Renegade Nell (TV Series 2024– ) Poster

(2024– )

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8/10
Lighten Up
sashaiancu-0779619 April 2024
Some of you need to learn how to have fun and not take everything so seriously. I swear some people are so uptight with their reviews. I thought this show so far (I'm three episodes in) is lighthearted and fun. The comedic writing is good, the storyline/plot is entertaining so far and I like Nell and most of the cast. It's fun natured and clearly meant to be entertaining and lighthearted and good fun. You're not watching a freaking documentary for the love of God, so if you expect it to be perfectly accurate to the time period and history, watch something else. This clearly isn't for you. It's fun and it's not meant to be watched as a film snob or to be taken quite so seriously, I thought that was pretty evident from the very first episode...Some of you didn't get the memo clearly.
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7/10
Worth watching
NatashaWM17 April 2024
The first three episodes of the show are quite dark and serious in comparison to the rest of season 1. There are themes such as violence against women and children resulting in injury, murder and sexual harassment of a (presumed) minor (no sexual harassment takes place on screen). Episodes 4-8 are slightly lighter in tone, and I believe this is so they can keep the rating a 12+.

Nell is a fantastic character and I can only applaud the actress for her talent. Her sisters, Rassalas and Isambard Tulley are equally wonderful, and the character of Billy Blind grounds the fantasy theme that underpins the entire plot.

Some reviewers have complained about the use of an ethnically diverse cast for a show set in the 1700's, but this is a fantasy show which displays magic and magical creatures as real. The realities of real life in the 1700's are both irrelevant and unnecessary, in a plot that is clearly divorced from real history. Anyone looking to this show to provide real historical context is (in my opinion) crazy.

My criticism of the show is based on the last two episodes. I was a little disappointed by episode 7, as Nell's fight scene wasn't taken in the direction I was expecting. Episode 8 was even more disappointing. I think the show left too many character arcs and plot points to be concluded within the final episode. There's too much jumping around between characters, most of whom are facing separate (if overlapping) problems. I was surprised and disappointed, that the central villains of the show were not dealt with how I expected (or wanted) them to be, though they all did face consequences in different ways. Nell and her family do get a happy ending, so it's worth watching for that alone. Overall it's a decently entertaining show, that I didn't find difficult to watch, and would recommend to others.

There are a few musical numbers in the later episodes of the season, and there's a good soundtrack throughout, in particular Nell's fight song. Whoever created that should be very proud of themselves.
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7/10
Either you are really gonna like it ... or you ain't
A_Different_Drummer31 March 2024
Can we speak plainly? When the creators of a series decide to take historical fiction, historical fantasy, and the supernatural -- and throw the entire lot into a Ninja blender set on HI, the result is not going to please everyone. On the other hand, this is entertainment we are talking about, not a medical school entrance exam. So, depending on the viewer, it either works. Or it doesn't. Think of shows like WEDNESDAY or XENA WARRIOR PRINCESS. Good production values, good acting, good writing. Now it is entirely up to you. ((Designated "IMDb Top Reviewer." Please check out my list "167+ Nearly-Perfect Movies (with the occasional Anime or TV miniseries) you can/should see again and again (1932 to the present))
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9/10
Wonderful Show!
dieter-531306 April 2024
What a celebration!

Renegade Nell was absolute fun, action flavored with fantasy and a wonderful Luisa Harland (better known as Orla from the Derry Girls).

Her Irish accent tops it all, brilliant! But also the other characters, e.g. Florence Keen as George. Everything on top!

Exciting, funny, fantastic, hardly anything is missing. This series is different than anything I've seen before. The Mystery Part is awesome and fits wonderful into the Show. It ist not to much, the charcters are still normal persons. It is so much fun. Give it a try and have a lot of fun!

I'm looking forward to a second season!
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So far, tremendous
rmwhitener30 March 2024
It feels very much like something from Joss Whedon, music, characters, low key wry humor. I am hoping it continues. Other reviews I read seemed unfavorable for the very reasons I have sited. People who watch a lot of reality shows probably would not appreciate it for the very reasons that I do. Clever, witty, and twists unexpected. The music is rousing and appropriate. I actually want to watch it, not just putting it on in the background while I ride my Peloton or clip coupons. I do not know any of the principle cast, but all seem skilled. I have gotten old. No longer content to waste the time I have left watching dreck. I am very hopeful rhe rest of the season is as entertaining.
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9/10
🖤💜🖤 The Story and Humor
kathymyrealestate7 April 2024
This series is very well produced and acted! Actually made my Mom put her Solitaire game on her phone down! (I have created a tech monster at 85 y. O. She is like a teenager with her phone...but I digress). The characters are great. The actors are fabulous! So many favorite characters with this series. Nell's character has hints of Gentleman Hack (another great show that unfortunately is no more). This series is also casted very well, in my opinion! Unexpectedly funny, if you actually pay attention. We are binge watching it today! Three more episodes to go. There better be a second season!! I can't imagine Disney not doing so!
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6/10
~Fresh~ Stale
aribrink30 March 2024
Initial score: 8 Just two episodes in and and I find this series extremely good. Acting, story and action scenes are all well done.

I love the setting and the fact that it mixes period drama and fantasy. The leading actress is well cast which is something rare these days. Thank God not another Instagram plastic with duck lips but a real person, believable for that day and age.

Also great work on the villains of the story. Well written, not two dimensional and with appropriate menace and self conflict.

I hope it keeps that standards of the first episodes. I will update my rating, up or down accordingly as I watch more. But from what I've seen it most probably go up.

EDIT: well, that was unfortunate. It seems the creators, writers, directors had only two good episodes in them. The rest 6 are plagued by bad writing, no action scenes and that of low quality, unfocused plot. It even has a cruella de vil character and a queen that obviously lives in a stable and no means to protect her. Awful.
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10/10
Oi, just Watch it!!
kazzikag2 April 2024
If you're looking for a little bit of light hearted fun with a fantastic female lead kicking some pompous butt (Louisa Is a fantastic Heroin and superbly bought Nell to life). With a strong supporting cast, a touch of magic here and there and nothing too serious then look no further. I've give this review 10 stars because for 8 wonderful episodes and there really is not enough and they go by too quickly, I was truly entertained. If you go into this series knowing your in for a fun ride and don't take anything too serious then for a few hours you are going to sit back relax and forget the world outside and enjoy a strong female and her family getting her own back on some wrong doers.
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6/10
Some good and some bad
mluinstra30 March 2024
Greetings from the other side. It's an interesting idea, Nell having a spirit entity enter her when she's in trouble, making her almost invincible.

I did have trouble with some things, such as being completely pulled from the story when they show a black woman made up to be a Lady in the early 1700s England. She's sitting there on the couch having tea, surrounded by white women of high standing. Disney trying to revise history again. I have no problem with diversity, but stop trying to rewrite history.

The young black guy that ends up travelllng with them looks like he is from our time period. He does not look or sound like he belongs in the 1700s.

Nell and many other characters are hard to understand. The accent they are using makes 30-35% of what they say unintelligible. I had to put on subtitles to understand them.

I'm also not a big fan of Nell's siblings being dragged around with her, especially the young one. I don't know why they insists on putting little kids into shows like this, as they usually end up being kidnapped so the main character must rescue them, or do what the bad guy says or he will kill them.

The show is interesting, and I've watched 4 episodes thus far, and I'm curious enough to watch the remaining 4.
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10/10
Amazing Fight Scenes & Just a little Magic
j_blake-472493 April 2024
How is it that this British series can produce these amazing fluid, entertaining fight scenes that look like Jackie Chan has created them.... I've just watched Primes 'Road House' remake this week with UFCs Connor McGregor and they completely miss the mark, Of all their budget and advertising and then Renagade Nell just knocks it out of the park.

Really impressed with this series and hope there is another, the effects, the accents, the locations... it reminds me of the series Gentleman Jack but better because it has magic. Loved it all. I enjoyed the humour throughout as Nell builds new relationships with the different characters, especially the back and forth with Tully. I will recommend it to anyone who likes a series with a little magic.
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7/10
Jack Sparrow as a woman
DLochner19 April 2024
Jack Sparrow as a woman. We are in the 18th century in England - a great time, and as for the costumes, you immediately feel transported back to Pirates of the Caribbean. The series is very entertaining from minute one, has a lot of humor and action. Everything one needs, plus there are fantastic elements. That also makes it comparable to Pirates of the Caribbean.

The great thing is that Louisa Harland, as the main character, has an equally formidable opponent in Frank Dillane. A very well-filmed series, with a strong female lead and a great soundtrack. Absolutely worth watching and easy entertainment.
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9/10
Happily suprised by how good it is.
zolaphoenix22 April 2024
I noticed the show when I was browsing through the disney+ app while bored. It's not the usual type of show I watch but I decided to give it a try. I'm definitely glad I did! The show is such fun! It has everything you could want. Action, comedy, drama, great acting and quite a compelling story. I was even suprised that I actually liked most of the characters, definitely thanks to the talented actors and actresses who portray them. The show was so good that I binge watched it all in just two sittings and was left wanting more. I really hope it gets another season so I can see more of the characters and see how there story ends.
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6/10
It's.. Not bad.
Kam3lion30 March 2024
It was a nice enough watch, well written humour, witty, fresh and despite alot of.. Strange.. Choices. It felt like it could be great! But then it really wasnt.

So many character breaking bits, plotholes, following real logic on some points but not others - although on the same subjects?! Very confusing.

And.. random musical bits?!?!

It overall feels like something from a talented young teenage writer. Not yet mature enough to grasp their own mistakes but talented enough for a great idea and a general good attempt! -Now I am just wondering why no one helped to edit it, so it could BE GREAT instead of this.. Nice try. Sadly.
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4/10
Bland
simbiat30 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Characters here feel quite bland, and I think I can already predict some "plot twists" down the line. Even though, at this point the story does not really know where it goes.

But let's start with the characters. They are completely uninteresting and villains are cliched. The latter part could be tolerable, if the main character was unique, but... She's not. It is obvious, that creators wanted to show "a strong woman", but not only did they go for a literal definition, but they make her strong only if a magic bug flies into her mouth. And there permanently, and takes a couple of seconds to get inside, too (which, actually, can be an interesting "flaw" of the power).

Problem is, Nell is completely average without that bug. There is nothing outstanding about her. And I am not saying she needs to be "special", but she needs to have some character. For some reason I was reminded about Aladdin while watching this, and Aladdin had character even before the lamp. He was not just a thief, but one with conscious, and desire to help others. It was shown pretty early in the story (and probably most adaptations, including Disney's). Nell, on the other hand, tries to act spunky and sometimes cocky even, but... Only because she felt a surge of power. Again, not a bad thing by itself (Spider-Man, anyone?), but she is not showing any level of humility, even though the times, in which the show is set kind of demand it.

Speaking of times: this show is promoted as "historical fiction". The "fiction" is a given, considering magical bugs (ok, inclusive fairies), but "historic"... It's supposed to be 18th century, England, right? Well, I was not entirely sure, so googled this: black men were in services and usually as slaves at the times. I am pretty sure, that I saw a few "nobles" in this show, who were black men. This alone means that this will not be historically accurate to the society of that time. Maybe beside clothes and (sometimes forced) "lower standing" of women.

But again, this can be more "fiction", than "historic", and it has good sounding pirate-like tunes, so maybe the story can somehow redeem itself? Yeah, unlikely. The bug seems to not even know, why he is protecting Nell, and I am pretty sure he is, actually, supposed to be protecting Roxy, cause that girl has the most character (and character development) than anyone. It will also turn out, that the black "nobleman" is part of some secret order, that has plotted all this in one way or another. But what's most obvious: Sofia, sister of "the villain" will rebel against her brother and join the good course, but then will also forgive him, because he was actually manipulated and hypnotized and all that.

So... I do not know. This is just... Uninspiring. It may be good for providing you some background noise, but other than that, I'd suggest to skip it.
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10/10
If you want historical accuracy, watch the history channel
shensley-1637711 April 2024
I had low expectations going into this series and frankly, I wasn't really planning on liking it as much as I did. I LOVED this series. I keep seeing reviews about historical accuracy and I really have to emphasize - if you want the accuracy, watch a documentary. This is supposed to be a fun fantasy series and to me, it achieved that goal. Pure delight. Really wanted to give Thomas a good punch but I think that speaks more to the actor's ability to make that character "real" so kudos to him. I sincerely hope Disney continues the series or at least just does another season to see how these characters can expand and grow.
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9/10
Harland and Dillane Shine
jack-the-lad3473630 March 2024
Renegade Nell delivers an unforgettable experience, largely due to the exceptional performances by Louisa Harland and Frank Dillane, supported by a great full cast.

Harland's portrayal of Nell is both fierce and vulnerable, capturing the essence of the character with nuance and depth. Showcasing her versatility as an actress, making Nell a multi-dimensional and relatable protagonist

Dillane's charismatic presence as the antagonist adds a thrilling dynamic to the narrative. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, elevating the story to new heights. A must-watch for their outstanding performances alone.
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6/10
Very nice family series, but why the historical inaccuracy?
info-1598931 March 2024
Having watched episode one with my family I can testify that this is a nice and enjoyable series. I like the supernatural, magic touch that (literally) empowers the main character in her struggle to find justice in a male dominated time.

However, knowing that the story takes place in England in the early 1700's (1704 to be correct). We all are taught in history lessons that these were times that were in many ways completely different, not to mention full of inequalities: between classes, between men & women and based uon heritage. The 18th century was first and foremost a time when white people exploited and enslaved large numbers of African people, especially in Western Europe and America. In this series this terrible social crime is completely disregarded, as it never even happened. People of African heritage are presented in prominent social roles we all might have wanted them to have: ladies, magistrates, high class people regarded as socially equal to their white contemporaries.

Okay, I fully understand this is a family show, suitable for all ages. But even so, according to me the writers could have found ways to remain historically accurate in this respect and still give people of different class and race their dignity. I believe that it should have been their obligation for future generations!
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10/10
Love it
herbeautifulmuse1 April 2024
Thank you Disney finally a good show , we bench watch this for two nights and can't wait for next season. It has a combo of everything but it does balance well. The character you fall in love with and the story keeps your attention drawn in , definitely for the whole family. I felt like a had a spark of pirates of the Caribbean and if they get good writers definitely a show with a HUGE potential for season 2 !!!def recommend it . Disney keep the seasons coming in this new era people are watching more tv and series, I think this is a little mind of gold if you ask me .... Can't wait for season 2 !
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10/10
Quite impressed so far! ***UPDATED***
quidnunq29 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I don't usually get very excited whenever Disney comes up with a new series. Especially in this genre. It usually just turns out to be too polished and too "well behaved". But so far Renegade Nell is surprisingly good! It definitely has been able to keep my attention for the first 3 episodes. The character development seems to be going well and the storyline for sure isn't predictable. It does have that (slight) Disney feeling to it, but not in a bad way. To me this show definitely is a major step in the right direction, because I've been thinking about canceling my subscription for a while now. If they continue to make more shows at this level, I might just decide not to do that. Obviously I haven't watched the entire show yet, but once I'm finished I will give this review an honest update.

***UPDATE***

I just finished the last episode and I definitely loved it all. Although the story seemed to be completed, I wouldn't mind if they came up with another season! The lead actress is perfect in the role of Nell. She's witty, sharp and sarcastic, but at the same time fair and caring, which is kinda refreshing for a female lead in a story like this. The story may not be as deep and dramatic like - for example - Game of Thrones, but it's quirky, entertaining and executed well enough to get a high rating from me nonetheless. You just can't compare this series with the "big masterpieces", because the target audience for this series is completely different. If you solely prefer dark fantasy with a lot of action, blood and gore, this series will probably disappoint you. But if you also enjoy lighthearted fantasy and British humor in general, you're probably gonna like this. I don't really have any negative remarks. The only thing that SLIGHTLY bothers me, is the lack of backstory in some elements. Like, where did Billy come from? What's up with Roxy's magic? Does George also have a certain gift? And a little more insight on Captain Jackson and the history Nell had with him would've been nice. But if there's gonna be another season, they might still get into some of that. I honestly hope they will, because that would give me a solid reason not to cancel my Disney+ subscription!
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10/10
Great show with a missed opportunity at naming!
bs-6252529 April 2024
I was browsing through things on Disney + and nothing was looking appealing. So I took a flyer on this show...

What a surprise! It was amazing, witty, fun, with just a smidge of history which was refreshing. I loved that the main character was not perfect. I really enjoyed the supporting cast and how they all grew together. I enjoyed the subtle humor that was introduced which changed it from the typical grimdark plots that dominate this kind of genre.

I would love to see another season of this, even if I don't expect it. It was also nice of the producers to have a self contained season. To many shows leave cliffhangers and then never get renewed. Nice that you can watch this one, be satisfied, and hope for more.

The only shame is that they should have called the show: "Rebel Nell". Sadly, the art of the Pun has died.
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7/10
Surprisingly good!
raf_dcs12 April 2024
I first saw the trailer, it seemed fun and I put it on my watchlist. Then I saw the poster, I didn't put two and two together and was immediately put off.

I finally gave it a shot when I saw the good reviews and to my surprise it is a good show, it's fun, fast paced, there are cute moments, funny moments and it's at times very endearing.

Was it perfect? No. Probably because it's a Disney show.

Sometimes it felt superficial, there was too much action and not enough character exploration, the show threw information at us and just expected the viewer to accept it. I really wished more Eularia, she was amazing in it, I wish there was a real talk between Nell and Sofia. And I really wished Nell had taken the time to talk to other people instead of barging in everywhere, like ai want to know what happened to the kids in the prison!

Anyway, to end on a good note, the music was amazing! Bravo to whoever put it together!
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2/10
Amateur hour
ilya-belkin31 March 2024
I'll be brief.

Cast: so and so, it is really unclear what would be a good cast for a story that can't hold on its seems.

Plot: it's not that there are holes in it, it's just few threads and thin bits on a background of one big hole. There is no much logic in what characters do, no substantial motives.

The world itself is so far-fetched and not believable.

Dialogues: mostly not funny (as they were supposed to be) and overall irrelevant. Everyone speaks in some made-up generic "period" language straight out of the American writers' heads, commoners and noblemen alike.

Fight scenes and stunts: pure Bollywood, and low-budget at that.

Overall: something made so poorly thate leaves you irritated rather than entertained.
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10/10
Great Entertainment
Andu00714 April 2024
I saw a clip of this while Adrian Lester was being interviewed to promote it on a tv programme, it looked good, so I thought I'd give it a go.

I'm so glad I did, it's set in the 1700s but don't get hooked up with historical accuracy, it's fiction & take it for what it is.

It's colourful, quirky, funny with lots of magical action & adventure, with a swashbuckling soundtrack.

Apparently the lead actress is in Derry Girls, I've not seen the series but I've heard plenty, so I will now as she is brilliant in this!

Good actors & great characters, I absolutely loved it, hopefully there will be another series.
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9/10
Fun and great action
fgbookham5 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Pixies, Devil horsemen, real history with Jacobites overthrowing Royalty in favor ofJames 111 has some genuine truth to it. Being a Scot, I got quite a kick out of the series.

With the two main actors, the heroine from Derry Girls and the pixie from Ted Lasso, Renegade Nell is a great family series! Sally Wainwright has hit it out of the park again. I hope the series gets a second season. The action, wit and supernatural effects were terrific! A lot of Irish and Scottish mysticism makes the series one to watch. Disney never fails to produce family fair. If you like Pirates of the Caribbean, I'm sure you'd like Renegade Nell.
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8/10
Entertaining
barrymw7 April 2024
A fantastical tale not to be taken too seriously, loosely structured around a real historical story. However, this is entirely fiction and should be seen as such, unlike some reviews on here. The scripts are tight and the acting consistently high from all with some wonderfully over the top incidental characters to lighten the tone.

Every episode tells a story within a story and keeps moving along at a good pace to keep you entertained and wanting more, with no weak episodes. The whole series wraps up nicely which is a refreshing change these days when most series end with a part of the story untold.

Recommended for when you want a little bit of escapism for your entertainment.
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