A record-breaking Australian thriller just landed on ITV, and it is an aggravatingly addictive watch

Fake review based on episodes 1 and 2.

In the gripping online-dating thriller Fake, food journalist Birdie Bell asks: How do you personally define trust?

viewers will eventually discover that trust is something Birdie needs to consciously create. This requires a self-deception of sorts, going against her natural inclinations.

The show “Fake” has drawn inspiration from the popular book with the same title, written by Stephanie Wood. Upon its initial release in Australia, it set a new record for the largest first-week launch of a locally produced drama since Paramount+ made its debut there, surpassing previous streaming milestones.

The series unfolds the complex and gradually terrifying relationship between characters Birdie, portrayed by Asher Keddie, and Joe, played by David Wenham, over the course of eight episodes.

From the start, the hints are subtly unveiled, and Fake skillfully prolongs their revelation using a playful musical backdrop that softly plays as Birdie embarks on her initial date with Joe.

In that playful melody, there are notes that seem slightly out of tune, as if they were crafted to echo the blend of anxiety and anticipation that comes with online dating. The surge of doubt mingled with butterflies in my stomach certainly resonates as I open the app to reply to Joe’s messages, only to feel a strange discomfort before quickly searching him up online.

Even though our initial meeting was a bit rocky, his subtle manipulations are crafty enough to keep me engaged in this romantic journey.

In Wenham’s case, there’s an intriguing blend of sweetness and unease, much like the character Joe. He manages to make your skin tingle with discomfort, all while showering you with affection. His seemingly noble facade is almost perfect, except for a few subtle hints that betray his true nature.

Joe’s affections are wrapped in an attractive package, but they still give you the shivers. He’s persistent, yet not overbearing, and romantic, yet sometimes overwhelming. His persona is full of contrasts, which makes Birdie question her feelings time and again, leading to a cycle of self-doubt.

Here, Keddie captivates the audience, eliciting compassion as she portrays the vulnerable, underloved character of Birdie, who grapples with insecurity.

In her professional life, Birdie exhibits assertiveness and ambition. However, in her personal relationships, she tends to suppress these qualities, seeking validation and approval instead. Over time, Birdie gradually adopts more of Joe’s desires and emotions, causing one to question who is truly shaping her feelings.

In a thought-provoking manner, Fake delves deep into the complexities of a woman’s journey with love, spanning multiple generations. This exploration is made clear not only by Birdie’s storyline with Joe, but also through her enlightening dialogues with her mother and a young girl in her friend’s circle.

These instances suggest troublesome and deeply rooted teachings, some of which may be instilled as early as in our childhood; idealized notions of love that can become distorted and harmful as we grow into adults when taken out of context.

Instead of being a relaxing, feel-good show, “Fake” is far from it. It will make you frustrated for Birdie and leave you with a lasting sense of empathy.

Just as Joe’s story captivates subtly, so does this one. You’ll find yourself easily engrossed, anticipating an exciting journey ahead.

Fake will stream on ITVX from 27 April, and air weekly on ITV1 on Saturday evenings from 3 May.

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2025-04-28 10:19