Netflix’s new Greek mythology series KAOS has finally dropped, and it’s already sparking plenty of buzz. After the success of Percy Jackson and the Olympians on Disney+, Netflix dives into the world of gods and mortals with a fresh, twisted take. Created by Charlie Covell, known for The End of the F**ing World*, KAOS brings an impressive cast including Jeff Goldblum, Janet McTeer, and Stephen Dillane. The premise? Chaos reigns on Mount Olympus as Zeus, gripped by paranoia, faces a power struggle, while three mortals are tasked with reshaping the future of humanity.
But is KAOS worth adding to your watchlist? Critics have weighed in, and here’s what you need to know.
KAOS: A Wild Ride or a Beautiful Mess?
The first reactions to KAOS are a mixed bag. On one hand, the series is praised for its bold reimagining of Greek mythology, combining dark humor, striking visuals, and deep existential musings. On the other hand, some reviewers point to uneven pacing and a sense of overconfidence in the show’s cleverness. Let’s break it down.
Lucy Mangan from The Guardian is thrilled with KAOS, calling it “funny, deep, and moving,” with unpredictable twists that captivate and surprise. She describes the series as “an absolute triumph” and thanks the gods—and Covell—for the ride.
Over at Radio Times, Louise Griffin echoes the sentiment, praising the show’s ability to blend humor, tension, and a killer soundtrack. She notes that KAOS holds up across its eight episodes, culminating in an epic, if surprisingly dark, finale.
However, not all critics are sold. Emily Baker from i points out that those expecting a grittier version of Covell’s earlier work might be disappointed. While KAOS is flashy and less subtle, Baker finds that it still manages to make a sharp political statement amidst the chaos and bloodshed.
Carol Midley from The Times also has a positive take, calling the show “an intelligent reflection on power, existentialism, and the boredom of immortality.” For her, the series is both unusual and captivating, an imaginative take on classic themes.
Energy and Chaos: The Struggle with Pacing
Despite these praises, some reviewers feel that the ambitious scope of KAOS leads to uneven pacing. Thelma Adams from the Boston Globe notes that while the first three episodes are bursting with energy, the sheer number of characters and plot threads can be overwhelming. However, once the storylines begin to converge, KAOS hits its stride.
For Joel Keller at Decider, Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of Zeus is a standout. His performance might just be the saving grace of the series, compensating for a story that sometimes feels too self-satisfied with its own cleverness.
Meanwhile, Hanna Flint from IGN enjoys the reimagining of Greek myths but criticizes the show for its failure to fully serve its large ensemble cast. The talented lineup, including Goldblum and McTeer, is a definite strength, but KAOS struggles to give each character enough time to shine.
Not for Everyone: When Greek Drama Becomes Too Much
For some, KAOS simply tries to do too much. Robert Lloyd from the Los Angeles Times found the characters’ internal squabbles and chaotic love lives grating after a while. Though the show starts with an intriguing concept, the endless infighting and reckless behavior lose their charm over time.
Similarly, Aramide Tinubu at Variety feels that while KAOS has moments of brilliance—particularly in Episode 6—many of the episodes are overly long, meandering, and artificial.
Verdict: Should You Watch KAOS?
So, is KAOS worth your time? The answer depends on your taste for dark, offbeat retellings of mythology. If you enjoy inventive, bold takes on ancient tales with a splash of humor and existential dread, KAOS could be right up your alley. Jeff Goldblum’s quirky Zeus alone might be enough reason to tune in. But if you’re looking for a more straightforward or subtle approach to mythology, KAOS might feel a little too chaotic.
Ultimately, KAOS is available on Netflix now, so why not take the plunge and see where the wild ride takes you? Whether you love it or find it overwhelming, one thing’s for sure—it’s unlike any other show out there.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.