Netflix exhausted us with its recent catalogs of subpar shows that only seem to be canceled after the first season. Yet, “Wednesday” is not one of them. Released on November 23, “Wednesday” takes the audience through an addictive eight episode long murder mystery through a unique perspective of Wednesday Addams, a sociopath turned sleuth who investigates Nevermore Academy’s uncanny past with her newfound psychic abilities. 

Written by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, and directed by Tim Burton, “Wednesday” pleasantly renews “The Addams Family” series. Clocking in over 341 million hours watched in its first week, “Wednesday” triumphs against even season four of Netflix’s blockbuster “Stranger Things,” which logged in only 335 million hours. 

The series stars Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, Christina Ricci—yes, the same Ricci who played Wednesday in the 1991 “The Addams Family”—as botany teacher Marilyn Thornhill, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Wednesday’s mother Morticia Addams, Luis Guzmán as her father Gomez Addams, Isaac Ordonez as her brother Pugsley Addams, and Gwendoline Christie as Principal Larissa Weems.  

After a shocking, yet satisfying, trademark act of calculated violence expels her from school, Wednesday’s parents Gomez and Morticia Addams enroll her at Nevermore Academy in Jericho, Vermont, a school for supernatural outcasts once attended by her parents. 

Wednesday herself is stunning. Her cold, emotionless personality ironically makes her the most interesting character in “Wednesday,” likely because of her unconventional and controversial nature. Her humorous, deadpan affronts and threats dotted throughout the show perfectly display her emotionlessly snarky, beyond bold, and extremely comedic persona. Not to mention, she can fight multiple people, fence a saber, sharpshoot a bow, and mesmerizingly play the cello. 

The cinematography, choreography, and lighting are stunning, making for an immersive experience. The VFX and CGI, however, are ludicrous. It’s honestly so bad it’s funny, but in a good way. While this blunder would degrade most shows, it actually adds to the show’s humor. However, the obvious must be stated: Jenna Ortega absolutely carries the show. Her dedication to Wednesday combined with her excellent acting highlights her from the rest of the characters, who—to be honest—are quite cliche and lacking. Without her, the show would just be another formulaic, Harry Potter-esque drama. 

Overall, “Wednesday” is a must watch for its interesting storyline and character arcs, if not for Wednesday herself, who easily marks herself as one of the best protagonists in television history. In an age plagued with creative fatigue and lackluster television, “Wednesday” will definitely satisfy your Wednesday binge.