Equinox

Equinox is a Scandinavian supernatural thriller television series inspired by the acclaimed Danish podcast of the same name. It's a unique blend of mystery, suspense, and intricate storytelling that takes the viewers on a captivating journey. The show is set in Copenhagen, Denmark, and creates a chilling atmosphere that reflects its Nordic roots. It is a Netflix original, a part of their diverse global catalogue. The show first premiered in 2020, and has been since gaining attention for its layered narrative and spine-tingling mystery.

The story of Equinox revolves around a young radio journalist named Astrid, who becomes enveloped in a haunting unsolved mystery that's tied directly to her past. Astrid is a resilient and determined protagonist, constantly searching for the truth no matter how perilous the path gets. She’s the heart of the narrative, driving the plot forward with her relentless pursuit of the truth.

The series unravels in two parallel timelines – one in 1999 when Astrid was a little girl, and another in 2020. In 1999, Astrid experienced a traumatic incident when her older sister Ida and her entire graduating class mysteriously vanished during a school trip. While some bodies were discovered, including Ida's, many remained missing. Traumatized by this event, Astrid had a breakdown and developed selective amnesia – she could not recall the events surrounding her sister's disappearance.

In 2020, Astrid is working as a successful radio host in Copenhagen. When she receives an unexpected call during one of her shows from someone connected to the 1999 incident, it forces her to confront her past. The call triggers disturbing visions and memories, leading Astrid to question what really happened that day. Thus, she embarks on a personal mission to uncover the truth about her sister's eerie disappearance. The series traces Astrid's journey, as she delves into her memories and uncovers a shocking conspiracy.

Equinox weaves supernatural elements into the story fabric seamlessly. From strange lunar occurrences to pagan folklore, the narrative is filled with supernatural undertones that amplify the overall suspense. The theory of a parallel universe also plays a significant role in the series, adding an extra layer of complexity. Moreover, the mysterious and eerie Equinox Stone – believed to be the key to the other world - forms the core of the series' supernatural construct.

The show's creators masterfully blend these elements with the narrative's prosaic elements, resulting in a unique concoction of real-world drama and fantastical elements. The show strikes a chord with the viewers by its tantalizing manner of revealing the hidden secrets, piece by piece, unveiling a complex web of deception, folklore, and hidden realities.

One of the show's prime strengths is its atmospheric cinematography. Equinox is visually striking, filled with rich symbolism and imagery painting an eerie, unsettling picture of a world that's a blend of reality and fantasy. The use of a cool, almost monochromatic palette adds to the sense of desolation and amplifies the moody, unsettling tone of the series.

The show's Nordic setting lends an air of authenticity to the narrative, adding to its chilling atmosphere. The eerie landscapes, the cold, distant forests, and the moody backgrounds create a sense of unease, desolation, and isolation – an almost otherworldly ambiance that not only complements but also heightens the drama unfolding on the screen.

The storytelling is intense and unhurried, favoring slow-burn suspense over fast-paced action. The plot meticulously uncovers secrets, maintaining a consistent rhythm that keeps viewers engaged and invested in Astrid's quest. The writing and direction are proficient, offering a well-executed, suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Equinox boasts a highly skilled Danish cast, who provide compelling performances that draw the viewer into this mysterious world. It extensively explores the effects of trauma, family dynamics, and the quest for truth, providing the characters with ample opportunity to showcase their acting prowess. They breathe life into their characters, delivering nuanced performances that pull at viewer’s emotional strings.

In summary, Equinox is a compelling supernatural thriller, filled with mystery and suspense. Its riveting plot, atmospheric visuals, and top-notch performances do a brilliant job of keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, exploring dark secrets of the past and learning about the ambiguous demarcation between innocent childhood memories and harsh adult realities.