Exploring the Hype Around 'Baby Reindeer' on Netflix

On the surface, Netflix's "Baby Reindeer" seems like a gripping episode of "Dateline". It follows an aspiring comedian working as a bartender, who attracts the attention of a strange but seemingly harmless female admirer turned stalker. The cautionary tale woven through the series will make viewers think twice before offering a cup of tea to someone.

However, as the episodes progress, Richard Gadd's thriller miniseries delves deeper into the story. Based on his own real-life experiences with a stalker, the fictional character of Donny Dunn in "Baby Reindeer" also explores themes of trauma and the journey towards healing.

Donny (Gadd) is a survivor of sexual assault and events that greatly impacted his life and dreams. His journey takes a turn when his stalker, Martha (Jessica Gunnning), comes into the picture. The details of his assault are revealed in a raw fourth episode, shedding light on the grooming and manipulation involved in his abuse.

Gadd has shared that the story hits close to home, describing it as "very emotionally true." He disclosed to the Guardian that he experienced severe stalking and abuse.

"He mentioned that we wanted it to be seen as art while also safeguarding the individuals it portrays," he explained.

Since the show premiered, Gadd has been discouraging viewers from playing amateur detectives and trying to uncover the true identities of the characters in his narrative, including his abuser.

Please refrain from guessing the identities of any real-life individuals. That is not the focus of our show. In a recent Instagram story, the creator emphasized that some people in his life are being unfairly implicated due to speculation.

The effectiveness of Gadd's storytelling in "Baby Reindeer" can be seen in viewers' curiosity and engagement with the show, despite his pleas for them to refrain from guessing.

Much should be said, too, of the other main cast’s standout work in the project.

(From left) Richard Gadd as Donny and Jessica Gunning as Martha in "Baby Reindeer."

(From left) Richard Gadd as Donny and Jessica Gunning as Martha in "Baby Reindeer."

Ed Miller/Netflix

Gunning portrays Martha, a troubled woman who claims to be a lawyer but is actually a career creeper and repeat offender. Her ability to seamlessly switch from a pleasant smile to a crazed agitated gaze is both disarming and impressive. She has appeared in television shows like "White Heat" and the British dramedy film "Pride."

Nava Mau, known for her role in HBO Max's "Generation," plays Teri, who enters into a relationship with Donny amidst his unsettling encounters with Martha. Teri, a trans woman and therapist, offers Donny a glimpse of a possible future where he can find healing and happiness, provided he puts in the necessary effort.

Other cast members in the show are Shalom Brune-Franklin, Tom Goodman-Hill, and Danny Kirrane.

In summary, "Baby Reindeer" stands out as a unique addition to the true-crime genre, which has been mostly filled with docuseries and repetitive stories of famous serial killers. However, this show offers a fresh and different perspective.

By the end of the journey, it becomes evident that “Baby Reindeer” was created with a clear purpose, a quality that is often missing in projects that gain popularity simply because they focus on messy (and sometimes horrifying) incidents that are hard to turn away from.

“Baby Reindeer” could be a signal that true crime TV is maturing.

Editor's P/S:

"Baby Reindeer" is a refreshing and thought-provoking addition to the true-crime genre. It delves into the complexities of trauma, stalking, and healing, offering a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of a survivor's journey. Richard Gadd's raw and personal storytelling, based on his own experiences, brings a depth and authenticity to the narrative that is both captivating and unsettling.

The performances of the cast are equally impressive. Jessica Gunning's portrayal of the unhinged and manipulative stalker is both chilling and empathetic, while Nava Mau's character provides a glimmer of hope and resilience amidst the darkness. Gadd's decision to discourage viewers from speculating about the real-life identities of the characters is commendable, as it respects the privacy of those involved and allows the focus to remain on the broader themes of the show. Ultimately, "Baby Reindeer" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the lasting effects of trauma and the complexities of the human psyche. It is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of giving voice to survivors.