Jobaaj Stories
Is Netflix's *The Glass Dome* Worth Your Time? A Review
Predictability in a thriller is a death sentence. We crave surprise; a predictable plot leaves us not smug, but frustrated. Netflix's new Scandi noir series, *The Glass Dome*, unfortunately falls into this trap. While boasting a captivating premise—a criminologist haunted by her childhood abduction confronts a similar case—the first episode telegraphs nearly every plot point. Does the rest of the series manage to break free from its predictable shackles? Let's delve in.
A Familiar Scandi Noir Setting
The series opens with young Lejla’s abduction and fast forwards to her present-day life as a successful criminologist. A phone call brings her back to her Swedish hometown, Granås, for her adoptive mother's funeral. The somber atmosphere and moody cinematography are textbook Scandi noir. However, the familiar tropes don't stop there. The death of a friend and the subsequent abduction of her daughter mirrors Lejla's past trauma, a connection immediately obvious to the viewer.
Predictable Plot Points and Unconvincing Suspects
The investigation begins, but the predictability is disheartening. The early suspicions fall on obvious characters, leaving little room for genuine suspense. The connection between the two abductions is laid bare far too soon, robbing the mystery of its potential intrigue. While the series attempts to introduce red herrings, they feel unconvincing and easily dismissed. The Glass Dome relies too heavily on the viewer anticipating the narrative instead of providing genuine surprises. This leaves the viewer less invested in the unfolding mystery and more concerned with the formulaic approach.
Strong Performances Despite a Weak Plot
Despite the narrative’s shortcomings, the performances are commendable. Léonie Vincent convincingly portrays Lejla's internal struggle with trauma. The supporting cast adds depth to the small-town setting, creating a believable social dynamic. The visual presentation is stunning, making Granås feel both beautiful and oppressive, perfectly capturing the Scandi noir aesthetic.
Should You Stream It?
Ultimately, *The Glass Dome* offers a visually appealing and well-acted Scandi noir experience, but its predictable plot severely undermines its potential. Unless you're a die-hard fan of the genre willing to overlook formulaic storytelling, it's best to skip this one. The series squanders its intriguing premise by giving away all its secrets far too early.
