In a time where there are so many shows and movies to stream, it’s easy to miss some of the best shows out there. With so many options, it just feels easier to rewatch something we have already seen instead of trying out something new. Or, if you are like me, you end up only watching what everyone else says is popular on Netflix, just so you can keep up with the trends. But I’m here to tell you about one show that might have slipped under your radar: Killing Eve. In it, the title character is a MI5 security officer who lands her dream job as a spy, tasked with hunting down a notorious female assassin.
At first, this didn’t sound like my cup of tea, but after watching a few episodes (thanks for bingeing with me Mom!) I realized this dark thriller is both quirky and hilarious.
So instead of turning on The Office for the tenth time or Tiger King because that’s what’s trending, here’s why you should be watching this criminally underrated tv show.
- The Story
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As I mentioned, Killing Eve follows Eve Polastri and her pursuit of a mysterious assassin, Villanelle. By the end of the first season, the series becomes a fast-paced hunt across several European countries. But in this apparent game of cat and mouse, it’s hard to figure out just who is hunting who. It makes for an interesting dynamic between the spy and the assassin, as curiosity turns into obsession. I love the psychological complexity of the series, and I never know who to trust when watching.
- The Leads
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Eve is played by Sandra Oh, who we all know from her phenomenal acting days on Grey’s Anatomy. But here, she is on an entire new level, where she has become one of the most compelling female television characters in recent history. And right alongside her, Jodie Cormer as Villanelle. This character has so many layers, and somehow, it’s not possible to root against the murderous psychopath. Both of these actresses have won Emmys for their roles, with performances that definitely deserve the recognition. Honestly though, the whole cast of supporting characters is amazing, and I want to know more about all of them and see where the relationships go!
- The Thrills
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The show has so many edge-of-your-seat moments. There are unexpected twists and turns, and you’re never fully prepared for what comes next. OF course, as Villanelle is a killer for hire, it can be a bit grim at time, but the focus always comes back to the psychology of the killer and the spy. Villanelle is intelligent, quick-witted, and has limitless confidence, making her feel like a ticking time bomb just waiting to explode as Eve tracks her. As one of the best villains on television, you never know what card she has up her sleeve.
- The General Vibes
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I’m saying it here, BBC America makes some of the best and most compelling television airing currently. Everything ranging from the atmosphere, cinematography, editing, and so forth is all so excellent, and just *chef’s kiss.* And might I mention the music? It’s amazing how well the compositions match up with each scene, and all of the songs I immediately add to my playlist after I finish an episode.
- The Creator
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Phoebe Waller-Bridge is the show’s writer/showrunner/producer/driving force of the operation. Her voice shines throughout the show, making it feel like something truly special. Usually, spy thrillers have been a male-dominated genre, but Killing Eve is a show that represents the change we have been seeing in the industry. It’s a fresh take on the style, without all the clichés of older spy stories. Might I also add the creator’s quirky sense of humor is often evident, where in one moment you can be panicking, and in the next, you’re cracking up over the razor-sharp writing.
So, are you dying to watch Killing Eve? The first two seasons are currently streaming on Hulu, and season three just started airing this past week on BBC America. I hope you will end up giving this show a try, believe me, you won’t regret investing your time in such a production.