Disclaimer is a brilliantly acted, gorgeously shot drama filled with lust, betrayal, and fascinating character dynamics. Alfonso Cuaron’s new limited series also feels relatively safe and straightforward, right up until the moment it doesn’t.
The series follows a handful of characters at various stages in their lives, slowly revealing their connection to one another. We’re presented with a bitter conflict between two of them in present times, and with each passing episode, we’re given a little more context about their history. It’s not initially clear who some of these characters are, as the series flips back and forth between past and present, making the central mystery all the more intriguing.
It’s a slow burn, which I thankfully had the opportunity to watch all at once. There are times in the middle of the series where I felt like the story was spinning its wheels, holding out on answers we should’ve had already. It’s 7 parts in total, which each running between 45 minutes and an hour. I think watching this week to week is asking a lot of viewers, and while I still highly recommend checking it out, I think a binge watch does wonders for this particular story.
Coming from universally acclaimed filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron, I probably don’t need to tell you how technically stunning this show is, but I will anyways. Cuaron along with cinematographers Emmanuel Lubezki and Bruno Delbonnel have given us one of the most gorgeously shot series of the year. Filmed through wide lensing, with plenty of lengthy, uninterrupted takes, there’s so much detail in every scene. From the damp, grey streets of downtown London to sun drenched beaches in Italy.
Just as noteworthy as the production values are the performances, led by the always incredible Cate Blanchet. This is another career highlight for Blanchet, as she completely devours every word of dialogue she’s given. Kevin Kline plays such a snake of a man, and does it so well. Watching him descend further into irredeemable territory as his scheme falls into place is like watching a car crash - it’s awful, but you can’t look away. Leila George is also excellent as the younger version of Blanchet’s character, capturing her mannerisms perfectly.
Disclaimer is a slow burn that gradually builds intrigue long before it provides the big answers. Elevated by Cuaron’s gorgeous direction and a stellar cast, this limited series requires plenty of patience, but the shocking conclusion is well worth the wait. The first three episodes are now streaming on Apple TV+, with new episodes airing every Friday.
4/5
Review by: Benjamin Garrett