Webbings obsessive: a marriage of secrets and suspicion
A tense, visually arresting drama, Obsession, has landed on Netflix, promising a slow-burn descent into marital darkness and a healthy dose of illicit desire. Forget breezy weekend viewing – this is a series designed to burrow under your skin.
The setup: a surgeon's fatal flaw
Richard Armitage delivers a chilling portrayal of William Farrow, a respected surgeon whose carefully constructed life unravels with the introduction of Anna Burton, his son’s fiancée. The affair, initially a fleeting lapse, quickly becomes a consuming obsession for William, a vortex threatening to swallow his family and career whole. Indira Varma as Ingrid, William’s wife, is a masterclass in simmering suspicion – her every glance, every carefully chosen word, speaks volumes of a woman on the precipice of discovering the truth.
Inspired by dark literature
Obsession isn’t simply a contemporary thriller; it’s rooted in Josephine Hart’s 1991 novel, Damage, a story that’s been adapted before. Director Luke Jones maintains a deliberate pace, mirroring the insidious creep of the affair and the mounting pressure within the Farrow household. The production design is exceptional, utilizing stark lighting – both exterior and interior – to cultivate a pervasive atmosphere of dread and a disconcerting sense of euphoria. It’s a deliberate choice, expertly executed.
Critical acclaim and viewer reaction
Initial reception was overwhelmingly positive. The Times described the series as ‘addictive,’ while Rolling Stone praised the production values, noting the immersive quality of the visuals. However, viewers have been equally captivated, describing the show as ‘sneaky and steamy,’ with one praising the ‘great music, great acting, a lot of sex, taboo sex but gave a chilling, thriller feel throughout.’
The cast – familiar faces in new roles
Armitage, known for his work with Harlan Coben, brings a gravitas to the role that's both unsettling and compelling. Varma, a veteran of Game of Thrones and The Capture, perfectly embodies Ingrid’s quiet desperation. Charlie Murphy, who previously captivated audiences in Happy Valley as Ann Gallagher, portrays Anna with a magnetic vulnerability. And Rish Shah, appearing after his Disney+ role in Ms. Marvel, provides a grounded counterpoint as Jay Farrow, the family’s son.
Where to watch
All four episodes of Obsession are currently streaming exclusively on Netflix. Prepare to lose sleep – this is a series that demands your full attention.