The Innocents: A Supernatural Love Story You Need To Watch

Hey guys! Ever stumbled upon a TV series that just gets under your skin, in the best possible way? A show that blends the raw emotions of first love with a twist of the supernatural? If you haven't, let me introduce you to The Innocents. This isn't your typical teen drama; it's a beautifully crafted story that explores identity, love, and the extraordinary circumstances that can change everything.

What is The Innocents?

The Innocents, a British supernatural television series created by Hania Elkington and Simon Duric, premiered on Netflix in 2018. The series revolves around teenagers Harry and June, who run away from their repressive families to be together. However, their journey takes a dark turn when June starts exhibiting strange abilities, revealing a world of hidden secrets and dangerous transformations. The show masterfully combines elements of romance, suspense, and the supernatural, creating a compelling narrative that keeps you hooked from the very first episode. At its core, The Innocents is a story about identity, self-discovery, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love. June's transformation is not just physical; it's an exploration of her inner self and her place in the world. As she grapples with her newfound abilities, she uncovers a web of family secrets and scientific experiments that challenge everything she thought she knew. Harry, on the other hand, is the steadfast anchor, providing unwavering support and love as June navigates her extraordinary circumstances. Their relationship is tested time and again, but their bond remains the heart of the series. The supporting characters add depth and complexity to the story. From the enigmatic Dr. Halvorson, whose research holds the key to June's powers, to the other shapeshifters who offer glimpses into June's potential future, each character brings their own motivations and secrets to the table. The series explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the ethical implications of scientific advancement. It raises questions about the nature of identity, the boundaries of love, and the consequences of tampering with the natural order. With its blend of heartfelt emotion, thrilling suspense, and thought-provoking themes, The Innocents offers a viewing experience that is both entertaining and deeply resonant.

The Plot: A Deep Dive

At its core, The Innocents' plot revolves around Harry and June, two teenagers from the north of England, who decide to escape their suffocating family lives and embark on a journey together. Little do they know, their escape will lead them into a world far beyond their wildest imaginations. June soon discovers she has the ability to transform into other people. This transformation is triggered by physical contact, and it's not just a superficial change; June literally becomes the person she touches, experiencing their thoughts and emotions. The implications of this are huge, and the series delves into the psychological and emotional toll it takes on her. As June grapples with her newfound powers, she and Harry encounter Dr. Halvorson, a scientist who has been studying this rare phenomenon for years. He reveals that June is not alone; there are other women with the same ability, and he's dedicated his life to understanding and controlling it. Dr. Halvorson's motives are complex, and it's never quite clear whether he's trying to help or exploit these women. The series cleverly weaves together the personal stories of Harry and June with the larger mystery surrounding June's powers. As they journey through different landscapes and encounter various characters, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that challenge their understanding of themselves and the world around them. The plot thickens with the introduction of Elena, June’s mother, who abandoned her family years ago. Elena is also a shapeshifter, and her story provides crucial insights into the origins and nature of June’s abilities. Her motivations and experiences add another layer of complexity to the narrative, forcing June to confront difficult truths about her family and her own identity. The series also explores the ethical dilemmas faced by Dr. Halvorson and his team. Their research raises questions about the boundaries of science and the potential consequences of tampering with the natural order. Are they helping these women by trying to control their powers, or are they exploiting them for their own gain? This moral ambiguity adds depth to the story and invites viewers to question their own perspectives.

Why You Should Watch It

Okay, so why should you binge-watch The Innocents? There are tons of reasons, guys! First off, the chemistry between the lead actors, Sorcha Groundsell (June) and Percelle Ascott (Harry), is undeniable. You genuinely root for them as they navigate the craziness of their situation. This is very crucial and important to keep you watching it. Groundsell delivers a compelling performance as June, capturing her vulnerability, strength, and confusion as she grapples with her newfound abilities. Ascott is equally impressive as Harry, portraying his unwavering loyalty and love for June with heartfelt sincerity. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, making their relationship feel authentic and relatable. Their performances add emotional depth and resonance to the series. Secondly, the show isn't afraid to tackle complex themes. It's not just about shapeshifting; it delves into identity, family secrets, and the ethics of scientific research. The series explores the challenges of self-discovery and the search for belonging. June's transformation is not just physical; it's a journey of self-acceptance and understanding. The show also raises questions about the nature of identity and the boundaries of love, asking whether our identities are fixed or fluid, and whether love can transcend extraordinary circumstances. Furthermore, the visuals are stunning. The series is filmed in beautiful locations across Europe, adding to the overall atmosphere and sense of mystery. The cinematography captures the beauty of the landscapes, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the unfolding drama. The use of lighting and color enhances the mood and atmosphere of each scene, drawing viewers deeper into the story. Lastly, it's a unique take on the supernatural genre. It's not just about jump scares and special effects; it's a character-driven story that explores the human side of extraordinary abilities. The show focuses on the emotional and psychological impact of these abilities, creating a more nuanced and relatable portrayal of the supernatural. The characters' struggles and triumphs resonate with viewers, making the story more compelling and engaging.

Meet the Cast

• Sorcha Groundsell as June: She is the heart of the show, portraying the conflicted and powerful June with incredible depth.
• Percelle Ascott as Harry: The supportive and loving Harry, played by Ascott, is the anchor in June's turbulent journey.
• Guy Pearce as Dr. Halvorson: Pearce brings a chilling and enigmatic presence to the role of the scientist, whose motives are always in question.
• Ingunn Beate Øyen as Runa: A shapeshifter who offers insights into June's powers, played with a quiet intensity by Øyen.
• Lise Risom Olsen as Elena: June's mother, whose past holds the key to understanding June's abilities, portrayed with emotional complexity by Olsen.

Themes Explored

The Innocents isn't just about supernatural abilities; it dives deep into some pretty profound themes. Let's break it down:

• Identity: The show grapples with the question of what makes us who we are. Is it our physical form, our memories, or our connections with others? June's shapeshifting ability forces her to confront this question head-on, as she literally becomes other people. She experiences their thoughts, emotions, and memories, blurring the lines between her own identity and theirs. This raises questions about the nature of self and the extent to which our identities are shaped by our experiences.
• Love and Sacrifice: Harry's unwavering love for June is a central theme. He's willing to do anything for her, even if it means putting himself in danger. The series explores the different forms that love can take and the sacrifices we make for the people we care about. Harry's loyalty and devotion to June are tested time and again, but his love for her remains constant. Their relationship serves as a testament to the power of love to overcome even the most extraordinary circumstances.
• Family Secrets: The show is filled with hidden truths and family dramas. June's mother's past and Dr. Halvorson's experiments all contribute to a sense of mystery and intrigue. The series explores the impact of secrets on families and the challenges of confronting the past. June's search for her mother leads her to uncover a web of lies and betrayals, forcing her to re-evaluate her understanding of her family and her own identity.
• Ethics of Science: Dr. Halvorson's research raises ethical questions about the boundaries of science and the potential consequences of tampering with nature. The show explores the moral dilemmas faced by scientists and the responsibility they have to consider the impact of their work on society. Dr. Halvorson's pursuit of knowledge is driven by a desire to understand and control the shapeshifting ability, but his methods raise questions about the ethical implications of his research. Are his ends justifying his means?

Final Thoughts

The Innocents is more than just a supernatural drama; it's a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the human condition. If you're looking for a show that will make you think, feel, and keep you on the edge of your seat, give it a watch. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! It’s a shame that it was canceled after just one season, but the existing episodes offer a complete and satisfying story arc that’s well worth your time.

So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be captivated by the enchanting world of The Innocents. You might just discover your new favorite show!