“Fool Me Once” Season 1 presents itself as a promising adaptation of Harlan Coben’s novel, delivering a classic whodunit narrative with a straightforward approach. The series introduces viewers to Maya Stern, a widowed military officer who finds herself thrust into a web of mystery following the tragic murders of her husband and sister.
From the outset, the show maintains a brisk pace, plunging viewers into Maya’s world of suspicion and intrigue. Michelle Keegan embodies Maya with grace and determination, effectively portraying her as a woman haunted by grief yet determined to uncover the truth behind the murders. Opposite her, Joanna Lumley commands the screen as the imposing mother-in-law, Judith Burkett, adding depth to the familial dynamics at play.
However, despite the strong performances, “Fool Me Once” struggles to sustain its suspense over the course of its runtime. The plot unfolds in a predictable manner, with many of the twists and turns feeling telegraphed well in advance. This detracts from the overall impact of the mystery, leaving viewers waiting for the inevitable reveal.
One of the show’s major pitfalls lies in its insistence on stretching the narrative thin, filling episodes with unnecessary subplots and filler scenes. While these diversions may offer glimpses into the lives of supporting characters, they ultimately detract from the central mystery, diluting its impact.
Despite its shortcomings, “Fool Me Once” manages to deliver a satisfying resolution to its murder mystery by the season’s end. Viewers who enjoy a classic whodunit tale may find enough intrigue to keep them engaged, though those seeking a more nuanced or surprising narrative may come away disappointed.
In conclusion, “Fool Me Once” Season 1 offers a decent entry into the realm of murder mysteries, buoyed by strong performances and a solid central premise. However, its lack of narrative depth and predictability prevent it from reaching the heights of its potential, ultimately leaving it feeling like a missed opportunity to deliver a truly gripping thriller.
| Genre | Thriller |
|---|---|
| Based on | Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben |
| Written by | Danny Brocklehurst Charlotte Coben Yemi Oyefuwa Nina Metivier Tom Farrelly |
| Directed by | David Moore Nimer Rashed |
| Starring | Michelle Keegan Dino Fetscher Richard Armitage Joanna Lumley Adeel Akhtar Emmett J. Scanlan Marcus Garvey Dänya Griver Natalie Anderson Daniel Burt Adelle Leonce Joe Armstrong |
| Theme music composer | David Buckley Luke Richards |
| Country of origin | United Kingdom |
| Original language | English |
| No. of episodes | 8 |
