Penny Dreadful: City of Angels
Penny Dreadful: City of Angels

TV Show spotlight

Penny Dreadful: City of Angels

2020
TV Show
Canceled
1 Season
English

Rooted in the conflict between characters connected to the deity Santa Muerte and others allied with the Devil, this saga explores an exciting mix of the supernatural and the combustible reality of 1938 Los Angeles, a time and place deeply infused with Mexican-American folklore and social tension.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes59%
Metacritic54/100
Google Users78%
Director: John LoganGenres: Horror, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery

Plot Summary

Set in 1938 Los Angeles, the series delves into the conflict between a Mexican-American family and the supernatural forces that threaten them. Detective Tiago Vega finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation that quickly escalates into a battle against demons and dark magic. The story explores themes of racism, social justice, and the human capacity for both good and evil.

Critical Reception

Penny Dreadful: City of Angels received a mixed reception from critics and audiences. While praised for its ambition, stunning visuals, and strong performances, particularly from Natalie Dormer and Daniel Zovatto, many found it lacked the coherence and emotional depth of its predecessor, the original Penny Dreadful. Some critics also felt the complex narrative became convoluted and the social commentary, while relevant, was heavy-handed at times.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its striking visual style and compelling performances.

  • Criticized for a convoluted plot that fails to match the original's impact.

  • Thematic explorations of social issues were noted but sometimes felt heavy-handed.

Google audience: Audience reviews were generally positive, with many appreciating the series' dark atmosphere, intricate world-building, and the dual performance by Natalie Dormer. However, some viewers found the plot difficult to follow and felt it didn't live up to the legacy of the original 'Penny Dreadful'.

Fun Fact

The series intentionally mirrors the biblical story of the Fall of Lucifer, with Magda (played by Natalie Dormer) representing the serpent, and the Pemon (played by Daniel Zovatto) embodying a tortured, yet ultimately divine, figure.

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