Lessons from Baby Reindeer for Netflix

Through the creation of Baby Reindeer, Netflix has transformed a disturbing real-life stalking tale into a seven-episode series, much like the success of the show Fleabag. However, there is a concern about the potential for the streaming platform to go too far in its depiction of the events.

Richard Gadd’s limited series, Baby Reindeer, has suddenly made its debut on Netflix and quickly climbed the charts to become a top 10 show and trending on social media. The story is heavily inspired by Gadd’s own life and has been adapted from a one-man play to a TV series. It follows Donny (played by Gadd), a struggling comedian, who becomes involved with Martha (Jessica Gunning) while working at a local pub. Baby Reindeer serves as a cautionary tale about stalking, breaking the stereotype of the femme fatale.

Despite its rapid pace of seven episodes, each one is an incredibly difficult experience to endure. Gadd bravely confronts and explores his own vulnerabilities, delving deep into the layers of his personal trauma in a raw and visceral manner. While the initial three episodes focus on the repercussions of Martha’s stalking, Episode 4 delves into Donny’s past, revealing the origins of his distinct behavioral patterns. This episode has already been hailed as one of the most chilling moments on television this year.

Despite Baby Reindeer being just one of many Netflix shows that draws inspiration from real-life tragedies, it will not be the last. However, the raw and revealing nature of Gadd’s work may lead the streaming platform to draw misguided conclusions from his vulnerability. Fan reactions have consistently shown that Netflix’s decisions do not always align with audience desires, and this trend may continue. Viewer discretion is advised as this content may be disturbing for some.

Netflix Brings “Fleabag”Energy to “Baby Reindeer”

Despite initial appearances, Baby Reindeer has followed in the footsteps of Netflix’s ‘Fleabag’ in terms of its content. Both shows began as one-person plays at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, delving into personal traumas and incorporating anecdotal references. It took years for both Gadd and Phoebe Waller-Bridge to develop screen adaptations, which have ultimately gained widespread praise from both critics and viewers.

Every author immerses their readers into a variety of topics that are typically avoided by society, exploring difficult personal experiences that navigate through devastating challenges in life. This approach was incredibly successful for Fleabag and appears to be replicated in Baby Reindeer. However, the difference lies in the fact that Waller-Bridge first created her story for a smaller BBC audience, while Gadd is now competing against a financially-motivated international streaming service.

While credit must be given to both Netflix and Baby Reindeer, the series successfully navigates a delicate balance by infusing difficult subject matter with moments of undeniable humor. In Episode 4, the show reaches an unprecedented level as it delves into Donny’s past of rape and sexual assault through raw and realistic flashbacks. Gadd fearlessly explores these sensitive topics, resulting in a sobering and impactful viewing experience. However, there is a concern that if Netflix continues to pursue this approach, it may have negative consequences.

Finding Balance in Addressing Trauma

Despite its success, Baby Reindeer should not be praised solely for its ability to captivate viewers for life. It should not be used as a standard for exploiting trauma in order to create a binge-worthy show. The creator, Richard Gadd, has chosen not to disclose many details about his own personal experience with stalking, and he should not be expected to. The same goes for creating art; it is not necessary to expose one’s innermost self in order to produce a compelling and popular series on a global streaming platform.

During an interview with Netflix in a behind-the-scenes clip, Gadd expressed his reservations about the public being aware of his struggles when he was approached to create the series. It is understandable why he would feel this way, as it could potentially put his safety and well-being at risk. Additionally, by being vulnerable and sharing his story, Gadd is opening himself up to interpretation and criticism from those with access to social media. This is a brave decision, and while it is crucial to have authentic representation, it would be naive to ignore the potential consequences.

In addition, it may come as a surprise that Netflix agreed to produce a strictly limited series. In today’s industry, all content must have the potential for renewal, and a second season is usually hinted at, even if it ultimately does not come to fruition. Considering its subject matter, Baby Reindeer may be perceived as a disposable tragedy when viewed from a business standpoint.

Netflix’s potential mistake would be adopting the mindset of “if it worked for Baby Reindeer, it will work for everything”for their future content. This approach could establish the expectation that all entertainment must cater to both viewers and creators, which could have harmful consequences by eliminating the diversity of fictional narratives.

Discover an abundance of true crime shows and documentaries available for streaming, in addition to a selection of incredible movies to watch on Netflix this month. And if that’s not satisfying enough, stay updated on the upcoming K-drama releases on the platform.