BBC's new adaptation of Lord of the Flies has made the classic novel more unsettling than ever, but for all the wrong reasons.
The 1950s-set drama follows a group of British schoolboys who crash-land on a desert island after their plane goes down. While the story may seem like a typical castaway tale, where the human spirit triumphs over incredible odds, this adaptation takes a darker turn. The show's writer Jack Thorne has brought the novel to life in a way that is both haunting and thought-provoking.
As an adaptation, Lord of the Flies stands out for its ability to feel contemporary, despite being written over 60 years ago. The mini-series, directed by Bafta-laden film-maker Marc Munden, brings a sense of realism to the story that feels almost oppressive. It's as if the show is unmooring the audience from familiar comforts and throwing them into a world where survival is a daily struggle.
One of the standout features of the show is its portrayal of masculinity. The character of Jack, played by newcomer Lox Pratt, embodies the toxic ideology that has come to define modern masculinity. His desire for power and control leads him down a dark path, one that is both fascinating and terrifying to watch.
The show's use of dialogue is sparse and deliberate, adding to the sense of unease and tension. The cinematography is equally impressive, with long-held shots and close-up portraits of the boys' faces creating an unsettling atmosphere. It's as if the characters are staring directly into our souls, revealing their true nature without apology.
The show's exploration of class analysis is also noteworthy, highlighting the contrast between the privileged few who hold power and those who are left behind. The entrance of a troupe of cap-clad choristers, processing up a white sand beach to the strains of a religious chant, is an extraordinary image that drives home the point.
While Lord of the Flies has been praised for its thought-provoking themes, it's hard not to feel queasy watching it. The show's portrayal of violence and aggression feels all too real, making you wonder how far we've strayed from our values as a society. It's a reminder that, despite our best efforts, some things never change.
In short, Lord of the Flies is a must-watch for fans of horror and drama alike. Jack Thorne's adaptation has brought a new level of depth to this classic novel, making it feel both timely and timeless. Just be prepared for a viewing experience that will leave you unsettled and disturbed.
The 1950s-set drama follows a group of British schoolboys who crash-land on a desert island after their plane goes down. While the story may seem like a typical castaway tale, where the human spirit triumphs over incredible odds, this adaptation takes a darker turn. The show's writer Jack Thorne has brought the novel to life in a way that is both haunting and thought-provoking.
As an adaptation, Lord of the Flies stands out for its ability to feel contemporary, despite being written over 60 years ago. The mini-series, directed by Bafta-laden film-maker Marc Munden, brings a sense of realism to the story that feels almost oppressive. It's as if the show is unmooring the audience from familiar comforts and throwing them into a world where survival is a daily struggle.
One of the standout features of the show is its portrayal of masculinity. The character of Jack, played by newcomer Lox Pratt, embodies the toxic ideology that has come to define modern masculinity. His desire for power and control leads him down a dark path, one that is both fascinating and terrifying to watch.
The show's use of dialogue is sparse and deliberate, adding to the sense of unease and tension. The cinematography is equally impressive, with long-held shots and close-up portraits of the boys' faces creating an unsettling atmosphere. It's as if the characters are staring directly into our souls, revealing their true nature without apology.
The show's exploration of class analysis is also noteworthy, highlighting the contrast between the privileged few who hold power and those who are left behind. The entrance of a troupe of cap-clad choristers, processing up a white sand beach to the strains of a religious chant, is an extraordinary image that drives home the point.
While Lord of the Flies has been praised for its thought-provoking themes, it's hard not to feel queasy watching it. The show's portrayal of violence and aggression feels all too real, making you wonder how far we've strayed from our values as a society. It's a reminder that, despite our best efforts, some things never change.
In short, Lord of the Flies is a must-watch for fans of horror and drama alike. Jack Thorne's adaptation has brought a new level of depth to this classic novel, making it feel both timely and timeless. Just be prepared for a viewing experience that will leave you unsettled and disturbed.