In 2015 a struggling comedian named Richard Gadd was working at a bar in London when he began receiving visits from his soon to be stalker. He produced this Netflix series based on his personal experiences. Gadd plays himself as “Donny Dunn” alongside Jessica Gunning who plays “Martha,” his mentally unwell stalker. This seven episode mini-series not only goes into the actual events of his stalking, but also explains how it happened and what role he played in fueling Martha’s obsession with him.
If you are tired of the same basic archetypes everytime you start a new show, then “Baby Reindeer” is sure to be your next obsession. The show features incredibly complex characters that are based on a true story told by an exceptionally observant individual. Gadd’s habit of exposing the inner workings of people’s minds would almost be considered rude if he didn’t extend that same treatment to his own actions. It takes a lot of courage to be this honest about the role you played in the traumatic events of your life, but Gadd bravely reveals the inner workings of his mind and tells the whole story in agonizing detail. This detailed story-telling makes the show intensely captivating from minute one.
“Baby Reindeer” feels like when your friend goes through a long overdue breakup and is suddenly able to recount all of the bad things about their relationship with a clear head. Gadd admits, both through his actions in the show and through voice over, that his behavior at this time in his life is something he is ashamed of to this day and that he was at fault almost as much as the real life Martha was. He purges his thoughts and feelings at a nauseating pace that keeps the watcher glued to the screen, itching for more of this confession.
The casting in this show is perfect. It makes sense that Gadd’s performance would be believable as he experienced these events first hand, but the person who impressed me most was Jessica Gunning. Her portrayal of Martha is what makes the whole plot work. A tremendous amount of talent is required in order to play a character that can be pitiful in one scene and threatening in the next. She has the perfect balance of natural charisma and complete unawareness to social situations. Without Gunning’s impressive performance, it would be impossible for Gadd to tell his story in such an effective manner.
The tension in this show is unending. Everytime you start to feel comfortable, Gadd flips the scene on its head and you suddenly feel your heart racing. I found myself looking over my shoulder quite a few times when watching simply because I was filled with such unease.
I would highly recommend this series; however, before you watch, take stock of your current mental health and see if you can handle honest portrayal of drug abuse, sexual/physical assault and stalking.
