In a dramatic twist of fate, Ella Purnell dares to defy expectations in the new Starz murder drama "Sweetpea." It's hard to believe that this talented actress could be portrayed as a wallflower, neglected and shunned by those around her, except for her ailing father. However, once you dive into the intricate narrative of "Sweetpea," you'll find a captivating tale filled with dark twists and emotional depth.

Purnell brings to life Rhiannon Lewis, an administrative assistant at a struggling UK newspaper. Here, she faces mistreatment from her boss, portrayed by Jeremy Swift of "Ted Lasso" fame. Rhiannon's existence is marred by loneliness, with past bullying haunting her in the form of Julia, played by Nicole Lecky, who re-enters her life at the most inopportune moment. With a strained sisterly relationship and a lack of friendships, Rhiannon's world is dominated by feelings of resentment and self-loathing.

As the series begins, Rhiannon introduces us to her "kill list," a haunting collection of names that reflect her inner turmoil and festering anger. While many might create such a list impulsively, for Rhiannon, it's a chilling precursor to actions that may unfold as the series progresses.

Ella Purnell’s performance is nothing short of stunning. Known for her roles in other acclaimed series like "Yellowjackets," where she played the ambitious Jackie, and Amazon’s thrilling "Fallout," she captivates audiences once again. Notably, she has lent her voice to Jinx in Netflix's acclaimed animated show "Arcane," showcasing her range as an actress.

Rhiannon’s character evokes profound sympathy; despite her destructive path, there’s a deep-seated vulnerability that Purnell encapsulates masterfully. Watching the indignities and challenges Rhiannon faces, you can't help but root for her—her painful journey evokes memories of another tragic character from the first season of "Fargo," Lester Nygaard. The emotional resonance is strong: unlike Lester, whose misfortune comes off as pitiable, Rhiannon’s plight compels an urge to reach out and show kindness.

The first episode leaves viewers with lingering questions about Rhiannon’s fate and what could have been had she encountered even a modicum of kindness. It’s a poignant reminder that we never fully grasp the struggles others face—a testament to the idea that compassion often requires less effort than cruelty.

Currently airing weekly on Starz/Paramount+, "Sweetpea" has garnered positive reviews on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, resonating with both critics and audiences. If you haven't tuned in yet, now's the time!

For fans of thrilling narratives, I highly recommend keeping an eye out for new series like "Teacup," where horror takes center stage—stay updated on all the latest must-watch content. Don't let "Sweetpea" slip through your fingers; it's a series you won't want to miss!