Time and mind bending in 20th century America.

It sounds like a simple premise – reality constantly shifting for Kirby, the survivor of a violent attack – but the story is initially complicated and I imagine Lauren Beukes’ 2013 novel may have been easier to follow than this series opener.

Your reviewer comes to this TV series without prior knowledge, not having read the book, so take that as my disclaimer. That being said, I did find this first episode – while beautifully shot and imbued with sinister mystery – quite confusing at times. I can see why Apple TV chose to release more than just the first instalment, because if you keep investing your time, you will reap the rewards, despite the questions you’ll have.

More than anything, the narrative feels like an onion being peeled very slowly. I’d argue too slowly and at this point, the significance of each scene is unclear but the show-runners are clearly playing the long game. What Shining Girls doesn’t do is pull focus from Kirby, our protagonist, as her trauma is kept front and centre, from the lines cut into her skin to the ongoing confusion wrought in her life from reality shifting around her like sand and without warning. We are seeing this through her eyes, and that feels right. Perhaps the point of this introduction is to make the audience feel as lost as Kirby? Mission accomplished if so.

Recognition is due to the key players: Elisabeth Moss who breaths anxiety and strength into Kirby in equal measure, giving us enough reason to stay tuned, and the outstanding Wagner Moura who gives the beleaguered journalist, Dan, so much heart, we’re rooting for him before we even understand the reason he finds himself almost at rock bottom.

Verdict: A confusing opener, but I suspect that’s the point. Intriguing, nonetheless. 7/10

Claire Smith