Meadowlands
There are new neighbourhoods springing up everywhere. So it’s no surprise to see a series focussing on a family’s move to a new home in a new town. However, it’s not common for people to be transported to their new abode in a vehicle with blackened windows, or for the travellers to be blindfolded for the duration. Nor do most suburbs claim to be “… the safest suburb on Earth”.
Need I tell you: this is no ordinary neighbourhood.
After they have been dispatched, and the car has driven away, the Brogans - evidently unperturbed by their unusual mode of transport - casually remove their blindfolds and look up at the beautiful new house that stands before them, before picking up their suitcases and heading inside.
It won’t be long before they throw a party to meet their neighbours, who will thank them in kind by regaling them with a bizarre synchronised dance routine. Are they crazy, or is this simply a unique welcome befitting an equally unique neighbourhood?
Among the neighbours, is Brenda, whose exceptional daughter Jezebel, is currently absent, but due to return soon. No matter, you’ll meet her soon enough, and discover just what makes her so exceptional, though it’s safe to say, it won’t strike you immediately. You’ll also find out why Mark Brogan hasn’t uttered a word in a long, long time.
In fact, you’ll learn much of what there is to know about Meadowlands and its inhabitants during the first series. Gradually. Bit by teasing bit, and with a lot to keep you engaged and entertained along the way. There are intriguing twists, turns and discoveries that are revealed in each episode, until – well, you’ll have to wait and see.
What a shame there is no news yet, of a second series. Thankfully, there are sufficient answers in the first series (comprising eight episodes), to make it self-contained, while nevertheless finishing on a suitably tantalising note.
In many respects, with its masterful balance of intrigue and reward via explanations, Meadowlands is what Lost set out to be, but failed to realise. It is a must-see for any fan of cutting-edge mystery/drama series. Meadowlands is a series even more exceptional than the awesome lass that is Jezebel. But don’t tell Brenda I said that.