Media Profile: A Series of Unfortunate Events
Recently, I rewatched a favourite childhood series of mine called “A Series of Unfortunate Events.” However, despite it being labeled a children’s show, it has an incredibly complex commentary on social issues, the imperfect nature of justice, and human optimism.
A series of unfortunate events is originally a book series by Daniel Handler, which has two TV and movie adaptations. The recent Netflix adaptation is believed to be the most faithful to the source material.
The first aspect of this adaptation that is very interesting involves its use of humans’ inherent desire for hope, or belief in hope. The literal opening song verbatim says “Look Away” and describes how disappointing this tale is, and just how miserable the circumstances of the Baudelaire orphans’ lives are. The story never lies about its outcome. There is no triumph, there is no satisfying resolution. However, even with that warning, viewers continue to watch and observe the lives of the Baudelaire orphans. We even expect these orphans to be rewarded for their hardships or finally get justice. The question then becomes, why? Why do humans continue to believe in a happy ending despite being explicitly told there is no happy ending? This series seems to argue that hope is an inherent human feature, and in many ways paints the viewers as equally delusional as the adults within the story.
Additionally, the role of justice and adults within this media is also interesting. In most films and media, adults are portrayed as not only logical but also as safeguarders of the law. This is flipped on its head in a series of unfortunate events, with Mr. Poe, the supposed protector of the children, being incompetent and oblivious. The story portrays justice through a very cynical lens, with justice being used more often than not to harm the children. The tale presents the very flawed nature of the legal system and authority in our real world. Arguing that intelligence, or morality, does not guarantee power or success. Count Olaf repeatedly gets away with crimes not because he is brilliant or clever, but because society is careless and oblivious.
Overall, this series is incredibly fascinating as it diverts from the stereotypical children’s portrayal in novels and adds an extra layer of gothic humor and whimsy to its tale. While simultaneously establishing an intricate and metaphorical worldview, it also weaves real-world themes into its storyline. A Series of Unfortunate Events is a wonderfully executed book and TV series that continues to be relevant to children and adult viewers alike.