Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Violent, suspense-filled adaptation has mature themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Unseen
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Based on the Turkish series Fatma, UNSEEN is a South African drama about a woman responsible for a string of deaths while searching for her husband. Zenzi Mwale (Gail Mabalane) cleans for a living, has limited resources, and is mourning the loss of her son. Two years ago her husband, Max (Vuyo Dabula), was imprisoned for a murder he falsely admitted to committing. But when he's released and goes missing after giving evidence against the real killers, Zenzi embarks on a search that leads her into Cape Town's dangerous world of organized crime. What follows is a journey filled with desperation, revenge, and murder.
Is It Any Good?
The gritty adaption, which is mostly offered as a series of flashbacks, offers a strong plot and enough suspenseful moments to keep you entertained. Unseen's Zenzi is a strong character whose life, which was once fulfilled, spiraled downward into a day-to-day struggle for physical and emotional survival. While the morality of Zenzi's actions are questionable, it's difficult to condemn them because these acts appear to be her attempt to finally reclaim her power after having so little for so long. Meanwhile, the way she uses her gender and position in society, which renders her invisible to most, is intriguing. Granted, the first episode introduces some questionable plot points, but the story remains compelling nonetheless. Ultimately, Unseen delivers a solid and suspenseful viewing experience through a South African cultural lens that's worth sinking your teeth into.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different ways that someone can be invisible despite the fact they're among people. In what ways does Unseen portray this?
What has led to South Africa's diverse population over the years? Are you surprised by its history? Why?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 29, 2023
- Cast : Gail Mabalane , Vuyo Dabula , Brendon Daniels
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 2, 2023
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