‘The Grimm Variations’ Netflix Series Review - Darker Versions of Classic Fairy-tales

Since our earliest days, we've been immersed in the timeless narratives of classic fairy tales like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. These stories often centered around a protagonist, typically a kind-hearted girl, who navigated through a series of challenges and adversities, only to find their happy ending in the arms of Prince Charming or through defeating the big bad wolf. But what if we flipped the script? What if these protagonists weren't damsels in distress waiting to be rescued?

Enter "The Grim Variations." This captivating miniseries takes the beloved tales we know so well and injects them with a bold twist. Gone are the days of Cinderella being mistreated by her step-family; instead, she takes charge of her own destiny quite cruelly. Lo and behold! The tables have now turned and it’s the stepmother and sisters turn to face the blunt. And forget about the innocent Little Red Riding Hood falling victim to the cunning wolf—now she's the one with teeth, ready to confront any threat that crosses her path. And wait, don’t forget about the elf and the shoemaker for if this elf withdraws her help, a person can reach his ruins.

In this reimagined landscape, familiar characters are reshaped into completely opposite personalities we once knew. For example, a once-kind Cinderella is actually a sweet villain. At one point you do end up hating the characters you once upon a time loved.

This series definitely challenges traditional gender roles and expectations. "The Grim Variations" invites viewers to reconsider the narratives they thought they knew, offering a fresh perspective on age-old stories while delivering all the enchantment and intrigue that made them classics in the first place. By reimagining these classic stories through a lens of complexity and nuance, "The Grim Variations" offers a thought-provoking exploration of timeless themes such as power, identity, and the nature of good and evil.

One of the most enticing aspects of "The Grim Variations" lies in its unpredictability. With each twist and turn in the plot, viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, unable to anticipate what will happen next. It's this element of surprise that captivates audiences and keeps them hooked on the show. While the stories may originate from childhood tales, "The Grim Variations" is far from child's play. Its themes and narrative complexities are crafted with a mature audience in mind, delving into deeper, darker territories than the original fairy tales ever dared to tread.

This isn't your typical happily-ever-after fare; instead, it's a journey into the shadows, where familiar characters face new challenges and moral dilemmas that resonate with adult viewers. The miniseries has only six episodes and is very fast-paced. And of course with a twisted plot, one can seldom get bored. It's a journey into the unknown that promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone brave enough to embark upon it. So, buckle up for a journey into the unknown, where fairy tales are rewritten and villains are reborn.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times