Lost in Time: A Review of 56 Days Season 1

56 Days takes a unique approach to murder mysteries by focusing heavily on the physical form. The series kicks off with a decaying body, setting the tone for an investigation that delves deep into the human anatomy.

The storyline unfolds by shifting back and forth between a present-day police inquiry and the genesis of a romantic entanglement that began nearly two months earlier.

Adapted from Catherine Ryan Howard’s novel, the Prime Video series transplants the narrative from pandemic-stricken Dublin to a pandemic-free Boston, maintaining fidelity to the source material under Howard’s guidance.

The show leans into its erotic thriller genre, showcasing numerous intimate moments and revealing scenes throughout its eight episodes.

The central characters, Ciara (played by Dove Cameron) and Oliver (played by Avan Jogia), meet unexpectedly and embark on a passionate relationship filled with steamy encounters. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, highlighted by the frequent shared showers that punctuate their romance.

What sets 56 Days apart is its focus on the two lovers as the primary suspects in a perplexing crime. The mystery revolves around which of them is deceased and why the surviving partner would resort to murder in a seemingly happy relationship.

The narrative is rife with twists and revelations, although some may come across as far-fetched. Despite commendable performances from Karla Souza and Dorian Missick as the lead detectives, the pacing of the present-day storyline lags compared to the passionate dynamic between Cameron and Jogia.

Each episode closes with an intimate moment between the protagonists, emphasizing their physical connection. While the actors deliver convincing performances, the characters lack depth beyond their surface-level personas.

The potential for intrigue lies in the ambiguity of the characters’ motives and actions, hinting at darker truths beneath the surface. However, the drawn-out nature of the mystery diminishes its impact over time.

56 Days exemplifies a narrative that stretches beyond its necessary length, echoing a prevalent issue in contemporary television. While there are glimpses of potential, including poignant moments like Oliver’s emotional turmoil in episode four, the series falls short of delivering a truly engaging experience.

Despite notable supporting performances, such as Jesse James Keitel’s contribution, the overall execution feels formulaic and lacks the creative flair expected, especially with James Wan’s involvement as an executive producer.

In essence, 56 Days serves as a light and entertaining diversion, offering moments of indulgence for viewers seeking a titillating and scandalous escape. However, the series fails to transcend its basic premise, leaving Cameron and Jogia’s talents underutilized.

Is 56 Days worth watching?

If you seek a sophisticated and gripping narrative, 56 Days may not meet your expectations. Nonetheless, fans of Dove Cameron and Avan Jogia may find enjoyment in their compelling on-screen presence.