There is nothing quite like a biopic. Promising dramatised tales of some of the most talked-about moments in history and makeovers of some of your favourite actors as they step into the shoes of beloved, or controversial, societal figures, there really is no telling what they may bring. And so, when the news broke that Lily James and Sebastian Stan were going to star in a show set to detail the absurd story behind Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson, responsible for the birth of the celebrity sex tape, the internet chatter and excitable anticipation was understandable. And now, with the primary episodes of the season streaming on Disney+, we thought it only fair that we share our thoughts on the release.
So, without further ado, head below to read our review of episode one of Pam & Tammy…
What: Episode one stands as the perfect set-up for what is sure to be a story as unimaginable as the characters it follows. With the show setting in on a carpenter, Rand Gauthier, contracted to craft an overly-excessive bedroom for the infamous Mötley Crüe rocker, Tommy Lee, the power dynamics of the show are quickly laid out as the star’s unapologetic and quite frankly, rude, demeanour becomes apparent. And, after a falling out over money, which leaves the already debt-ridden workers penniless, Rand sets out on a mission to get revenge, which ends with him breaking into the home of Tommy and his equally-as-famous wife, Pamela Anderson, and emerging with a safe full of riches. After he pays off his debuts with the money gained from selling his illicit possessions, Seth Rogan’s character stumbles across a tape, sure to turn the lives of everyone involved on their heads. Ending on the scene of Rand taking the mysterious tape to his old boss, friend and porn director, the pair realise the magnitude of the thing they have just uncovered: one of the first-ever celebrity sex tapes.
Where: Set in the sun-soaked hills of 90s LA, we are treated to the juxtaposing scenes of the hedonistic haven that is Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson’s mansion and the run-down abode of Rand, furthering the wordless rhetoric the show boasts, focusing on the disparities between the wealthy and poor, powerful and seemingly powerless.
Star of the show: Episode one belongs to Seth Rogan. While Sebastian Stan did a stellar job of portraying the erratic enigma that is Tommy Lee, who has been set up to be an antagonist sure to have us torn between feelings of toxic adoration and dismay, Seth Rogan masterfully brings us into his character’s world, as we follow him on his revenge-fueled escapades and a soul-baring tour of his tragic backstory.
Who to watch it with: This series is clearly one for the girls. With sex very much a key theme of the series and the first episode coming equipped with a warning regarding adult themes and nudity, it is one you may want to keep off of the living room screens in your parent’s house. Alternatively, this could be a fun Valentine’s Day binge-watch for you and your significant other.
Stand out scene: It is hard to pinpoint a specific standout scene from the first episode as it can be argued that the full hour-long display is the very necessary introduction to what is sure to be an explosive series. But, an intense scene featuring a gun-wielding Tommy Lee confronting the disgruntled Rand is particularly poignant and sure to have viewers on the edge of their seats.
Final thoughts: While a show like this has the potential to head straight towards bad reviews and backlash, upon the first watch, we believe that we are set to get our first fully formed insight into an event that shook the world, both entertaining and authentic in nature. Also, shout out to Lily, Sebastian and Seth, who are all unrecognisable in both appearance and demeanour throughout.
Wonderland Review: 4/5