Written by John Edward Betancourt Still from ‘Episode 1’ of ‘The Last Anniversary’ Courtesy of AMC+.
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘The Last Anniversary’.
Normally stories about second chances and/or an opportunity to refresh and reinvent one’s life, are supremely positive in nature once the second chance and reset button appears, and understandably so. Because now we get to be treated to a story of growth. Where someone in need of direction can show us a way forward if by chance, we find ourselves in a spot similar to their own. Which is why it is always so shocking to encounter a story that bucks that trend. For we always see such matters as beautiful and not say, disruptive or unpleasant, but we honestly… should see that more, to give us perspective. Since reinvention isn’t pretty and second chances sometimes come at the cost of others. Which is why the new AMC+ series, The Last Anniversary, is of note. For its series premiere informs us of the fact that it will be that alternative story regarding such matters, and so much more, all courtesy of a unique story for certain. One that introduces us to the inhabitants of Scribby Gum Island. A place that already harbors mysteries and secrets, thanks to its fascinating past involving an orphaned child named Enigma. But it is also a place in mourning in this tale. For Connie Munro has died and her final wishes, outright stun her family. For she has left her entire estate to a woman named Sophie Richardson. Who was once engaged to Thomas, another member of the family, and well, this move simply does not make sense to the family. After all, they believed that Connie would entrust her estate to a Munro, and well, that creates chaos for the family and gives rise to a fascinating series premiere. One that makes it clear, that not every fresh start happens to be a true gift to the person in need of one. Because while Sophie is indeed at a tough place in her life and trying to find direction… she’s displacing a family and simply taking over a corner of her past that should be long forgotten. Which sets the stage for a powerful season of exploration. Wherein Sophie will have to navigate life as an heir, as she works to sort the chaos in her life and soul, and of course, learn why Connie thought her best to be the home’s new caretaker. Which should also in turn, open up old wounds and mysteries since this family clearly has some skeletons in its closet. Yet, this premiere also makes it clear, that it is also going to offer up some amazing commentary on our world. Specifically, what life is like for women in the 21st Century. Since there are moments in this episode, that ponder deeply upon how dating in 2025 is a freakin’ nightmare, and how there are stunning expectations put upon a woman past the age of thirty when they have not started a family yet, and how that’s problematic somehow. Along with moments that speak to the silly expectations put upon women, period. Plus, there are hints of explorations to come, regarding how lost we find ourselves in this modern world and of course, how family life can sometimes be toxic, since there are members of the Munro family that are already insufferable, and that few will care for after watching this brilliant series premiere. Since this does what a premiere should do. It sets the stage for the story, in a manner that is both grand and intimate. Since we learn so much about this island and this wild family. One that is hurting and is angry for reasons that might go beyond the most important aspect of this premiere. In that, it takes the time to present a fresh start story in a new light. Not to scare, not to insult, but to inform us that fresh starts are rare and require work to get us where we really want to go, and we need that message on display since so many now just want to hit the reset button. And it will be fascinating to go on this journey with Sophie and this family, as they navigate such complexities and life, courtesy of a story that is clearly eager to take us on a special and intimate journey that is both refreshing and unique. Until next time. Watch ‘The Last Anniversary’
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