Common Sense Media Review
By Matt Cabral
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sci-fi matchmaking-meets-murder mystery has sex, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The One
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Based on a novel of the same name, THE ONE is a British series that takes place in a near future, where couples are matched via a DNA test. The show explores the pros and cons of this discovery, but its main plot involves a murder mystery and the charaacters at the center of it. The story focuses on Rebecca Webb (Hannah Ware,) the evil-doing CEO of the titular company, as well as the friends, foes, and law enforcement that get tangled up in her lies, deceipt, corruption, and criminal activities. Several subplots, including those involving characters who've found their "match," spawn a number of twists and turns.
Is It Any Good?
The One will immediately feel familiar to anyone who watched Soulmates, AMC's anthology series about people finding their perfect romantic match via a near-future scientific test. But while both shows begin with eerily similar concepts, the former quickly forgoes the latter's deeper, more nuanced approach to exploring relationships impacted by such a discovery for the sort of pulpy thrills that have become Netflix staples.
This might sound like a knock against The One, but there's no denying its ability to pull you into its binge-worthy formula. Sure, its central conceit would probably be better served by more thoughtful, emotional tales focused on "matched" couples. That said, its deft handling of multiple, twisty subplots, involving murder, lies, deceit, and corruption still make for a compelling ride. Toss in Ware's juicy dual-performance as sinister CEO and over-ambitious research scientist (in flashbacks,) and The One will keep you glued to the screen as only the best guilty pleasures can.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the series' scientific discovery? Is such a discovery possible? What are the pros and cons of the DNA test? How does it change the show's near-future society?
How is character Rebecca Webb different in the past versus present day? How do her motivations differ in the two timelines? Are her actions driven by good or bad intentions?
How do Webb's actions effect the other characters? Does anyone benefit or suffer from her deeds?
TV Details
- Premiere date : February 26, 2021
- Cast : Hannah Ware
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : STEM
- Character Strengths : Communication , Curiosity
- TV rating :
- Last updated : December 3, 2025
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