An Objective Review of the Netflix Series 1899: A Failed Promise of Mystery and Suspense

The Netflix series 1899 set high expectations with its intriguing premise and stunning visuals. However, the plot quickly spirals into disappointment, with a forced sexual motif and a lack of compelling storytelling. This review aims to provide an honest, detailed analysis of the show, incorporating both positive and negative aspects.

Positive Aspects

The striking visual aesthetics and cinematography of 1899 are undoubtedly its strongest points. The show's intricate set designs and haunting atmosphere contribute to a sense of immersion. The scenes, particularly the underwater sequences and the vast oceanic landscapes, are breathtaking and add depth to the narrative. The show's attention to detail in costume and direction also merits praise.

The imagery and scenarios in the series are awe-inspiring, as evidenced by the eerie and captivating environments in which the characters find themselves. The show features a rich and diverse cast, which adds layers to the world it portrays. The use of specific allegories, such as The Plato's Allegory and the binary code references, showcases the showrunners' intellectual depth and creativity.

Negative Aspects

Despite its promising start, 1899 falls short in several areas. Critics have highlighted the show's indulgence in sexual themes, which are not particularly well-constructed or relevant to the overall narrative. Bright and bold statements from characters, such as Ling Yi, are used excessively, detracting from the show's suspense and mystery. The unwieldy and sometimes confusing plot exacerbates the lack of coherent direction and feels more like a collection of disjointed episodes.

Plot and Storytelling Issues

The show's exploration of themes such as feminism, women's rights, and LGBT rights relies too heavily on clichés, making these elements seem forced and out of place. The sexual tension and romantic plotlines, like those between characters Angel and Ramiro, are both underdeveloped and gratuitous. They detract from the overall narrative and leave the viewer feeling unsatisfied.

The characters themselves are not well-developed, and their backstories often feel irrelevant or barely explored. This lack of depth leaves the viewer disconnected from the characters and unable to emotionally invest in their journeys. The forced inclusion of allegorical references, such as The Plato's Allegory, feels more like an attempt to appear intellectual rather than a genuine enhancement of the story.

Technical and Creative Flaws

While the visual elements are commendable, the show's reliance on these visuals becomes a crutch when it fails to deliver a compelling narrative. The inclusion of binary codes and other mysterious symbols adds to the sense of a convoluted plot, but without a clear payoff, they serve only to confuse and frustrate the audience. The show's extensive use of morse code and other obscure symbols falls flat without proper context or explanation.

Conclusion

Ultimately, 1899 fails to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative. While it has the potential to be a groundbreaking cyberpunk thriller, it instead devolves into a muddled and clichéd blend of themes and tropes. The cancellation of the second season appears to have been a wise decision, as the show's poorly executed suspense and failed attempt at depth make it difficult to recommend to viewers who value well-crafted and suspenseful storytelling.