Netflix’s newest miniseries, “Baby Reindeer,” has taken the television world by storm. Since its release in April 2024, this dark comedy-drama has garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of obsession and its exploration of trauma.
Created by and starring Richard Gadd, “Baby Reindeer” is a semi-autobiographical story based on Gadd’s one-man stage play. Gadd plays Donny Dunn, a struggling comedian who offers a small act of kindness to a troubled woman named Martha (Jessica Gunning). This seemingly insignificant act spirals into a terrifying situation as Martha becomes fixated on Donny, developing a dangerous obsession.
“Martha was pretty scary at times,” Lambert sophomore Joshua Suh said. “She was really short and stout though, so it was pretty funny whenever she appeared and was following him.”
Martha’s actions stir up a sense of unease; however, the contrast between her physical appearance and the intensity of her obsession adds a layer of dark humor to the story. Many viewers found this to be a brilliant mix of creepy and comical while also adding to an uneasy feeling. Gadd’s portrayal of Donny and Gunning’s embodiment of Martha bring a haunting realism to their characters, allowing viewers to grapple with the unsettling dynamics at play.
However, “Baby Reindeer” is not just about the stalking of Gadd’s character. The drama explores the psychological complexities of trauma as well as Donny’s struggles with self-doubt, isolation and the effects of past abuse.
“The show was very different from what I expected it to be,” Lambert junior Jay Hyun said. “I thought it would only be about the stalker, but it ended up being a lot deeper and more depressing than that. I feel like everybody could relate to Donny to an extent.”
Gadd’s story is a message of how past trauma can continue to haunt us in the present. Donny’s constant suspicion, initially triggered by the stalker, previously stemmed from a deeper-rooted trauma. His isolation and self-doubt are echoes of past abuse, making it difficult for him to trust and connect with others. “Baby Reindeer” compels us to look beyond the surface and recognize that present struggles can be tied with those of past experiences.
All things considered, “Baby Reindeer” is not for the faint of heart. It’s a disturbing exploration of the depths of human obsession and the lasting effects of trauma. However, for those seeking a gripping and thought-provoking miniseries, “Baby Reindeer” is a must-watch.
