Behind Her Eyes (2021) is a British psychological thriller and supernatural noir series created by Steve Lightfoot. Based on Sarah Pinborough’s 2017 novel of the same name, the show premiered on Netflix on February 17, 2021. It quickly gained attention for its intriguing plot, complex characters, and shocking twists. The series follows a woman caught in a tangled web of secrets, obsession, and supernatural occurrences, offering a captivating exploration of the darker aspects of human nature.

The story revolves around Louise Barnsley (played by Simone Ashley), a single mother and secretary who embarks on a complicated affair with her boss, David Ferguson (played by Tom Bateman). Things take an unexpected turn when Louise befriends David’s wife, Adele (played by Eve Hewson), who appears to be a kind and gentle woman but harbors deep secrets. As Louise becomes more involved with both David and Adele, she uncovers hidden truths about their marriage and the strange occurrences that surround them, eventually leading her to confront a horrifying supernatural mystery.

One of the main themes in Behind Her Eyes is obsession. Louise becomes increasingly entangled in the lives of David and Adele, drawn to their complex relationship and mysterious behavior. Her fascination with them, especially with Adele, gradually evolves into an unhealthy obsession that blinds her to the consequences of her actions. The series explores the lengths to which people will go when driven by desire, obsession, and a need for validation. This theme is central to the unraveling of the plot, as the characters’ emotions and desires cloud their judgment and lead them into dangerous territory.

The show’s supernatural elements add a layer of intrigue and suspense to the psychological drama. As the story progresses, viewers are introduced to a mysterious phenomenon involving astral projection, where Adele and David possess the ability to switch bodies through their dreams. This element brings a sense of surrealism to the narrative, blurring the line between reality and the supernatural. The series uses these surreal moments to explore deeper psychological themes, such as identity, control, and manipulation, and how these forces shape the characters’ relationships and fates.

The performances in Behind Her Eyes are key to the success of the series. Eve Hewson, in particular, delivers a standout performance as Adele, capturing the complexity of a woman who is both vulnerable and manipulative. Tom Bateman also shines as David, portraying a man struggling with his own demons while maintaining a facade of control. Simone Ashley’s portrayal of Louise, a woman caught between her desires and her moral compass, adds depth to the emotional weight of the story. The cast’s ability to bring these multifaceted characters to life makes the twists and turns of the plot all the more impactful.

The show’s pacing and structure are designed to keep viewers on edge, with each episode revealing more about the characters’ pasts and the secrets they are hiding. The narrative is nonlinear, constantly shifting between different perspectives and timelines. This structure mirrors the confusion and uncertainty experienced by Louise as she uncovers the truth. As the story builds to its shocking conclusion, the twists become increasingly unpredictable, culminating in a finale that is both surprising and unsettling.

In conclusion, Behind Her Eyes is a psychological thriller that captivates its audience with a compelling mix of drama, suspense, and supernatural intrigue. Through its complex characters, gripping narrative, and thought-provoking themes, the series offers a fresh take on the thriller genre. The show’s exploration of obsession, identity, and manipulation, combined with its supernatural elements, makes it a standout in the world of psychological thrillers. With its shocking twists and unforgettable characters, Behind Her Eyes is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful, thought-provoking television.