'One Day' Review: Netflix's romance drama series shines with timeless storytelling and stellar performances

With its astonishingly nuanced depiction of complex relationships, 'One Day' serves the right blend of love and affection
PUBLISHED FEB 8, 2024
A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)
A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)

Contains spoilers for 'One Day' on Netflix 

LONDON, ENGLAND: The fragile exploration of the intimate connection and vulnerability of two young people navigating the harsh realities of the outside world is presented in Netflix's new series 'One Day.'

Created by Nicole Taylor and starring Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod, Netflix's latest series 'One Day' is based on the novel of the same name by David Nicholls.

There was also a movie version of the well-loved book with Jim Sturgess and Anna Hathaway, but it was harshly criticized and disappointed the audience.

The series, which spans two decades, follows the exciting journey of two leads, Emma Morley (Ambika Mod) and Dexter Mayhew (Leo Woodall), whose meeting at their graduation celebration sets off a poignant and bittersweet series of events.

Nicole Taylor has crafted an excellent narrative

A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)
A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)

The plot is similar to what we have already seen: two complete opposites, a playboy and a sincere, determined girl, meet and end up spending time together.

Although many sparks fly, they bid each other farewell and only cross paths again the following year. Although the plot of 'One Day' is cliched, its execution is what makes the series stand out.

First of all, a Netflix series with 14 episodes is extremely uncommon, but you won't feel overpowered. In fact, you'll be immersed.

Nicole Taylor, the lead writer, has written an incredibly well-paced plot that follows characters as they grow from impressionable students to mature adults taking on life's most important challenges.

Throughout the series, her writing subtly raises the question of whether or not they will end up together.

The dynamic relationship between Emma and Dexter is expertly translated into the series by Molly Manners, Luke Snellin, John Hardwick, and Kate Hewitt.

The storyline is engrossing and produces a deep, immersive visual experience that will enable you to share Emma and Dexter's experiences.

The talented team has successfully captured the essence of the original source material, allowing fans to experience the magic through heartfelt storytelling.

Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall share dazzling chemistry

A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)
A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)

The captivating chemistry between the two leads adds realism to the character's development.

Woodall embodies the charming yet flawed Dexter skillfully. His portrayal of a carefree young man dealing with the realities of adulthood is nuanced.

The scenes in which Dexter finds himself in disarray following Emma's death are sufficient to cement Woodall's reputation as a master actor.

In addition, Mod delivers a powerful performance as Emma, continuously bringing Emma's wit and vulnerability to life, which is evident throughout the series.

Her portrayal is rich with emotional depth, drawing viewers into the world of a student who wanted to make a difference to a woman struggling with issues of love, career, and self-discovery.

'One Day' beautifully depicts the depth of human connection

A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)
A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)

The series is fundamentally about human connection and lost opportunities, expertly portrayed in the essence of two people who encounter life's realities.

This encounter lays the groundwork for a deep and lasting friendship as they negotiate the challenges of the real world.

Although their future was not at all what they had anticipated, it acts as an ideal reminder that this is the way things truly operate in the real world.

Things never turn out the way we anticipate; they always surprise us. This is what makes the series so profound.

At some point, we will be able to relate to Emma's suffering because we have all been there before, and we will also be able to relate to Dexter because we all understand what it's like to watch your life fall apart and ultimately have no choice but to accept your fate.

The series is a rightful ode to the beloved novel and deserves all the love and appreciation.

'One Day' is now streaming on Netflix.

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