Alfonso Cuarón, known for his cinematic portrayal of the ocean as a symbol of emotional extremes, turns his attention to the small screen with the Apple TV+ series “Disclaimer.” The renowned Mexican director, recognized for hits like “Children of Men,” “Gravity,” and “Roma,” takes on the full creative control of this series, adapting it from Renée Knight’s 2015 novel. The narrative revolves around conflicting accounts surrounding the tragic drowning of a young man on an Italian beach, a setting ripe for Cuarón’s signature visual storytelling.
However, “Disclaimer” diverges from Cuarón’s typical style, presenting a dialogue-heavy drama centered on themes of grief, self-deception, and narrative construction, rather than the grand spectacles often associated with his work. The transition from book to screen reveals challenges, particularly in pacing and structure, compounded by the inclusion of prominent actors such as Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline. What begins as a confusing experience ultimately concludes with a twist that feels diminished due to the lengthy buildup.
In “Disclaimer,” Blanchett stars as Catherine Ravenscroft, a renowned documentarian grappling with an unsettling past. Her life is turned upside down when she receives a self-published novel titled “The Perfect Stranger,” which suggests her seemingly perfect facade may be built on deception. The book’s disclaimer insinuates a connection to her life.
The narrative intertwines the present, where Stephen Brigstocke (played by Kline) seeks revenge after losing his job and wife to cancer, and flashbacks that reveal his connection to the tragic circumstances surrounding Catherine. Cuarón collaborates with cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki to create visually stunning scenes that juxtapose Catherine’s glamorous life with Stephen’s struggles.
While Kline’s performance hints at a comedic undertone, the series focuses more on Catherine’s psychological unraveling. Blanchett’s portrayal often evokes elements seen in her previous roles, though the reliance on excessive narration and delayed character revelations weakens her impact. By the time Catherine asserts the need for her voice to be heard, the revelations about her past feel predictable rather than suspenseful, frustrating viewers expecting a deeper exploration of the narrative.
As “Disclaimer” unfolds, it aims for feminist commentary through its examination of women’s perspectives. Still, it falters in execution, relying on clichéd elements that undermine its deeper themes. Although Cuarón succeeds in creating striking visuals, he struggles to infuse the series with the necessary coherence to convey its message effectively.
The first two episodes of “Disclaimer” are currently available for streaming on Apple TV+, with new episodes scheduled for release each Friday.