This feels like a more focused but less prolific version of Dexter, where we follow a disturbingly meticulous stalker over the course of a singular obsession. This series skews more comedy than horror, but horrific elements are never far from the forefront. While light on gore, and certain elements and sequences stretch credulity, there’s a plausibility and relatability to the portrayal of the horrific elements that justify the viewing for genre aficionados. The show-runners do an admirable job with the appalling nature of the premise, delivering cautionary notes atop gripping moments and demonstrating how horrifically easy it is for Joe to achieve his objective. Certain sequences will leave the viewer confused as to whether they should be rooting for Joe’s antics or hoping to see him caught and committed, especially in the later episodes where things get exponentially darker. We are fully informed of Joe’s backstory and how he developed into the creature he is, both garnering tragic sympathy but solidifying suspected levels of Joe’s psychosis. Where the show becomes immensely bingeable is in the darkly hilarious writing and sendup of rom-com tropes and modern social media lifestyles. Privy to Joe’s inner monologue, we understand how he paints himself as the hero of his own story while justifying increasingly despicable action. There is a nice build and escalation to the season and events that transpire, as minor elements from earlier episodes begin to rebound and the cracks in Joe’s facade begin to show. The last episodes go utterly dark, sacrificing most of the humorous elements, but remaining utterly riveting from start to finish. Immensely charismatic leads coupled with the sharp script and hilarious satire on modern society make the entire exercise a hilariously depraved pleasure that holds up under multiple viewings. The ending nicely ties up most of the lingering threads for the season while even opening the possibility for a second season which would be entirely welcome, provided Joe doesn’t suddenly decide to embrace a calling as a lumberjack.
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