(This is an archive story, please refer to the byline for journalist's name)
By: Addison Strybosch
2022’s Netflix original Wednesday starring Jenna Ortega was an exhilarating expansion of Wednesday Addams' story.
Wednesday showcases a girl destined for much more than she had ever known and longing to remove herself from her mother’s shadow. During the series, we see a new side of Wednesday revealing how complex she is as a teenage girl and an outsider, even among the outsiders.
The plot of Wednesday is intertwined with the past, present and future of the Addams family. The story is progressing with knowledge just as she is, meaning the audience gets to learn everything alongside her character. She uncovers secrets about Jericho, Nevermore, herself and her family. You get to see the many directions in which the storyline could’ve gone due to following her train of thought throughout the plot. Revealing who her true allies are, the different sides of people you never would have seen and a change of heart in those we least expected.
We’re provided with a constant switch of potential antagonists that give the plot an eerie, suspenseful aura alongside a peek into Wednesday’s brain. Seeing her grapple with the power she holds that she was previously oblivious to is beautiful. She realizes how strong she is and how much of a force she is in the world. She discovers having friends and family that you truly care for has never been a weakness. It really does take a village to conquer things, especially evil.
Wednesday’s storyline is the main one, however, it’s not the only one. We are allotted a glimpse into both Enid and Bianca’s lives starting with family day at Nevermore. This insight gave the girls more depth and allowed the audience to have a better connection with the side characters. Opening storylines outside of the Addams family allowed for a thicker plot filled with rich and creative storytelling. Creating a more elevated and twisted story laced with enriching character development and a series for all ages to enjoy.
If you enjoyed the Addams Family franchise then Wednesday would be the perfect series for you. Due to the way it impeccably captures Wednesday as she comes to terms with her family and her place in not only the Addams family, but the world.