Books vs. Movies: Behind Her Eyes

Welcome back, literature and film enthusiasts! In this episode of Books vs Movies, I dive into the perplexing world of Sarah Pinborough's "Behind Her Eyes" and its 2021 Netflix adaptation. Fresh from personal milestones like becoming a godmother and attending the South Texas New Latinx Play Festival, I take you through a journey that intertwines my life events with an in-depth critique of this psychological thriller

The episode begins with a celebration of personal achievements, as I share my joy of becoming the godmother to Dahlia Rose and witnessing my partner Orlando's play "Burritos Pa Morir" receive accolades at the South Texas New Latinx Play Festival. This warm introduction sets the stage for a shift in tone as I delve into the intricate plot and controversial ending of "Behind Her Eyes."

"Behind Her Eyes" centers on Louise, a single mother who becomes embroiled in an affair with her boss, David, while simultaneously befriending his seemingly fearful wife, Adele. The story takes a mind-bending turn with the introduction of astral projection and body swaps, leading to a shocking twist that has left audiences both captivated and confused.

In the episode, I highlight the faithful adaptation of the book into the miniseries, noting that the core plot remains largely unchanged. However, it's the ending that sparks the most debate. The twist involves Robert, a character who learns to astral project and ultimately takes over Adele's body, then later Louise's. This cycle of deception and murder culminates in an ending that left many, including me, feeling unsatisfied.

My critique extends to the character portrayals in the miniseries. Simona Brown's performance as Louise is lauded for its depth, especially in scenes where she grapples with fear and internal conflict. Eve Hewson's portrayal of Adele is equally praised for its complexity, oscillating between vulnerability and manipulation. The episode also highlights Tyler Howitt's impactful performance as Louise's son, Adam, whose final scene is particularly poignant.

One of the standout discussions in the episode is the analysis of the controversial twist ending. I dissect the implications of the body-swapping narrative, expressing my frustration with the stereotyping and the overall execution of the twist. I note that while the marketing of the book effectively built up anticipation for a shocking conclusion, the actual ending fell flat, failing to deliver the satisfying resolution that fans of psychological thrillers crave.

Despite my critiques, I acknowledges the engaging writing of the book and the compelling performances in the miniseries. I ultimately rate the book three stars and the miniseries 3.5 stars, with the miniseries edging out due to the strength of its performances. I encourages listeners to watch the miniseries, if only to witness the masterful acting of Simona Brown and Eve Hewson.

The episode concludes with a thoughtful reflection on the fate of Louise's son, Adam, and the emotional impact of the story's resolution. I ponder the long-term effects of growing up with a mother who no longer loves him, weighing the psychological trauma of abandonment versus emotional neglect. This nuanced discussion adds depth to the critique, leaving listeners with much to consider.

Overall, this episode of Books vs Movies offers a comprehensive and engaging analysis of "Behind Her Eyes," bridging the worlds of literature and television.My passion for storytelling and my keen insights make for a compelling conversation that will resonate with fans of psychological thrillers and those interested in the complexities of book-to-screen adaptations.