Everything She Ever Wanted

Everything She Ever Wanted is a captivating miniseries from 2009, which is based on the book of the same name by author Ann Rule. This dramatic and suspenseful series, directed by Peter Svatek, unfolds over two exciting parts that run for approximately four hours in total. The series features the experienced acting talents of stars like Gina Gershon, Ryan McPartlin, Victor Garber, and Rachel Blanchard.

The storyline follows the trials and tribulations of Pat Allanson, an attractive middle-aged woman who has learned that charm and manipulation can get her almost everything she desires. Pat is played brilliantly by Gina Gershon, who skilfully portrays a character who can be both charming and chilling in her quest to attain status, wealth, and the perfect life. And her meet-cute with Tom Allanson, played by Ryan McPartlin, seems to further reinforce her conviction that she can have it all. High on the list of Pat's desires is a wealthy, rudderless heir, Tom Allanson, whom Pat sees as her ticket to the privileged life she craves.

Set in the Southern United States, this miniseries authentically captures the charm and hospitality of Southern life while juxtaposing it against the darker side of manipulation, deceit, and betrayal. After a whirlwind courtship, Tom marries Pat, unwittingly becoming a pawn in her game of unabashed ambition and ruthless pursuit of wealth.

Victor Garber portrays Tom's estranged father, Walter, a character who is initially blinded by Pat's surface charm but gradually becomes suspicious of her intentions. Rachel Blanchard plays the role of the physically beautiful but inwardly devious Jennifer, another player in this tense drama.

Throughout the series, viewers are carried along a swelling tide of suspicion, betrayal, and manipulation as various characters rise to confront Pat, causing the fragile facade of her perfect life to start crumbling. The plot weaves in elements of crime and mystery as Pat’s relentless hunger for perfection begins to backfire, and her past actions start catching up, threatening the peace and harmony of her controlled life.

What ensues is a tense family drama with Pat Allanson at the center, spinning a web of manipulation that seems to hold everyone under her sway. As a viewer, you are swept along the currents of intrigue, suspense, and high drama, which make this miniseries an enticing watch. The series delves into some deep explorations of human characteristics such as greed, ambition, deception, and the extents a person can go to keep hold of what they think they possess.

The performances in Everything She Ever Wanted are remarkably compelling, particularly from Gina Gershon, who skilfully uses her role to perfectly portray the complexities of a character shouldering multiple shades – charm, ruthlessness, and desperation. Ryan McPartlin also solidly performs as the manipulated suitor; his character’s journey from naive trust to fearful realization provides the series with some of its most gripping moments.

Adding to the show's strengths are its slick production values, strong attention to detail, and the atmospheric Southern setting, all of which lend a robust authenticity to the proceedings. The well-researched script and the carefully constructed backstory work well in tandem to maintain the audience's interest.

Overall, Everything She Ever Wanted is an absorbing psychological exploration of a deeply flawed and manipulative character, driven by an impressive cast and direction. At turns unsettling and engaging, this miniseries captures the full emotional gamut of a world twisted by personal desires and treacherous schemes, capturing the consequences of unchecked ambition within the parameters of a family drama.

In summary, Everything She Ever Wanted is a unique piece of television that offers a refreshing mix of family drama, crime, suspense, and psychological exploration. Perfect for those who appreciate tense, suspenseful storytelling and exceptional acting, this miniseries promises to leave an indelible impression on its viewers.