The Nevers

The Nevers is a science fiction drama television series that premiered on HBO in April 2021. Created by Joss Whedon, the show is set in an alternate Victorian London where a group of individuals, mainly women, with supernatural abilities known as the touched emerge after a strange event. The show explores themes such as gender inequality, power dynamics, and societal norms through the lens of its enigmatic characters.

The Plot
The show is set in 1896 London, where the city is still grappling with the aftermath of a mysterious event that left some people with strange abilities, such as time travel, shape-shifting, and telekinesis. These individuals, called the touched, are mostly women who are shunned by society and face persecution. The story follows Amalia True (Laura Donnelly), a mysterious woman with a dangerous past, and Penance Adair (Ann Skelly), an inventor, as they lead a group of the touched to discover the origin of their powers and protect themselves from those who want to harm them.

The Characters
The show boasts a diverse and dynamic cast of characters, from the leaders of the touched group, Amalia True and Penance Adair, to the cunning villain, Maladie (Amy Manson). Each character has a unique and complex backstory that adds depth to the overall plot. Other notable characters include Hugo Swan (James Norton), a ruthless businessman who wants to exploit the touched for profit, and Augustus Augie Bidlow (Tom Riley), Amalia’s former lover and a detective investigating the strange occurrences in London.

The Controversy
The Nevers garnered controversy even before its release due to allegations of abusive behavior by creator Joss Whedon. This led to him stepping down from his role, and Philipa Goslett taking over as showrunner. Despite the controversy, The Nevers has received mostly positive reviews for its thought-provoking themes, compelling characters, and stunning visuals.

The Future
The first half of The Nevers’ first season debuted in April 2021, and the remaining six episodes are set to air in 2022. However, due to the controversy surrounding its creator, the show’s future beyond the first season remains uncertain. Regardless, The Nevers has quickly gained a dedicated fan base and promises to continue its captivating storytelling in the remaining episodes.

The Nevers is a must-watch for fans of science fiction, Victorian-era dramas, and Joss Whedon’s previous works. With its complex and diverse characters, thought-provoking themes, and gripping plot, it offers a fresh and exciting take on the superhero genre. Despite its controversy, The Nevers has solidified itself as a must-see show, and fans eagerly await its return in 2022.