LOCKE & KEY SEASON 1: A Safe Yet Fun Dive Into A House Of Magic

When I first heard that Netflix was adapting Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodríguez‘s Locke & Key, I was elated. What I visualized wasn’t exactly how it came to fruition, but the streaming service still managed to create an eventful ride.

One of the things that always stood out to me about the series (and Hill is Stephen King’s son after all, so it shouldn’t be surprising – nor should my interest) was the disturbing and dark imagery and direction. Even in the graphic novel context, it jumped out at you, lingering and creeping into your psyche. The concept is one that provides a storyteller an endless barrage of potential plot diversions and intriguing ideas, so: ripe for a series.

Unlocking The Puzzle

We’re talking about the Locke house, of course, and those who bare the name (and often those who are close to the family) gain the extraordinary, but important, honor of being responsible for the keys. There are some who will do anything to get their hands on them, with less than wholesome intentions. What do the keys do? Well, a lot. From turning you into a ghost, changing your appearance, to opening up your brain… it’s a creative fortress of magic. The story is bursting with a variety of avenues it could take and in book form, takes advantage of this, to create a long list of fascinating characters and journeys.

The show makes it a smaller ordeal, which narratively makes sense, but it also chooses to keep the portrayal more family-friendly. This has the end result of feeling more Riverdale, rather than something as haunting as the source material warrants.  That’s not to dismiss the gravity of the circumstances enclosed or its talent in capturing some, because it is there. By the end of the season 1’s 10 episodes, I was enjoying myself, and I definitely am anxious for season 2.

One of the benefits of this story is that it doesn’t revolve on just one character unlocking the magical abilities of this family “legacy.” Here, we meet the Locke family, fresh off the loss and murder of their father. Of course, it ties back to the keys, but that’s divulged over the season. They learn as we do. Youngest, Bode (Jackson Robert Scott), middle child Kinsey (Emilia Jones) and eldest Tyler (Connor Jessup), move with their mother Nina (Darby Stanchfield) across the country to their family estate.

As you expect, they’re suffering, and the family’s unsettled, grieving status makes it an uncomfortable landing in Massachusetts. Not long after they arrive, Bode discovers the “echo,” a woman in the well house, who becomes a very big player in the season. Her motives aren’t for his benefit, but of course, he’s eager to learn and help, especially when he first discovers the wonder of the keys.

To Use Or Not To Use?

Each of the members of the household have their own takes and agendas when it comes to the keys. The youngest is intrigued by the unimaginable possibilities of them. As only a child often can, he relishes in the discovery. Kinsey and Tyler, while they should be more mature in their usage, experiment with how they can have an effect on their environments, which involves inviting others into their strange secret. Some of these include their love interests, and other students from school. It begs the question though, what would you do? It’s hard to separate self-interest from logic sometimes, and when a strange and powerful magic gets thrown into the mix… all bets are off.

Meanwhile, for whatever reason, adults have a difficult time remembering them. Specifically their mother Nina which means they are mostly on their own. Though, she does have her own suspicions about certain things, especially regarding her husband and the group of teens he spent time with. One in particular, Ellie (Sherri Saum) she becomes close with, and this begins another mystery to unravel (and this season only starts the spool spinning).

Their uncle Duncan (Aaron Ashmore) grew up in the home, but doesn’t remember anything either. Without spoiling, the reason here is different. There’s a lot that I think should be uncovered by watching, so I won’t go into too many of the details. What’s interesting about Locke & Key is that is keeps you intrigued by giving small amounts away at a time.

There is still so much left to be discovered, so many histories and lore to expand upon, that make it inviting. This small beginning might develop into a larger and darker story later, so I’m hopeful. Were they holding back from using too much so we can look forward? Perhaps, but thus lies the challenge of adaptation, and creators Meredith Averill, Aron Eli Coleite, and Carlton Cuse were still successful.

I’m really happy with the casting on all fronts, with the Locke’s and their friends quite suited for what was required to convey the challenge of adolescence, grief and the allure and conflict of unexpected power. The murder of their father has had an effect on them all, in masks of blame and regret, and it’s handled in believable and affecting fashion. There are a lot of adults, but this show really balances on the kids shoulders, and they carry it.

Our villain, Dodge (Laysla De Oliveira) is also devious and allusive enough to always remain at the edge of the picture, blurring the series with a formidable threat, but not close enough to be the main focal point. After all, this is more than just this character, there is a malevolent driving force that hasn’t truly been divulged.

As a lot of the story blends enchantment into this family’s grief, it’s imperative to point out that the show renders this well. The special effects aren’t too flashy, and snap into place within the confines of the show and the terrific production design.

Conclusion: Locke & Key Season 1

Season one of Locke & Key gives us a feasible starting point for what could be a flourishing new fantasy series. Does it hit every mark? No. Do I wish it took more risks? Yes. But, it’s bound to be entertaining for most viewers, incur curiosity, and, at the very least – sustain with its well-constructed mix of childhood fun and horror.

Locke & Key is currently streaming on Netflix.

What did you think? Are you hooked or did it leave you unsatisfied? Let us know in the comments below!