This show has got it all. An incredible lead performance by Tatiana Maslany (known for her shapeshifting acting prowess on the show Orphan Black, or for Marvel Fans, She-Hulk), a dark sense of humour, a unique and engaging visual style, a plot full of gripping twists and turns, a pulsating score, well-timed needle drops and so much more. What more could you ask for from a comedic thriller?
Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed follows Paula (Tatiana Maslany) as she attempts to balance being newly divorced and a tense co-parenting relationship. She's overwhelmed and lonely, seeking connection in unexpected places. This gets all the more complicated when she gets entangled in a web of sex, murder and blackmail. Not where you thought that would go right? Exactly. It is best to go into this without knowing too much and let the show take you on its wild twisty ride of mystery and intrigue. I was so gripped by this first episode that I completely forgot I had made myself a cup of tea to accompany me on my watch. I left the show stunned, excited to watch more, with a cold cup of tea left by my side. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
Throughout the first episode, you see Paula's world unravel and Paula along with it. The visuals intensify this feeling - frenetic urgent framing and swift transitions make Paula's anxiety inescapable. You're right there with her. As the tension rises, we begin to see Paula framed through windows and mirrors, from afar and behind. We get the sense that she is not alone, maybe even being watched. It's not the kind of company that she seeks.
She's joined by the ever-mesmerizing Dolly De Leon as Detective Sofia Gonzalez, and Jake Johnson (of New Girl fame) as her ex-husband Karl. The cast is stacked and I'm curious to see how these characters come to influence Paula's ever imploding world.
So, are you going to join me on this rollercoaster ride? I'll be here every week eagerly awaiting the unexpected revelations (and needle drops) this show is sure to have in store. Who knows what's next, but I'm excited to find out together.