I approach Paramount+’s new series, “Fatal Attraction,” with a discerning eye. Based on the iconic 1987 film, the series sets out to reimagine the story of a tumultuous affair and its catastrophic consequences. While the first two episodes may leave viewers wanting, the series finds its stride in a captivating third episode, delivering an enjoyable and thought-provoking narrative.
The series opens in the present day, with Dan Gallagher (Joshua Jackson) seeking parole for the murder of his former lover, Alexandra Forrest (Lizzy Caplan). This intriguing setup immediately captivates the audience, especially as Dan has always maintained his innocence. However, the story quickly transports us back to 2008, where we meet a seemingly perfect Dan, a district attorney married to Beth (Amanda Peet) and father to a young daughter (Vivien Lyra Blair).
The initial episodes introduce a clean-shaven Dan, whose privileged and entitled attitude begins to unravel his carefully constructed life. Enter Alex, played disarmingly by Lizzy Caplan, an advocate assigned to one of Dan’s cases. Their steamy affair takes a dark turn when Dan attempts to distance himself from Alex’s emotional instability, triggering a dangerous obsession.
While the early episodes suffer from pacing issues, disjointed timeline jumps, and an overabundance of characters to keep track of, the narrative gains momentum in the third episode, titled “The Watchful Heart.” It is here that the series shifts perspective, delving into Alex’s background and motivations. Caplan’s portrayal of Alex transforms her from a one-dimensional character to a multi-faceted woman, elevating the storytelling to new heights.
Throughout the remaining episodes, “Fatal Attraction” allows the audience to explore the lives of the people surrounding Dan, including Beth, his best friend Mike, Beth’s business partner Arthur, and an adult Ellen, Dan’s estranged daughter. This expanded focus offers a more in-depth understanding of the intricate dynamics at play and adds complexity to the overall narrative.
Despite some hiccups along the way, such as convoluted storylines and a slow start, “Fatal Attraction” manages to keep viewers engaged. The series gradually reveals the puzzle pieces leading to Alex’s death and Dan’s subsequent murder conviction, only to shatter expectations in the final hour. The unpredictable twists and lingering questions in the conclusion set the stage for a potentially chaotic second season, leaving room for further exploration.
Unlike its film predecessor, Paramount+’s “Fatal Attraction” transcends the tale of an obsessive woman refusing to let go of her affair with a married man. Instead, it becomes a character study that delves into the impact of the past on the present, the human desire for recognition, and the lengths people will go to avoid being destroyed by others. Each character is flawed, with no clear hero to root for, except perhaps Beth and Ellen, who find themselves caught in the destructive web spun by those around them.
In conclusion, “Fatal Attraction” starts slowly but gradually gains momentum, culminating in a captivating and thought-provoking series. With its intriguing characters, unexpected plot twists, and a standout performance by Lizzy Caplan, the show offers a fresh take on a familiar story. While not without flaws, the series successfully establishes its identity, leaving viewers eager for what future seasons may hold.
“Fatal Attraction” premieres on April 30th on Paramount+, with new episodes released weekly on Sundays until May 28th.
