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“The Nevers” delivers a fierce, feminist fantasy

HBO strays from the serious and incorporates whimsical storytelling.
“The Nevers” delivers a fierce, feminist fantasy
Photo courtesy of Courtesy of IMDb

The Nevers” brings audiences into Victorian London, a place of cobblestone streets, carriages and a surge of the supernatural. Both political and entertaining, the new series from HBO emulates the charm and history of “Bridgerton,” while adding a number of thrilling and even violent scenes, similar to “Supernatural.” The pilot episode of the season promises a great deal of intrigue, a cast of strong female leads and an original, shocking storyline. 

FEMALE-FOCUSED FANTASY 

From beginning to end, one of the most notable elements of “The Nevers” is the emphasis on women within the series. In this reimagined London, women are seen as heroic—sources of hope and mysterious power, while men are killers, looking to secure the little control they still possess. 

While subtle in some moments and clearly presenting a feminist agenda within the series, writers and producers introduce a refreshing take on fantasy, using women to support a storyline, rather than simply sexualizing them, as HBO has been notorious for doing. A positive step forward for the streaming service and for the fantasy genre, “The Nevers” allows for more progressive, feminist storytelling on the small screen. 

ACTION AND MYSTERY OVER ROMANCE 

With a female-centered fantasy, one might assume that the plot centers around romance, yet “The Nevers” pushes back against stereotypes and puts their female characters at the front of the action. Whether protecting the next generation of those with supernatural abilities, also known as the “touched,” or engaging in glass-shattering, neck-breaking violence, these women bring an edge and a forcefulness to the typical Victorian woman. 

SERIOUS SUBJECTS AND SPIRITUALITY 

While the series focuses on adventure and the paranormal in a fast-paced, imaginative fashion, it also speaks to serious topics. From the opening scenes of the series, the show quickly displays two parents concerned that their child is possessed by a demon. Topics such as possession and the implications of spirituality within this context are on full display. 

Not only does the show give airtime to religion and spirituality, it also delves into the tension between men and women. Without restraint, “The Nevers” critiques the patriarchy and the ever-present struggle for women to partake in government and equality with men. With extreme circumstances, the series goes to make the men of the show hungry for power and unrelenting in their greed and lack of respect for women—any sign of strength a threat to their established system of oppression. 

Otherworldly encounters aside, “The Nevers” makes certain to emphasize worldbuilding and inventive creations over lengthy dialogue and backstory, making for an exciting first installment that never feels dull and sets up the series for an intriguing first season. 

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About the Contributor
Joshua Flores
Joshua Flores, Staff Writer
Joshua Flores is currently a Senior English major with a concentration in writing. In his time away from schoolwork, he can be found binge-watching Bob’s Burgers, listening to Kacey Musgraves on repeat or shamelessly enjoying reality television. I’ve always been a writer at heart. From writing and illustrating my own comics in first grade to developing and writing poetry, short stories, and young adult fiction in high school and college, this native Californian has never wanted to be anything else other than a writer. California has always been home for me. Being surrounded by Hollywood and an assortment of media outlets and entertainment only furthered my passion for the arts. Whether it be spending the weekend with good friends at my local theatre, binge watching the next big Netflix series, or getting lost in fantastical worlds in literature, entertainment is not only a source of passion, but one of joy as well. Being an English major at Biola has confirmed how passionate I am about not only media, but specifically the written word. Whether it be journalism or creative writing, writing is something God has used to help me express my creativity, build into others, and use to further the kingdom. Whatever may come in the future, I know being a writer is something I cannot wait to pursue.
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