VICTORIAN ENGLAND IS HAVING a bit of a moment right now as a TV series backdrop. From Dickinson to The Irregulars, there’s plenty of period storytelling to go around. But the latest on the scene, HBO’s new 10-episode drama The Nevers, aims to mix it up by going epic with its narrative, like Charles Dickens going on a storytelling bender with George RR Martin.
Created by Joss Whedon – who left the series in November 2020 for personal reasons after writing or directing three episodes – The Nevers features many of his familiar signature elements, like strong female leads, the supernatural (X-Men-esque powers), a large ensemble cast, patriarchy-punching and a unique aesthetic (quasi-steampunk).