, Gen Z, and everyone in between for some of the best viewing around. 

Balance is key

The world of The Karate Kid is brilliantly revived thanks to the butt-kicking performances of the series' ensemble cast. Newcomer Xolo Mariduena makes for a welcome addition to the franchise as he expertly portrays Miguel's journey from bullied underdog to conflicted Cobra Kai champion. Similarly, Tanner Buchanan aptly depicts bad-boy Robby's efforts to reinvent himself under Daniel's guidance. Mary Mouser conveys infectious charm as Daniel's daughter and the object of both Miguel and Robby's affections, Samantha. Peyton List captures each scene in which she appears as Samantha's magnetic rival in karate and romance, Tory. Martin Kove seamlessly returns to his role as John Kreese, and recaptures his performance as the original bad sensei in all of its smarmy, sinister, glory. Even in the midst of impressive ensemble performances, however, the series undoubtedly belongs to William Zabka and Ralph Macchio as they brilliantly reprise their roles as rivals Johnny and Daniel. Zabka infuses Johnny with a world weariness, earnestness, and humor that is certain to leave viewers rooting for the former bully. Similarly, Macchio's performance showcases new dimensions and complexity as he aptly portrays Daniel's struggle to reconcile his past and present.

Even as its heroes struggle to find their inner balance Cobra Kai strikes an ideal balance between laughs, cheers, and even the occasional tear. At once refreshingly original and warmly nostalgic the series relates a unique tale that perfectly completes The Karate Kid franchise. Through its endlessly entertaining script and enormously engaging performances the series provides just the kick that audiences have been waiting for. For a true knockout of a series start training with Cobra Kai.

Classics: A Review of The Haunting of Bly Manor By Lauren Ennis

When couples marry they agree to be united 'til death do us part'; a romantic notion that takes an ominous turn in The Haunting of Bly Manor. This gothic romance explores the lengths at which we will go to be with those we love, even when that means staring into the ghostly face of death itself. Adapted from the works of Henry James, this series weaves a tapestry of interlocking tales of love, loss, regret, and redemption that is guaranteed to make your spine tingle and your heart ache. Blending real life fears with supernatural frights  The Haunting of Bly Manor crafts an intricate puzzle that is certain to haunt audiences long after its final episode is viewed.

There's no place like home...

The story begins in 1987 London as American teacher Dani Clayton accepts a job working as a nanny to two young children at a sprawling country estate. In spite of the staff's warm welcome, Dani immediately senses that all is not as it appears at Bly Manor. While the children, Miles and Flora, are every bit as clever and talented as their uncle described they are also in the throes of grief after the recent loss of both their parents and their former nanny. Although the staff dismisses the siblings' unsettling behaviors as harmless coping mechanisms, Dani quickly begins to suspect that something more sinister is at play. Centuries of tragedy and trauma collide forcing each of the estate's residents to confront the darkness lurking within both the walls of Bly Manor and the confines of their own souls. 

Critics and fans alike have lamented that The Haunting of Bly Manor is not as scary as its 2018 predecessor, The Haunting of Hill House, but in my estimation, it is in many ways even scarier. While the halls of Bly Manor may not contain the obvious thrills and jump scares that seemed to wait around every corner of Hill House they do reveal something altogether more terrifying. Whereas The Haunting of Hill House used a host of gruesome ghouls as apt metaphors for childhood trauma, The Haunting of Bly Manor explores the all too real psychological horrors that we inflict upon ourselves and those we love. The series then adds another layer of terror to its proceedings by highlighting the ways in which that same pain and suffering can live on even after we die. Even as it captures the foreboding spirit of classic gothic literature The Haunting of Bly Manor pushes beyond genre limitations to explore existential questions surrounding memory, mortality, and isolation that will leave even the most self-assured of viewers pondering the ghosts in their own lives  As the series' central mystery unfolds each of its clues proves more unnerving than the last as it gradually builds to a conclusion that is nothing short of devastating. For a ghost story which is sure to haunt you long after its final credits roll be sure to pay a visit to Bly Manor.

The haunted happenings at Bly Manor come to eerie life thanks to the expert work of the series' cast. The Haunting of Hill House alums Victoria Pedretti and Oliver Jackson-Cohen return in roles that could not be more different than their turns as tortured twins Nell and Luke. Pedretti infuses her performance as Dani with warmth and strength in equal measure. Jackson-Cohen conveys con-man charm and an underlying menace in his magnetic turn as valet Peter Quint. Henry Thomas also returns and outshines his performance in The Haunting of Hill House in his tormented portrayal of the children's uncle, Henry Wingrave. Tahira Sharif is nothing short of hypnotizing as the children's first nanny, Rebecca Jessel and portrays Rebecca's downward spiral with heartbreaking realism. T'Nia Miller steals each scene in which she appears as the manor's loving but haunted housekeeper, Hannah Grosse. Rahul Kohli is endlessly endearing as the manor's good natured chef, Owen Sharma. Amelia Eve infuses gruff gardener Jaime with a wit and charm that is nothing short of infectious. Amelie Bea Smith and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth both turn in star-making performances that belie their years as Flora and Miles.

Throughout the series the characters describe Bly Manor as 'a great, good, place', a description that applies equally well to the series that bears its name. Through its maze of plot twists and emotional turns of the screw the series weaves a spell which will keep viewers captivated long after they leave the grounds of Bly behind. Thanks to the expert work of its cast the series pays a heartbreaking homage to classic horror while still offering plenty of fresh chills. For viewing to die for, treat yourself to a perfectly splendid stay in The Haunting of Bly Manor.

What, me creepy?!

Classics: A Review of Frankenweenie By Lauren Ennis

 

Few directors' work is as unique or instantly recognizable as that of Tim Burton. Over the course of his lengthy career his name has become synonymous with his innate ability to fuse a gothic sensibility with an infectious sense of child-like wonder. His 2012 film Frankenweenie uses the director's signature offbeat charm to relay a unique story of love, loss, and hope that is guaranteed to soften even the hardest of hearts. This Halloween curl up with your favorite furry friend and enjoy viewing that is every bit as sweet and spooky as a night of trick-or-treating with Frankenweenie.

It's alive!!

The story begins with young Victor showing his parents his latest labor of love; a home made monster movie starring his dog, Sparky. While introverted Victor is all too happy to devote his time to Sparky and his hobbies, his parents become concerned that he needs to spend more time with his classmates. In an effort to help him make friends, Victor's parents encourage him to play baseball with the neighborhood kids. Tragedy strikes, however, when Victor hits a home run only for Sparky to chase the ball into the street and in front of an oncoming car. Sparky is killed instantly, and devastated Victor spirals into a deep depression. Fate intervenes, however, when Victor's science teacher gives a lesson on electricity's ability to reanimate muscles. He then takes inspiration from his famous namesake and conducts an experiment that revives Sparky. The duo's happy reunion is threatened, however, when Victor's classmates discover Sparky's resurrection and scheme to use his discovery to conduct their own experiments at the upcoming school science fair. When his classmates' experiments go dangerously awry its up to Victor to save the day all while keeping Sparky's secret safe.

This classic tale of a boy and his dog showcases a goodhearted ghoulishness that is guaranteed to appeal to kids and adults alike. The film's off-kilter visuals place Burton's penchant for the weird and whimsical on full display while the sincere script ensures that viewers will be rooting for its oddball heroes every step of the way. The film's blend of style and substance strikes an ideal balance with enough quirky visuals and gothic references to satisfy even the most devoted of the director's fans while the universal tale of love and loss is sure to win over even the most skeptical of critics. Despite its macabre atmosphere and abundance of PG chills Frankenweenie is a film with a tender and beating heart that sets it apart from Burton's more recent, lackluster, efforts. At one point Victor's teacher says that experiments have the best results when there is love behind them; it's evident with every frame that Frankenweenie was created as a labor of love and the film is all the better for it.

Is there a vet in the house?!

The surreal story rampages off of the screen thanks to the film's dazzling animation and engaging voice performances. The black and white cinematography adds to the eerie atmosphere and the expert use of light and shadow lends a spooky quality to the shadows lurking around every corner. The character designs recall the illustrations of Burton favorite Edward Gorey and nods to such horror classics as Frankenstein, Godzilla, and Nosferatu. The voice performances bring the film's array of offbeat characters to life with humor, emotion, and depth. Standout performances include Charlie Tahan as grief stricken Victor, Winona Ryder as his morbid neighbor, Elsa, Martin Landau as his eccentric science teacher, and Catherine O'Hara in dual roles as Victor's mother and his unusual classmate known only as 'Weird Girl'.

Equal parts creepy and cuddly Frankenweenie is must see Halloween viewing. The animation is a feast for the eyes and the script is certain to break your heart only to stitch it back together again. The film combines the best elements of vintage Burton to create an original masterpiece that will appeal to the whole family. For viewing that is simply to die for join Victor and Sparky in Frankenweenie.

Now that is what I call chemistry!

Classics: Miyagi Knows Best: Three Life Lessons From The Karate Kid By Lauren Ennis

 In the summer of 1984 a kid from New Jersey met a handyman from Okinawa and movie magic was made. Much like its unassuming hero, the deceptively simple coming of age tale The Karate Kid is one of cinema's greatest underdogs. With two film sequels, one Oscar nomination, endless quotable lines and now a hit Netflix spinoff this surprise hit remains the best around thirty-six years after its initial release. While the film is best remembered for launching Ralph Macchio's status as an 80's icon and popularizing karate in the United States, it is the film's characters that ensure its continued resonance. By far the most memorable and inspiring of the film's characters is Mr. Miyagi, whose lessons proved vital not only in karate, but also in life. This week I'll be turning the spotlight on Mr. Miyagi and three of his greatest lessons.

                                

Balance is Key: Mr. Miyagi's first lesson for Daniel is "Learn balance. Balance good, karate good, everything good. Balance bad might as well pack up, go home". Given the fact that balance is the foundation of martial arts and many other sports, Mr. Miyagi's advice seems fairly straightforward. As the story progresses, however, it becomes apparent that the balance that he is referring to is not merely physical but also an emotional, spiritual, and philosophical state of being. At the film's start Daniel's entire being is thrown out of balance when he moves across the country and is forced to start a new life in California. Despite his best efforts to adjust to his new school he quickly finds himself targeted by bullies led by Cobra Kai's top karate student, Johnny. The constant harassment leads Daniel to retreat from his social life and avoid his classmates as his existence becomes reduced to a struggle to survive one day to the next. It is only when he begins training with Mr. Miyagi and reevaluating his perspective that Daniel finally begins to regain his sense of balance as he steadily gains confidence and reclaims his sense of self. By the film's conclusion Daniel has finally achieved a balanced life after making a true friend, embarking upon a healthy romantic relationship, and finding a lifelong passion. It is this achievement rather than his famous crane kick that ensures that he is already a winner even before he steps onto the tournament mat. Next time that you feel like life's throwing you off of your game take a deep breath and remember, "Lesson not just karate only. Lesson for whole life. Whole life have a balance. Everything be better"

More Mercy: The motto of the notoriously ruthless Cobra Kai dojo is "Strike hard, strike fast, no mercy". While this philosophy may ensure that Cobra Kai's students are victorious on the mat Mr. Miyagi reminds Daniel that such a victory is hollow at best. At the start of The Karate Kid II Daniel and Mr. Miyagi witness Johnny's sensei, John Kreese, viciously beating Johnny as punishment for only earning second place in the tournament. After Mr. Miyagi intervenes on Johnny's behalf Kreese attacks Mr. Miyagi only to realize that he is outmatched. Before he can deliver a lethal blow, however, Mr. Miyagi releases Kreese with a warning. When Daniel asks why Mr. Miyagi let Kreese go Mr. Miyagi replies, "For person with no forgiveness in heart living worse punishment than death". This quote accurately summarizes how Kreese's 'no mercy' philosophy has destroyed his humanity and reduced him to an existence defined by anger and bitterness. This is further highlighted in The Karate Kid III when Kreese is later revealed to have become consumed by a vengeful obsession with Daniel and Mr. Miyagi after he loses his students, business, and reputation following his attack on Johnny.

The value of forgiveness is shown in The Karate Kid II when Daniel and Mr. Miyagi travel to Japan and encounter Mr. Miyagi's best friend turned embittered enemy, Sato. After Sato's betrothed, Yukea, ended their engagement to pursue a relationship with Mr. Miyagi Sato refused to forgive either of them, and lost two of the most important people in his life. Despite achieving wealth and power decades later, Sato continues to dwell upon his past and has become a hardened shell of a man. When Sato is injured during a typhoon Mr. Miyagi sets their differences aside and risks his own life to rescue his former friend. This selfless act allows both men to make peace with their pasts and transforms Sato, who is finally able to move forward with his life. The next time that someone deals you a low blow choose the higher path; in a world full of Sato's and Kreese's be a Miyagi.  

Never Let Your Fears Defeat You: Over the course of the franchise Daniel faces an array of opponents, but none of those opponents is more dangerous than his own fear. In The Karate Kid III, Kreese enlists the aid of ruthless karate champion Mike Barnes in finally exacting his revenge upon Daniel. After enduring Mike's relentless tormenting Daniel loses his confidence both on and off of the mat. During their final tournament fight Mike viciously attacks Daniel both physically and mentally. After suffering an injury Daniel nearly surrenders and tells Mr. Miyagi, "I just want to go home...I'm afraid of him, okay. I'm afraid". Mr. Miyagi then reminds Daniel that while he will inevitably lose to some opponents he must never lose to his own fear. It is then that Daniel regains his confidence just in time to win the match.

Mr. Miyagi's advice echoes Franklin Delano Roosevelt's famous speech upon his election at the height of the Great Depression in which he advised the American people that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself". When President Roosevelt made this speech he was not denying the reality of the Depression, but instead reminding the country of the importance of continuing to fight even in the face of unprecedented adversity. Whether facing a national crisis, entering a sports tournament, conducting a job interview, or asking out a crush the surest ways to guarantee that we do not succeed are quitting and failing to try in the first place. In life we will inevitably face adversaries and obstacles that will defeat us, but we are only defeated by fear if we allow ourselves to be. Bravery does not mean never being scared, it means carrying on even we are at our most intimidated. Whenever you find yourself confronted with your own fear face it head on and remember that whether you win or lose you'll still have earned a victory just by trying.

Classics: A Review of Broadchurch By Lauren Ennis

The words 'small town' immediately bring images of hearth, home, and family to mind; unless of course the small town in question is the English suburb of Broadchurch. From 2013 to 2016 viewers spent three seasons among the citizens of this seemingly sleepy town and uncovered a web of secrecy, betrayal, and loss lying just beneath its picturesque surface. What begins as a murder mystery quickly spirals into a journey into the darkest depths of humanity as neighbors, friends, and families find themselves confronted with evil in their midst. Thought provoking, heart breaking, pulse pounding, and impossible to predict, Broadchurch is more than just a first rate crime drama, it's an eerie reflection of the darkest places within both our communities and ourselves.

 The story begins with the calm of suburban life shattered when the body of eleven year old Danny Latimer is found on a beach in Broadchurch. The disturbing discovery turns sinister when local police determine that Danny's death was not a tragic accident, but murder. An investigation is quickly launched with local detective Ellie Miller and her recently arrived boss, Alec Hardy, forming a reluctant team. At first, the two clash as Miller refuses to consider that any of her friends or neighbors could be suspects while Hardy views each of the town's residents with suspicion. As the investigation unfolds, however, it becomes clear that all is not as it appears in Broadchurch and not everyone is who they appear to be.

Broadchurch elevates the modern crime drama to new heights as it expands its scope beyond the crime itself to chronicle its devastating impact. The series deftly portrays the ways in which tragedy upends an entire community and pits it against itself as the police conflict with the press, neighbors clash with one another, and even families begin to question their loyalties. The depiction of the Latimer family as they journey through the anguish of grief is nothing short of wrenching and serves as an apt reminder of the void that remains long after a crime is solved. Although the series is structured as a murder mystery at its heart it is a character study, and therein lies its strength.  Broadchurch focuses less on action than reaction as it gradually unfolds and reveals fresh insight into each of the town's troubled residents with every new clue. In this way, the series ensures that viewers will invest in and empathize with each member of the ensemble cast and highlights the ways in which the effects of a crime ricochet throughout a community. Even as viewers learn more about the diverse cast of characters, however, the central mystery remains just out of reach and leaves viewers guessing until the final, devastating, reveal. Through its expert writing and superb performances Broadchurch is guaranteed to leave viewers nearly as haunted as its residents.

The story leaps off of the screen thanks to the work of its brilliant cast. Carolyn Pickles, Jonathan Bailey, and Vicky McClure lend depth and humor to their roles as local journalists Maggie, Olly, and Karen while aptly highlighting the ways in which ambition can cloud even the best reporter's judgment. Charlotte Beaumont and Adam Wilson tackle their roles with a raw emotion that belies their young ages as they depict the conflicting emotions of Danny's best friend and sister. Pauline Quirk and Joe Sims lend intrigue, dry wit, and menace to their performances as local recluse Susan and family friend Nige. Arthur Darville conveys warmth and empathy as Broadchurch's vicar. David Bradley perfectly balances newsstand owner Jack's gruff exterior with his inner torment. Matthew Gravelle infuses his performance as Ellie's husband with depth, intelligence, and charm. Jodi Whittaker and Andrew Buchan are perfectly cast as Danny's parents and portray the couple's descent into grief with a realism that is nothing short of haunting. Even in the midst of the talented ensemble cast, however, David Tennet and Olivia Colman shine as Detectives Miller and Hardy. Tennet's socially inept but professionally brilliant Hardy and Colman's ambitious but idealistic Miller act as ideal foils to one another and are guaranteed to go down as one of the best crime duos in television history.

Through its unflinching portrayal of a murder and the destruction left in its wake Broachurch sets itself apart as a crime drama with both a mind and an aching heart. Through its skillfully written script the series transports viewers into both the modern English suburbs and the universal depths of human nature. The nuanced performances bring each of the series' complex characters to such vivid life that they are certain to remain on viewers' minds long after all of their secrets are revealed. For unforgettable viewing pay a visit to Broadchurch.