As a long-time gamer and avid fan of mystery stories, I was eagerly anticipating Apple TV+’s new series “Lady in the Lake.” With Natalie Portman attached as an executive producer and star, along with the acclaimed Alma Har’el at the helm, my expectations were high. The show’s promising ensemble cast and intriguing premise based on Laura Lippman’s novel further fueled my excitement.
In the new Apple TV+ series “Lady in the Lake,” based on Laura Lippman’s novel, an abundance of talent is evident. Starring and executive produced by Natalie Portman, the cast includes Moses Ingram formerly of “Star Wars,” Y’lan Noel, Wood Harris, and others. Furthermore, the show represents a significant advancement for writer-director Alma Har’el (“Honey Boy”), who both created the series and helmed every episode. With such an impressive lineup, it’s hard not to be intrigued.
After delving into this seven-episode crime drama about the unexpected connection between two distinct women, the thrill doesn’t exactly dissipate, but the structure of the series necessitates a change in perspective. Although it’s inspired by a renowned crime novelist and primarily focuses on the enigma surrounding the title character’s destiny, “Lady in the Lake” aspires to be more than just a mystery. It’s a blend of genres: a mystery, a period drama, an analysis of class, sex, and race in mid-20th century America, and a dreamlike quest for authenticity.
As a longtime fan of thought-provoking television shows, I’ve seen my fair share of productions that aim to tackle multiple themes and narratives all at once. However, some shows, like this one, seem to struggle with finding a clear direction amidst the complexity.
Two women, one city
Portman portrays Maddie Morganstern Schwartz, a Jewish homemaker residing in an affluent area of 1960s Baltimore, respected as a community figure. In contrast, Ingram embodies Cleo Johnson, a working mother of two from one of the city’s less privileged neighborhoods, striving to provide for her family and ensure a brighter future for her children. While Maddie is a wife, mother, and philanthropist, Cleo assumes various roles such as bartender, department store window model, bookkeeper, and more to make ends meet. Despite their contrasting circumstances, they share a common determination to pursue their goals in a society that seeks to keep them submissive.
Maddie’s decision to leave her husband and pursue journalism is sparked by a tragic event in her community. Unknown to Maddie, this incident is only the beginning of a complex network of hidden truths, criminal activities, and fatalities that will eventually draw her into the enigma surrounding Cleo’s disappearance on a winter night, leaving her submerged in the city’s “lady in the lake” mystery.
Instead of primarily focusing on Maddie’s quest for uncovering the truth about Cleo as portrayed in the show trailers and Lippman’s novel, “Lady in the Lake” starts by presenting Maddie’s resolution to transform her own life. Simultaneously, it offers a glimpse into the weeks preceding Cleo’s transformation into “the lady in the lake.” We get to see her grappling with motherhood and reluctantly becoming involved in Baltimore’s gambling world. This perspective allows us to understand Maddie’s motivations, desires, and values, making her ultimate fate even more poignant. For Har’el and her writing team, this shift aims to elevate the character development but yields somewhat varied outcomes.
An ambitious, overstuffed effort
At the heart of it all are Portman and Ingram’s compelling dual performances, making this production truly exceptional. Har’el skillfully captures their lives through the lens, intertwining their stories with clever cuts that make it seem as if they’re interacting in the same moment, even when physically apart. A striking balance exists between their actions, never appearing as mere imitations or synchronized moves. Each actor brings unique nuances, tones, and emotions to the role, resulting in a captivating display of two-person acting at its finest.
The series not only showcases Har’el’s unique filmmaking skills but is also a perfect fit for Lippman’s story, inspired by real-life events in 1960s Baltimore. Har’el masterfully combines fact and fiction. Her camera captures the intricate period details of the production design – from brightly lit storefronts to modest Christmas decorations on porches. Har’el’s visuals are deeply rooted in emotional depth and the power of memory. A simple image, like a photograph, can evoke vivid recollections from both past and present. An apparently insignificant incident in Episode 1 might echo a more profound event in Episode 5. Overall, this series is impressively put together with a striking visual language.
Regrettably, some plot mysteries remain prominent despite being set against the backdrop of Maddie and Cleo’s everyday lives. The first portion of the show is often more reminiscent of a historical character study with a hint of mystery, rather than the other way around. Consequently, when the suspenseful elements of the story emerge, they may come across as unexpected and not fully developed. This inconsistency in tone contributes to “Lady in the Lake” feeling disjointed at times, yet excessively focused on certain aspects in others.
From a devoted fan’s perspective, “Lady in the Lake” is an engaging and captivating series that I can’t help but be drawn into week after week. Two exceptionally talented actresses grace our screens with their powerful performances, making each episode a must-watch experience. Although it may not yet reach the heights of becoming Apple TV+’s next groundbreaking sensation, if you are a fan of period dramas and intriguing crime stories, this series is definitely worth your time and attention.
“Lady in the Lake” premieres July 19 on Apple TV+.
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2024-07-19 04:30