Netflix’s “Ratched” is wicked and captivating

Netflix’s “Ratched” is wicked and captivating

Set in 1947, the Netflix thriller series Ratched previews a corrupt “nurse” Mildred Ratched, played by Sarah Paulson, working in a psychiatric ward with a motive to retrieve her cold-blooded killer brother, Edmund Tolleson. Based on Ken Kesey’s novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, it dives into the sadistic mentality of the mind. Tolleson, played by Finn Wittrock, murdered several priests in order to avenge his late mother who was assaulted by one of them. Ending up in care at the Lucia State Hospital in California, Ratched followed her brother to reconnect.

The story between these two siblings is quite frightening. Both having deep and dark backgrounds in the foster care system, has clearly impacted their mental and emotional wellbeing. The diabolic performance by Paulson draws the viewer in and consumes them with hatred for the parents that have abused her throughout her childhood. Paulson completely embodies the role of Nurse Ratched and takes it to a new level.

The plot keeps the viewer engaged, but it can be messy. It has almost too many twists and turns that it can be confusing and difficult to follow. With the tension and mystery, it is a great series for the fans of horror. The series does have a vibrant setting which is ironic with its dark concept. Nonetheless, it is alluring and beautiful.

No episode is dull and viewers are wanting more. They are in luck; a new season is premiering at the end of 2021 at the earliest. The manipulative and evolving characters allow the show to flourish. The cast picked by the director Milos Forman, did an outstanding job in allowing the characters to shine in their own ways. From the colorful scenery to the gruesome plot, Ratched is raw, wayward, and enchanting.

This article first appeared in Devil’s Advocate.