If you’re searching for an atmospheric, stylish, and dark fantasy series but have already watched everything from Game of Thrones to His Dark Materials, now is the perfect time to discover Carnival Row.
What Is Carnival Row About?
This Amazon fantasy drama premiered in 2019 and is set in a Victorian-inspired world where humans and magical creatures coexist — but not harmoniously.
Due to war on the continent, pixies, fauns, trolls, and other mythical beings are forced to flee to human cities, becoming an oppressed minority. Meanwhile, Inspector Rycroft Philostrate (Orlando Bloom) investigates a series of brutal murders targeting these refugees. As his investigation pulls him deeper into political conspiracies and supernatural mysteries, it becomes clear that Carnival Row is much more than a steampunk detective story. It’s a tale of power, betrayal, social conflicts, and tragic love.
Why Is Carnival Row Worth Watching?
A World That Feels Real
The Victorian steampunk setting is crafted with incredible attention to detail. The city of The Burg feels alive, with dark alleys, steam-powered machinery, seedy establishments, aristocrats who despise 'monsters,' and pixies forced into servitude. There’s no simple division between 'good' and 'evil.' Humans fear non-human races, while the latter resent them for taking their lands.
Actors Who Surprise
Orlando Bloom delivers a surprisingly strong performance as the brooding detective Philostrate. If you’re used to seeing him as Legolas or in lighthearted romantic roles, prepare to witness a more mature, intense, and complex character. Cara Delevingne, as his former lover Vignette, also impresses. While often criticized for her stiff acting, she convincingly portrays a tough and weary pixie in this role.
A Deeper Social Message
The fantasy elements serve a greater purpose than mere aesthetics — the series reflects real-world issues. Themes of racial segregation, refugee crises, class inequality, and Victorian-era crime investigations reminiscent of Jack the Ripper all find their way into the narrative.
A Striking Soundtrack and Visuals
Nathan Barr’s music perfectly captures the series’ somber and oppressive atmosphere. One of the most memorable moments is a haunting song performed by Philostrate’s mother in a flashback scene.
Should You Watch It?
If you enjoy richly detailed worlds filled with steampunk aesthetics, political intrigue, and dark supernatural elements, then absolutely. Despite its flaws, Carnival Row surpasses Netflix’s The Witcher in depth and execution. So, if you missed this gem in 2019, now might be the perfect time to give it a chance.
