Red Widow

Red Widow is an American television drama series that aired on ABC from 2013 to 2013. Based on the Dutch drama series Penoza, the show starred Australian actress Radha Mitchell and Croatian actor Goran Visnjic, and lasted for a single season with eight episodes.

The plot revolves around Marta Walraven, portrayed by Radha Mitchell, a housewife living a comfortable and quiet life in Northern California, surrounded by the idyllic trappings of suburban bliss – a loving family, a beautiful home, tight-knit community connections. Marta's life takes an abrupt turn when her husband, a man involved in illegal activities, is brutally murdered in their driveway.

As Marta grapples with her grief and attempts to keep her family afloat, she is drawn into the crime-filled underworld trying to hunt down her husband’s killer and protect her three children. Though previously shielded from her husband’s activities, Marta discovers that she must step up and continue his work in order to preserve her family’s safety.

Goran Visnjic stars as Nicholae Schiller, a mysterious and intimidating figure from the crime world. His relationship with Marta, though complex and full of tension, becomes vital to her survival and pivotal to the unfolding narrative.

The unique twist of a suburban mother becoming entwined in the criminal underbelly forms the central drama in Red Widow. As Marta grapples with her new reality and attempts to reconcile her past life with her current circumstances, she also begins to question her own morality and make tough decisions to ensure her family's safety.

Red Widow’s narrative skillfully mixes elements of family drama and crime thriller. It centers on a strong feminine protagonist, showing how a woman can navigate a dangerous world typically dominated by men. Her journey from a peaceful suburban existence to a precarious life full of threats and challenges forms the backbone of the plot, making it an engaging watch.

Strong performances by the cast, including Clifton Collins Jr., Lee Tergesen, and Rade Serbedzija in pivotal roles, add further depth to the plotline and drawing in the audience with gripping performances.

Radha Mitchell's portrayal of Marta delivers a complex and emotionally resonant exploration of a woman caught in a world she was previously oblivious to. The evolution of her character is one of the key elements that define the show. Marta's gradual transformation from a housewife to a woman who can hold her own in a male-dominated criminal world is depicted with sensitivity and grit by Mitchell, making her character one that viewers can empathize with and root for.

Goran Visnjic too delivers a nuanced performance as Schiller, a man with a hardened exterior who gradually reveals unexpected layers to his character. The dynamics between Marta and Schiller provide several of the show’s high-interest moments and open the door to many unexpected plot twists and developments.

Created by Melissa Rosenberg, who has a robust history in TV writing including 'Dexter' and the 'Twilight' series, 'Red Widow' extends her reputation for crafting intense storylines that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Red Widow may have only lasted one season, but its unique premise, interesting characters, and high-stakes storyline ensure it remains a memorable watch. While the world of crime and murder forms a significant part of the series, it also skillfully showcases family ties, personal evolution, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her children, making it a multi-layered and absorbing drama series. The show's dramatic tension, coupled with strong performances and compelling characters, make it a gripping viewing experience from start to finish.