Get ready for a wild ride with Netflix's 'How to Get to Heaven from Belfast'! This show promises a unique blend of comedy and mystery, but be warned, it's a bumpy journey.
A Tale of Two Genres
Lisa McGee, the talented creator behind 'Derry Girls', has attempted to merge her love for comedy and mystery. She draws inspiration from classics like 'Scooby-Doo' and 'Columbo', but the result is a bit of a mess. It's like trying to mix two incompatible genres, resulting in a show that's neither fish nor fowl.
The Irish Conundrum
For Irish viewers, there's an added layer of confusion. McGee, a Derry native now living in Belfast, sets much of the action in the Republic, yet her portrayal feels like it's based on outdated stereotypes. It's as if she's relying on old comedy sketches for her knowledge of the 26 counties. When the show ventures across the Border, it turns into a bizarre land of exaggerated Irishness, which might entertain British audiences, but may leave Irish viewers cringing.
Father Ted Meets Inspector Morse?
The show tries to strike a balance between the hilarious and the serious, but it often feels like it's trying too hard. McGee's talent for witty dialogue is undeniable, but it clashes with a storyline that tackles heavy topics like intergenerational abuse and the erasure of Irish female suffering.
A Whodunit with Potential
Despite its flaws, 'How to Get to Heaven from Belfast' has the makings of a solid mystery. The story revolves around three former convent school friends who reunite after the mysterious death of their fourth friend, a troubled new student from Galway. The show hints at a dark incident that bound them together, but the focus on light-hearted banter undermines the seriousness of the plot.
Cartoonish Characters, Confusing Tone
The characters fluctuate between cartoonish and serious, which can be jarring. Take Robyn, played by Sinéad Keenan, who goes from being the most level-headed of the trio to a comic book stereotype when she jumps to conclusions about her husband's fidelity. The show struggles to maintain a consistent tone, treating some characters as comic relief one moment and serious protagonists the next.
When Things Go South
The show's portrayal of Ireland becomes even more exaggerated when it ventures into Dublin. It's a caricature that might appeal to misty-eyed Irish Americans, but it feels forced and unrealistic.
A Messed-Up Cousin?
McGee is known for her sharp one-liners, and her portrayal of adult friendship is well-observed. However, the denouement falls flat, and the show never quite figures out how to blend its tones effectively. It's as if it's trying to be a Gaeltacht version of 'Stranger Things', but it never quite gets there.
Mastery of Mystery?
The paradox is that McGee has proven her mastery of the mystery genre with 'The Deceived', a fun take on Daphne du Maurier's 'Rebecca'. So why does her Netflix debut feel like a jumble?
Final Thoughts
'How to Get to Heaven from Belfast' is an ambitious attempt at a unique show, but it falls short. It's a fun watch as long as you don't expect a coherent plot or consistent character development. Despite the talented cast and crew, it's a one-way trip to binge-watch purgatory.
So, what do you think? Is it worth giving this show a chance, or should it be left on the Netflix shelf? Let's discuss in the comments!
