Carnival Row

Synopsis

Carnival Row is a fantasy television series that unfolds in a Victorian-inspired world, where mythical creatures have fled their war-torn homelands and now live among humans. The show stars Orlando Bloom as Rycroft Philostrate, a human detective tasked with solving a string of murders that threaten to destabilize the tenuous peace between the two species. Complicating matters, Rycroft has a secret past with a refugee fairy named Vignette Stonemoss, played by Cara Delevingne, who has returned to the city seeking safety and purpose. As political tensions rise and otherworldly beings face persecution, the series explores themes of love, ambition, and societal prejudice, all while offering lush visuals and elaborate world-building. Creating a backdrop filled with intrigue and betrayal, Carnival Row combines noir crime storytelling with elements of politics and romance, inviting viewers to delve into its rich narrative and complex characters.

Cast

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  Orlando Bloom

  Rycroft 'Philo' Philostrate

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  Cara Delevingne

  Vignette Stonemoss

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  Simon McBurney

  Runyan Millworthy

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  Tamzin Merchant

  Imogen Spurnrose

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  David Gyasi

  Agreus Astrayon

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  Andrew Gower

  Ezra Spurnrose

Reviews

Carnival Row has stirred a variety of reactions from critics and audiences alike. With an IMDb rating of 7.7/10, the show has been praised for its ambitious world-building and engaging performances. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the series garnered a 69% approval rating, showcasing a generally positive reception. Critics have lauded the show's artistry and depth: "Carnival Row brilliantly merges social commentary with a beautifully crafted fantasy world," stated a reviewer from Collider, highlighting its ability to reflect contemporary issues. However, some criticisms have emerged around its pacing, with The Verge mentioning that "the plot occasionally stutters, and thematic execution feels uneven at times." Metacritic gives it a score of 61, indicating mixed or average reviews and reinforcing the sentiment that while some viewers adore its stylistic choices, others find it lacking in substance. Overall, Carnival Row appeals to fans of the genre, drawing them in with its lush visuals and deeper themes, despite some narrative missteps.