It’s dark, engaging, and witty. Originally a novella by Luke Jennings adapted for the screen by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Killing Eve brings us a refreshing twist on the traditional spy-murder drama.
It uses a well-loved plot of cat and mouse, this time between an MI5 agent and a Russian assassin. It subverts all expectations that come to mind with shows of this genre which ultimately increases its richness. Roles that we see commonly occupied by men are played by women. The plot is effortlessly carried by our two main characters, agent Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) and assassin Villanelle (Jodie Comer). Eve has a fascination for female killers and gets too close for comfort.
Their chemistry is electric and falls somewhere between deep hate and possible lovers. Their obsession with one another goes beneath the surface to the point where the story could not function without it. Comer’s portrayal of Villanelle is terrifying, strangely amusing and beautiful all in one. Waller-Bridge writes these characters realistically, showing neither of them in a perfect light.
With the striking visuals and inclusion of many different locations including Paris and Russia, it feels as if you are taken on this unreal adventure that does not even end when the last credits roll. The ups and downs are realistic but invigorating with unexpected twists throughout. There was some discussion whether a season two was necessary but once you experience the final episode, you will agree that we have not seen enough of this story. Killing Eve is absolutely worth the hype it has received.
In only eight episodes, it is overflowing with action, violence and emotion. It is very easy to binge and once you start, you will not want to press pause.
Killing Eve is available now on BBC iplayer
