The end of the f***ing world

When I created this blog back in January 2018, I had originally planned to write this review as my first for the film/series section. However, I never got around to it, and it lingered in the back of my mind. Though it may be incredibly late, with Season 2 released today, I felt compelled to rewatch the first season.

This show is terrific. Of course, nothing beats the first time watching it, but time has passed, and I've quite forgotten some of the show's best moments.

I find that it is one of the most brutally realistic, or at least honest, when it comes to its writing. James, right from the start, is this intriguing character, self-diagnosed as a psychopath.

And Alyssa is a strong character on her own. She's quirky, intelligent, and angry. Really angry. I've been where they are, which is probably why I enjoyed the show's rawness, gore and strong language.

The first and the last episodes both made me cry when I first saw them. I connected with Alyssa in more ways than one. I just wish I was more like her—less people-pleasing and more unabashedly rude, free-spirited, and outspoken. Truth be told, she and I are very similar. Our pain is quite similar, too. But I tend to be kinder with my words, even when I'm constantly cursing in my head (or out loud sometimes).

James and Alyssa had such a wonderful dynamic, that I ached to have someone like that for me too. A partner-in-crime, a safe haven, a protector. James turned out to be quite different from the person he thinks he is in his mind. I think what they have for each other is just so pure, so honest.

Let's talk about the soundtrack and cinematography, tightly woven into the whole atmosphere. Every song is masterfully chosen. And even though the entire season is only around 2 and a half hours, it feels like it goes on forever.

Sometimes, I'd like to run away like James and Alyssa, too. Maybe not murder someone, but have fun and be myself in the most genuine way possible.

The show is a wild ride. It's dark, violent, and showcases some of the most heinous acts known to man (not talking about the murder). But it's all very real.

Kudos to the writers of the comics and the show. I loved it. And I will write another one for the 2nd season soon.

~Dawn