Synopsis
Based on Caroline Kepnes’ best-selling novel, “YOU.”
“Starring Penn Badgley, “YOU” is a 21st century love story that asks, “What would you do for love?” When a brilliant bookstore manager crosses paths with an aspiring writer, his answer becomes clear: anything. Using the internet and social media as his tools to gather the most intimate of details and get close to her, a charming and awkward crush quickly becomes obsession as he quietly and strategically removes every obstacle – and person – in his way.” – Lifetime
Review
“It’s cool how you get in the monster’s POV. You understand why he does stuff.” – Paco, YOU
Gritty. Intense. Disturbing. Manic. Twisted. Creepy. Dark. Thrilling. Sharp. Addicting. All words to describe Lifetime’s new series YOU. For some reason, I originally thought it was just going to be another cheesy Lifetime movie – I’m surprised it’s a television show and not an R-rated movie. That’s how crazy it is –, but I’m glad it turned out to be a 10-episode season. Nearly every episode left me on the edge of my seat wanting more. Typically, Lifetime movies are annoyingly predictable (at least in my opinion), but surprisingly, that wasn’t the case for YOU. I was thoroughly entertained each Sunday night.
However, as addicted – for lack of a better word – as I was, there is one problem I had with the overall plot of the story. Joe is an obsessive, psychopath stalker. It’s clear as day in every single episode from the very beginning. Not to be that person, but his behavior almost felt glamorized at some points. Like the audience should feel sorry for him because of his past. Like women should find his “protectiveness” and obsessiveness endearing because he “loves” Beck so much. I’m sorry, but no. I hope women don’t walk away from watching this show believing that Joe and all his disturbing characteristics are hot. I’ve already seen some viewer comments thinking that, and that’s troubling. Beck was naïve and oblivious to his behavior, even though she’s an incredibly smart young woman. In the end *spoiler alert*, she pays the ultimate consequence and Joe wins with really no remorse – because that’s how psychos operate.
I know Lifetime is kind of known for these kinds of stalker/murderous plots, but YOU took it to a whole new level. I also know the show is based off a best-selling book, which I haven’t read. And I’m not saying not to watch the show or read the book. I just hope that the message that’s taken away from either is that that behavior is not okay by any means. Because let’s be honest, this isn’t some insanely unrealistic storyline here. There are actual crazy people out there in the world with these kinds of behaviors.
That being said, I wouldn’t let my little spiel deter you from watching the show. It’s really good. Penn Badgley’s portrayal of psycho Joe is, at times, eerily excellent. Elizabeth Lail’s depiction of the smart, yet naïve and oblivious Beck is on point. I found her struggles as a 20-something writer with other issues to be relatable. Shay Mitchell’s manipulative, rich – and equally obsessive as Joe – Peach is annoying in a hate to love her kind of way. The plot is fast-paced and enticing (although, not perfect). And just when you think nothing more could be done with the story; the finale leaves you wondering what will happen in season 2.
Overall grade: B
GIF credit: transfemmefatale
