Apple TV+ has been steadily expanding its international content library, and “Where’s Wanda?” marks its first foray into German-language programming. This quirky crime thriller, laced with dark humor, takes viewers on a wild ride as a couple desperately searches for their missing daughter. But does this unique blend of genres hit the mark? Let’s dive in and find out.
Where’s Wanda?
“Where’s Wanda?” centers around Dedo and Carlotta Klatt, whose 17-year-old daughter, Wanda, vanishes without a trace. As the days turn into months, and the dreaded 100-day mark looms (statistically, the point where hope dwindles), the Klatts take matters into their own hands. Frustrated with the lack of progress in the police investigation, they embark on a clandestine mission to bug their neighbors’ houses, convinced that someone in their quaint town of Sundersheim is harboring their daughter.
What ensues is a bizarre blend of crime thriller and slapstick comedy, a combination that has seen success in shows like “Bad Sisters” and “Only Murders in the Building.” However, the gravity of Wanda’s disappearance makes the humor in “Where’s Wanda?” a bit jarring at first. The show oscillates between Carlotta’s raw displays of grief and farcical scenes of the Klatts’ amateur sleuthing, creating a somewhat uneven tone in the early episodes.
For the tech-savvy viewer, the Klatts’ transformation of their basement into a makeshift surveillance hub is a highlight. With their son Ole’s help, they rig up multiple screens to monitor the live feeds from their neighbors’ homes. This DIY surveillance operation adds a layer of technological intrigue to the narrative, raising questions about privacy and the ethical implications of such actions.
The show weaves in elements of German folklore, particularly the legend of the Nuppelwockennacht, a mythical creature who emerges from the forest to kidnap a virgin. This adds a layer of supernatural suspense to the plot, hinting at a darker, more sinister force at play.
“Where’s Wanda?” exemplifies the current trend of globalized television, catering to both international audiences and underserved local markets. While the show’s setting is generically small-town, the German language and cultural nuances add a unique flavor. However, it’s worth noting that the series was actually written by a British writer, Oliver Lansley, which might explain the somewhat universal feel.
The New York Times recently coined the term “Mid-TV” to describe shows like “Where’s Wanda?” – well-made, engaging series that may not achieve blockbuster status but still offer solid entertainment. “Where’s Wanda?” falls squarely into this category. It’s “good enough” – a phrase that perfectly encapsulates the viewing experience.
“Where’s Wanda?” is an enjoyable, albeit slightly uneven, watch. The show’s unique blend of genres, coupled with its intriguing mystery and technological elements, will keep viewers hooked. While it may not be the most groundbreaking series, it offers a solid dose of entertainment and a glimpse into German culture.
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