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Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities - Spoiler free Serise Review
Published: 24th November 2022.
My brief musings about the 8 episodes of Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities.
Greetings everyone,
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of watching Guillermo del Toro's 'Cabinet Curiosities.' As an anthology series, its eight episodes offered varying experiences of quality in the genre, and I thought it would be interesting to share my in-depth review of this series. Don't worry - this will be a spoiler-free analysis!
Starting with 'Lot 36,' the anthology begins on a firm footing. This story centres around a bigoted man who finds himself in a storage locker auction and ends up with more than he was expecting. Much of the series is adorned with Lovecraftian imagery and tales penned by H.P Lovecraft. This inaugural episode presents the viewer with beautiful pacing and a captivating setup, though the abrupt ending leaves you with a lingering sense of disappointment.
'Graveyard Rats,' the follow-up episode, is slightly undermined by its repetitive narrative. The protagonist here is similar to Lot 36, a man mired in debt. He is a graveyard keeper who grave robs for extra cash but finds his nefarious activities interrupted by rats who take the bodies before he can. Intriguingly developed characters beautifully complement the impressive special effects. There is a surprise element that, while unnecessary for the story, creates a delectable twist.
Next up, 'The Autopsy,' offers a slow-burn narrative with a spectacular payoff. The initial setup takes its time but ultimately rewards viewers with an eerie, chilling climax in the last half of the episode.
The fourth episode, 'The Outsider,' was one I found less engaging. It traverses the journey of a socially awkward woman trying to fit in with others. It progressed slowly and concluded predictably, leaving me somewhat disinterested. Next in the lineup, 'Pikmin's Model,' was much more layered and obscure, revolving around an art student troubled by a seasoned artist's work.
'Dreams in the Witch House,' starring Ron Weasley, was a fun, lighter entry about a man attempting to contact his deceased twin sister through the supernatural. 'The Viewing' offered a psychedelic throwback with its story of a wealthy recluse showing a group of mismatched individuals something potentially life-changing. Although visually stunning, it seemed hollow and overly pretentious.
The series concluded with 'The Murmuring,' a chilling episode that manages to deliver both emotional impact and authentic frights. This tale follows a pair of ornithologists studying birds amid personal trauma. The interplay of emotional depth and creepy vibes made it my favourite of all episodes.
Ultimately, 'Cabinet Curiosities' is worth a watch for those who enjoy anthology series. Despite a few low points, the series overall was filled with quality visuals, fascinating concepts, stellar character development, and an impressive display of imagination. If there's one episode I'd advise skipping, it's 'The Outsider.' Nevertheless, it was an entertaining journey overall. Thanks for reading, and until next time!
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of watching Guillermo del Toro's 'Cabinet Curiosities.' As an anthology series, its eight episodes offered varying experiences of quality in the genre, and I thought it would be interesting to share my in-depth review of this series. Don't worry - this will be a spoiler-free analysis!
Starting with 'Lot 36,' the anthology begins on a firm footing. This story centres around a bigoted man who finds himself in a storage locker auction and ends up with more than he was expecting. Much of the series is adorned with Lovecraftian imagery and tales penned by H.P Lovecraft. This inaugural episode presents the viewer with beautiful pacing and a captivating setup, though the abrupt ending leaves you with a lingering sense of disappointment.
'Graveyard Rats,' the follow-up episode, is slightly undermined by its repetitive narrative. The protagonist here is similar to Lot 36, a man mired in debt. He is a graveyard keeper who grave robs for extra cash but finds his nefarious activities interrupted by rats who take the bodies before he can. Intriguingly developed characters beautifully complement the impressive special effects. There is a surprise element that, while unnecessary for the story, creates a delectable twist.
Next up, 'The Autopsy,' offers a slow-burn narrative with a spectacular payoff. The initial setup takes its time but ultimately rewards viewers with an eerie, chilling climax in the last half of the episode.
The fourth episode, 'The Outsider,' was one I found less engaging. It traverses the journey of a socially awkward woman trying to fit in with others. It progressed slowly and concluded predictably, leaving me somewhat disinterested. Next in the lineup, 'Pikmin's Model,' was much more layered and obscure, revolving around an art student troubled by a seasoned artist's work.
'Dreams in the Witch House,' starring Ron Weasley, was a fun, lighter entry about a man attempting to contact his deceased twin sister through the supernatural. 'The Viewing' offered a psychedelic throwback with its story of a wealthy recluse showing a group of mismatched individuals something potentially life-changing. Although visually stunning, it seemed hollow and overly pretentious.
The series concluded with 'The Murmuring,' a chilling episode that manages to deliver both emotional impact and authentic frights. This tale follows a pair of ornithologists studying birds amid personal trauma. The interplay of emotional depth and creepy vibes made it my favourite of all episodes.
Ultimately, 'Cabinet Curiosities' is worth a watch for those who enjoy anthology series. Despite a few low points, the series overall was filled with quality visuals, fascinating concepts, stellar character development, and an impressive display of imagination. If there's one episode I'd advise skipping, it's 'The Outsider.' Nevertheless, it was an entertaining journey overall. Thanks for reading, and until next time!
MARKED
Noir Graphic Novel
Noir Graphic Novel
