Before starring alongside Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber in Netflix’s The Perfect Couple, Eve Hewson had already made a name for herself with several notable roles. The real-life daughter of U2’s Bono, Hewson first captured attention as Marian in the 2018 film Robin Hood.
She further demonstrated her acting prowess in the 2021 drama series Behind Her Eyes, where she played Adele. However, it was her role in Apple TV+’s Bad Sisters that truly established her as a standout talent in the acting world.
This dark comedy series, which premiered its first season in 2022, has attracted audiences with its blend of humor and macabre themes, making it a must-watch show that deserves more recognition.
What Is Bad Sisters About?
Bad Sisters begins with a flashback to a family Christmas with the Garvey sisters, who became orphans many years earlier. The loss of their parents has had a profound impact on each sister, shaping their lives and relationships in different ways.
Now adults, the sisters are inseparable, supporting one another through life’s ups and downs. The series opens with Grace (Anne-Marie Duff) being married to John Paul (Claes Bang), a character whom the other sisters have dubbed “the Prick.”
Their disdain for John Paul is clear, as they often joke about various ways they would like to see him dead, given his toxic influence on Grace and their family.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn with a flash-forward that reveals John Paul is dead. This revelation sets the stage for the unfolding mystery: who among the sisters is responsible for his death?
The series employs alternating timelines to show the backstory and motivations of each character, gradually revealing that John Paul’s abusive behavior and the sisters’ resentment towards him make his death a complex and layered issue.
As the plot unravels, it becomes increasingly clear that the sisters had been contemplating his demise for some time. The central mystery—who actually executed the plan to kill John Paul—drives the tension and intrigue throughout the series.
The Unique Charm of Bad Sisters
The series skillfully blends dark themes with sardonic humor, creating a attractive viewing experience. The character of John Paul is portrayed as genuinely abusive, and his actions throughout the series showcase his negative impact on the family.
The humor arises from the sisters’ interactions and their attempts to deal with John Paul’s presence and eventual death. Each sister brings her own distinctive qualities to the show, enriching the narrative with their individual stories and perspectives.
Eva (Sharon Horgan) is the eldest sister, known for her unwavering commitment to protecting her siblings. Despite her best efforts, she struggles with infertility, which has deeply affected her relationships and sense of self.
Grace, on the other hand, endures a troubled marriage to John Paul, finding herself increasingly trapped in a difficult situation until his death provides a potential escape. Ursula (Eva Birthistle) appears to have a perfect family but is embroiled in an extramarital affair, creating tension within her own household.
Bibi (Sarah Greene) is a bitter woman with a mysterious eye patch, and her backstory is revealed gradually throughout the season.
Finally, Becka, portrayed by Eve Hewson, is the youngest sister and represents a free-spirited contrast to her more conventional siblings. Her role adds a unique dynamic to the family’s interactions and the full plot.
Eve Hewson’s Standout Performance
Eve Hewson’s portrayal of Becka is one of the highlights of Bad Sisters. Becka is characterized by her quirky, lighthearted demeanor and her career as a massage therapist. Despite her seemingly carefree attitude, Becka has ambitious plans to open her own studio.
When John Paul expresses interest in financing her studio but later withdraws his support, Becka gains a motive for wanting him gone. Hewson’s performance captures Becka’s charm and vulnerability, making her character both endearing and intriguing.
Becka’s romantic entanglement with Matt (Daryl McCormack), an insurance agent investigating John Paul’s death, adds another layer of drama to the story. Becka’s initial attraction to Matt and her subsequent discovery of his true profession creates a complex dynamic that further complicates her life.
Even after learning about Matt’s job, Becka’s emotional attachment to him continues to influence her decisions. Hewson’s portrayal of Becka as a character who is both loving and flawed is a testament to her acting skills. Becka’s decisions often lead to unintended complications, but Hewson manages to keep her character grounded and relatable.
The Emotional Depth of Bad Sisters
Bad Sisters is more than just a dark comedy; it goes into the emotional and psychological impact of grief and family dynamics. The show presents a nuanced portrayal of how the Garvey sisters cope with their shared trauma and the challenges they face. The series’ shows of themes such as abuse, infertility, and infidelity adds depth to the characters and their interactions.
One particularly poignant moment in the series is a conversation between Eva and her sisters in the Season 1 finale. This scene highlights the emotional weight of their experiences and the bond they share as a family.
The show balances these intense moments with humor and wit, creating a viewing experience that is both heart-wrenching and entertaining.
The Appeal of Bad Sisters
The appeal of Bad Sisters lies in its ability to combine dark and comedic elements in a way that keeps viewers engaged. The series features a mix of cringeworthy and thrilling scenes, as the sisters’ various plans to eliminate John Paul often go awry.
The mystery of who ultimately carried out the plan adds suspense, while the humor provides a lighter counterpoint to the darker aspects of the story.
The beautiful setting of Ireland serves as a picturesque backdrop for the series, enhancing the full atmosphere and tone.
Despite its quality and critical acclaim, including three Emmy nominations, Bad Sisters may not have received as much attention as it deserves. The show’s success is evident in its nominations for Outstanding Writing for a Drama and Outstanding Directing, reflecting the strength of its storytelling and execution.
Looking Ahead
With Season 2 of Bad Sisters set to premiere on November 13, there is plenty of time for viewers to catch up on the series and appreciate Hewson’s outstanding performance before the new episodes arrive.
The anticipation for the next season is high, and fans can look forward to more of the intriguing plot twists and character developments that have made the show a standout in the dark comedy genre.
Season 1 of Bad Sisters is available to stream on Apple TV+ in the U.S., offering an opportunity to experience Eve Hewson’s exceptional work and the compelling story of the Garvey sisters.
As the series prepares for its return, it promises to continue delivering the blend of humor and drama that has attracted audiences and earned critical acclaim.
Summary
Bad Sisters is a dark comedy series featuring Eve Hewson as Becka, the quirky youngest sister. The show mixes humor and drama as the Garvey sisters show family secrets and John Paul’s death. Season 1 is available on Apple TV+, with Season 2 premiering on November 13.
Bad Sisters blends dark comedy with drama, showcasing Eve Hewson as Becka, the youngest of five sisters. The show shows family secrets and the mystery behind John Paul’s death. With its unique mix of humor and suspense, it’s a must-watch, with Season 2 premiering on November 13.
