'The Beast in Me' Is a New Netflix Hit, but Is It Actually Worth Your Time? (Spoiler, Yes)

Netflix's new project, The Beast in Me, boasts an impressive creative pedigree – it was created by the co-creators of The X-Files and the writers of Homeland.

However, the series' greatest asset isn't its intricate detective plot, but Claire Danes' performance, who is one of the most prominent actresses on modern TV and specializes in complex psychological portraits.

Claire Danes' performance elevates this standard psychological thriller into a compelling project.

What Is 'The Beast in Me' About?

The plot revolves around Aggie Wiggs (Claire Danes), a writer who has struggled to cope with her son's tragic death for the past four years. Living alone on Long Island, she is mired in alcohol, procrastination, and insomnia.

Her solitude is interrupted by the arrival of Nile Jarvis (Matthew Rhys), a businessman who was once suspected of murdering his wife. Seeing him as the perfect subject for her new book, Aggie offers him a collaboration.

As they talk, it becomes clear that Aggie is drawn to Jarvis not only as potential literary material, but also as a reflection of her own demons.

'The Beast in Me' Is Worth Watching for Claire Danes' Performance Alone

Claire Danes has the remarkable ability to breathe life into even the most lackluster script, infusing every frame with genuine emotion.

Her portrayal of Aggie is not just another unreliable narrator like in The Girl on the Train – it is a complex, multifaceted character torn by doubts and existential dread.

Danes masterfully conveys a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown's full range of emotions, managing to convey her inner struggle without words.

'The Beast in Me' Isn't a Dramatic Masterpiece, but the Unreliable Narrator Trope Makes It Intriguing

Despite Claire Danes' brilliant performance, The Beast in Me has significant flaws. The writers overdo the parallels between the main characters and repeat the same psychological tropes throughout all eight episodes.

Matthew Rhys is convincing as a charismatic villain, but his character is underdeveloped. Numerous subplots and poorly written supporting characters distract from the main plot.

However, the classic trope of the unreliable narrator – a writer who cannot distinguish between fiction and reality – remains effective, maintaining interest.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'The Beast in Me'?

• The Beast in Me has 82% from critics and 69% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 7.5/10.