Exploring the New Adaptation of ‘Fallen’
Lauren Kate’s acclaimed young adult fantasy series, which debuted with the novel Fallen in 2009, captivated readers and inspired a series of sequels: Torment (2010), Passion (2011), Fallen In Love (2012), Rapture (2012), and Unforgiven (2015).While the original story won hearts worldwide, its cinematic adaptation in 2016 faced criticism, receiving a mere 7% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This failure prompted the discontinuation of any further film projects based on the series. Fans of the franchise deserved a much better representation on screen.
Fast forward to nearly a decade later, and excitement is in the air as a fresh adaptation prepares to debut, aiming to attract both loyal readers and new audiences. Previously released in 2024 by the Brazilian streaming platform Globoplay, the series is finally making its way to North American viewers through Sundance Now and AMC. This new adaptation promises to breathe new life into the story.
A Different Narrative Approach
The television adaptation of Fallen introduces a revitalized storytelling approach, diverging from Kate’s original narrative. In a familiar twist, we encounter Luce, portrayed by Jessica Alexander, on a perilous escape from an ambiguous fire, leading her to the mysterious reformatory called Sword and Cross. While key characters echo their literary counterparts, the character progression is markedly different. Notably, Daniel’s character, played by Gijs Blom, is embroiled in a journey of self-discovery that supplements Luce’s quest, a shift from the novel where he possesses prior knowledge of their circumstances.
This evolution in character arcs enriches the plot and offers new dimensions to the story. The adaptation veers into intriguing territory, stripping characters of their awareness of being part of a cultish psychological experiment, contrasting sharply with the original narrative where they were fully conscious of their reality at Sword and Cross.
Dynamic Performances and Evolving Themes
The chemistry between Alexander and Blom is palpable, rendering their performances compelling against the backdrop of the unfolding mysteries within Sword and Cross. However, interactions with the supporting cast sometimes feel contrived and overly familiar, detracting from the characters’ depth.
As the narrative unfolds, the aesthetic shifts from the traditional “dark academia”setting to a more contemporary interpretation, incorporating high-tech elements such as drones and electrical weaponry. While this modern twist aims to enhance relatability, it dilutes the nostalgic gloom and mystique characteristic of the original narrative. Drawing inspiration from series like Legion (2017) and Moon Knight (2022), the inclusion of viewpoints from “elders”in the plot seems premature and undermines the suspense that could have developed further.
Character Depth and New Storylines
A highlight of this adaptation is the expanded storyline of Penn, portrayed brilliantly by Esmé Kingdom. In the original gripping story, Penn’s character exits too soon, but here she plays an integral role in unearthing the hidden truths about Sword and Cross, potentially extending her storyline beyond the boundaries set by Lauren Kate’s novel.
The adaptation also presents a more explicit portrayal of the cult-like aspects prevalent in the narrative, with less focus on traditional Christian elements. Observers may recognize echoes of themes from The Handmaid’s Tale and references reminiscent of The Da Vinci Code. This blend of genres generates curiosity, though it risks limiting the mystique that defined the original series. A slower revelation process would have allowed characters and viewers to grapple with the enigmatic elements longer before unveiling the core truths.
A Compelling Viewing Experience
Despite these critiques regarding pacing and narrative choices, my engagement with this adaptation remains strong. Luce and Daniel’s characters are enchanting with their layered, dark personas, representing troubled teens navigating complex emotional landscapes. The supporting characters, including Molly (portrayed by Maura Bird) and Arriane (played by Josefine Koenig), provide impressive performances that elevate the series as it carves out uncharted territories within its storyline.
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