I’d heard good things about The Apple TV limited series The Changeling, so I thought I’d give it a go. The first episode had me interested, if not totally sold on what the series was selling.
Adapted from Victor LaValle’s celebrated novel, this series promised a blend of horror, fantasy, and deep emotional exploration. For the most part, it delivered. I binge-watched the series for two days, which was pretty easy since it only consisted of eight episodes. Each episode left me more enchanted and intrigued. However, as the series concluded, the initial brilliance seemed to fade, leaving a mixture of satisfaction and disappointment.
The enthralling beginning
In the first episode we are introduced to Apollo Kagwa, a rare book dealer whose life takes a fantastical turn following the birth of his child. LaKeith Stanfield’s portrayal of Apollo was played with a mesmerising depth that immediately drew me into his world. The series was great at weaving a narrative that felt grounded in reality while flirting with the supernatural. The first six episodes did well in building suspense, developing the characters and telling an interesting story. The show balanced the horror elements with exploring themes such as fatherhood, loss, and the struggles of navigating life’s unpredictable challenges.
The cinematography and score played pivotal roles in establishing the eerie and mystical atmosphere that defines The Changeling. Each frame was meticulously crafted, with haunting and beautiful visuals, complemented by a score that underscored the emotional and suspenseful beats of the narrative.
The gripping middle
The series managed to maintain its momentum with surprising plot twists and character arcs as we reached the halfway mark. The exploration of Apollo’s past and the gradual unveiling of the supernatural elements kept me glued to the screen. The supporting characters, each with their own compelling backstories, added layers to the story, making the world of The Changeling rich and immersive.
I must praise the way Apollo’s identity, fears, and aspirations were explored. This added a layer of complexity that elevated the show from a horror fantasy to a fascinating examination of human nature.
The letdown finale
However, as the series neared its climax, the narrative cohesion began to unravel. The final two episodes felt rushed, with key plot points and character developments that seemed either forced or inadequately explored.
In episode seven, Stormy Weather, Lilian’s (Appollo’s mother) backstory is explored. We finally discover what happened to his dad, but the story is blurred between the past and the present. I wasn’t sure what was real and what was just elaborate storytelling. Adina Porter plays the hell out of her scenes. I’ve loved her since The 100, but most of the plot is unnecessary.
The delicate balance between the supernatural and the emotional, so masterfully maintained in the initial episodes, tilted too far into the realm of fantasy, losing some of the emotional grounding that had made the series so compelling.
The resolution of Apollo’s journey, while aiming for a dramatic and satisfying conclusion, instead felt anticlimactic. In their rush to tie up loose ends, the writers lost sight of the series’ initial charm and depth. They could have added more to the final episode if they had skipped most of the story in episode seven. The final episodes lacked the careful pacing and thoughtful storytelling that had defined The Changeling, leaving me with a sense of unfulfilled potential.
Final thoughts
The Changeling is a series of highs and lows. Its initial episodes are good, with a perfect blend of horror, fantasy, and emotional depth. However, the series falters in its final stretch, failing to deliver a conclusion that matches the brilliance of its beginning. Despite its shortcomings, The Changeling remains a worthwhile watch, offering a captivating journey that, while flawed, is filled with moments of genuine enchantment and intrigue.
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