Kaos Review: Jeff Goldblum Shines in a Fun Greek Gods Drama Masterpiece

Kaos, the new series by Charlie Covell, the creator of Channel 4’s The End of the F**king World, is meticulously crafted. It’s a reimagining of Greek mythology that’s both subtle and intricate, presenting a world where pantheism and Zeus still hold sway. The eight episodes are jam-packed with action, humor, and grace notes, all while maintaining a light and effortless tone. Covell’s script weaves through multiple storylines, questioning what it means to be human, to hold power, and to possess free will.

The tone of Kaos is best exemplified by Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of Zeus. Clad in a white suit and exuding confidence, Zeus enjoys his opulent palace on Mount Olympus until a monument in his honor is defaced by Trojans. He believes a newly formed wrinkle signals the beginning of a prophecy heralding his downfall. His resulting paranoia and insecurities lead him to plot vengeance against humanity. His wife, Hera, portrayed majestically by Janet McTeer, encourages him to maintain his dignity while dealing out punishments.

Prometheus, played by Stephen Dillane, serves as the unseen narrator. Once a friend of Zeus, he is now a prisoner bound to a rock, eternally having his liver pecked out by an eagle. Prometheus aims to hasten the prophecy’s fulfillment with the help of unwitting humans and underworld residents. The underworld is managed by David Thewlis as Hades, adding another layer to the show’s complex tone.

Aurora Perrineau’s character, Eurydice, known as Riddy, plans to break up with her rock star boyfriend, Orpheus, played by Killian Scott, just before dying in a car accident. She finds herself on a ferry crossing the Styx. Orpheus, aided by Dionysus (Nabhaan Rizwan), attempts to retrieve her from the underworld, leading to some heart-wrenching scenes. Meanwhile, Riddy forms a connection with Caneus (Misia Butler) and uncovers disturbing aspects of the underworld.

The series also explores various other narrative threads. Ariadne (Leila Farzad) uncovers her father Minos’s treachery, while Daedalus (Mat Fraser) tends to a monstrous creature in a labyrinth beneath their palace. Billie Piper portrays Cassandra, tormented by the curse of never being believed. Debi Mazar’s Medusa makes her appearance, thrilling underworld newcomers by revealing a snake from her headdress.

Kaos deftly intertwines love stories and treacheries, balancing comedy and tragedy. Each twist is unpredictable, yet consistently profound and entertaining. The series is a triumph, thanks to Charlie Covell’s exceptional storytelling and the vibrant cast bringing these timeless myths to life.

Kaos is available on Netflix.

Source: Netflix