If you’re on the market for a new show that features a woman hero, sibling bonding, action scenes that make you go “woahhhh,” and a dash of magic, then Renegade Nell is for you. Premiering on Disney+ on March 29th, it tells the story of a quick-witted and courageous woman framed for murder. And in no time she becomes one of the most notorious outlaws in 18th century England due to the magical spirit called Billy who imbues her with powers unlike anyone has seen in that time. Starring Louisa Harland from Derry Girls as Nell, this show is one of the most promising series of the year. Here are five reasons why you should watch!
1. Nell isn’t the stereotypical “young hero.”
The best thing about Nell is that she isn’t the reluctant hero or the chosen one in the way that you would come to expect. She isn’t even a girl. She’s a woman who has done plenty even before this adventure starts. And the fact that she’s had all these life experiences changes how she handles things. She knows that there is something crazy going on with her and this newfound power is something special. And yes, a part of this adventure is proving that she didn’t commit a murder. But another part of it is just now taking the reins and using her powers to do the right thing. Not because anyone’s forcing her but because she chooses to. And that difference means the world for Renegade Nell.
2. The sibling relationships are the heart.
Don’t let the highwaywoman and sinister plot of Renegade Nell fool you when it comes to the heart of the show. The sibling relationship between Nell, Roxy, and George absolutely steals everything from start to finish. Because while Nell is standing on business and trying to prove her innocence, there’s zero doubt that she’s going to take care of her sisters. Not even for a second, did I come to doubt how much Nell cared for her siblings and that they loved her just as much in return. These three young women also complement each other. Nell is the muscle, Roxy is the brain, and George is the hope. Together they have made this show one of my unexpected favorites of 2024.
3. It’s giving cozy fantasy.
On the surface, this show seems so serious. But I feel like this show was giving me cozy fantasy with a twist for people who like shows like Bridgerton. Because you’ve got the era, the clothes, and the atmosphere of a period drama. But the trailer makes it seem like everything is so dark and sinister. It’s not. There are moments of levity throughout the entire show that ground everything and didn’t overwhelm me. There might have been a tear or two in some moments, but I always felt like everything would work itself out and that my favorites would work together to figure out how to save the day. That feeling of safety when it comes to a character’s journey, is rare and I held on to it with this show.
4. The action sequences are *chefs kiss*
When the action sequences start on Renegade Nell, Nell absolutely transforms. She gives herself completely to the knowledge that she has the ability to get things done and save the day. This confidence in her abilities combined with the music that plays and the stunning choreography, leads to some of my favorite action sequences since John Wick. And she does it all while looking super casual and comfortable. There’s no sleek and sexy like Hollywood has made us believe women can only fight in. No, Nell is kicking butt in an outfit that clearly makes people look at her differently because it’s men’s wear. But the way that she walks in it and fights in it, doesn’t speak of someone who is uncomfortable. This is who she is and this is how she fights. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.
5. Nell isn’t the only woman focused on.
The show itself has plenty of side characters who enrich this show and who get development. And that’s especially true for the women. Of course, you have Roxy, Nell’s sister. Without giving too much away, she finds out that she kind of has her own destiny in the vein of Nell’s and maybe there’s someone she can share it with. And on the completely opposite spectrum, there is Sofia Wilmot. She’s the daughter of the man that Nell is accused of killing. And in the trailer, they show her developing some super scary powers that liberate her and make her a force to be reckoned with. Wait until you meet Lady Eularia Moggerhangar too.
Renegade Nell premieres March 29, 2024 on Disney+.