From “Jurassic Park” to Super Bowl memes, Jeff Goldblum is the ultimate cool cat. But what if he ruled everything? That’s exactly what “KAOS” is here to explore! This new Netflix series, brought to life by Charlie Covell, the creator of “The End of the F***ing World,” has Goldblum sitting high atop Mount Olympus. The show takes everything you know about Greek mythology and flips it on its head, with a fun, modern twist. And yes, it features Goldblum as Zeus—the ruthless king of the gods! And the iconic Jeff Goldblum movies like “Jurassic Park” and “Independence Day” never failed to prove just how legendary Goldblum is. So, let’s dive in and discover how this charismatic actor brings his unique charm to this fresh spin on Greek legends!
KAOS: Mythology Reimagined with Goldblum
Set in a modern, alternative “Krete” (filmed in sunny Spain), “Kaos” is Charlie Covell’s latest masterpiece. Currently streaming on Netflix, the show offers a clever reimagining of Greek mythology. It serves up multiple storylines that are expertly paced and plotted, blending subtlety with intricate detail. The series is witty yet rigorous, highly intelligent, laugh-out-loud funny, and, at times, deliciously brutal.
The show transports us to Mount Olympus, a sprawling white-and-gold mansion where Zeus, played by the ever-cool Goldblum, rules with flair. As seen in all the iconic Jeff Goldblum movies, his charm is undeniable. And his queen, wife, and sister, Hera (the formidable Janet McTeer), shares the spotlight. Meanwhile, down on Earth, President Minos—portrayed by Stanley Townsend—is in charge, whom Zeus cheekily dismisses as a “bozo.”
Moreover, other characters also make lively appearances. For example, Poseidon (Cliff Curtis) enjoys life on a swanky superyacht, while Dionysus (Nabhaan Rizwan) is a bored club kid searching for excitement. Meanwhile, the gloomy Hades (David Thewlis) manages a drab underworld of black-and-white brutalism. Each character brings a unique flair to this vibrant reimagining.
Mythical Mayhem, But With Flair
Covell’s script is nothing short of a masterpiece—confident, effortless, and delightfully nimble. It crafts a modern world where gods and mortals mix, often with chaotic results. Indeed, the eight episodes brim with action, humor, and clever touches. Each character feels fully developed and perfectly integrated into the fun.
Directed by Georgi Banks-Davies, the show dazzles with imaginative flair. For instance, it features charming quirks like cereal brands such as Spartan Crunch and bobbleheads of Zeus and Poseidon. Additionally, the entrance to the underworld is a trash bin, and all phones are landlines. Meanwhile, a fax machine even makes an appearance. Eddie Izzard voices Fate hanging out in a bar, and Debi Mazar plays Medusa with a fabulous scarf around her snake hair. Overall, Covell’s deep dive into Greek myths adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
Jeff Goldblum—Zeus
Like all other Jeff Goldblum movies, “Kaos” once again proves why he’s a must-watch. He brings his signature quirky rhythms and comic flair to the role of Zeus, blending seriousness with humor in his unique style. Dressed in a sharp white suit, Goldblum’s Zeus struts around his grand palace and lush gardens on Mount Olympus. However, his swagger takes a hit when a new monument to him in Krete is vandalized by a rowdy gang of Trojans, and a wrinkle appears on his forehead. This mishap in turn leads Zeus to believe in a prophecy predicting his downfall and a chaotic future.
As a result, Zeus’s neuroses and insecurities flare up in full force. This shift from Goldblum’s usual cool demeanor adds a fresh layer of vulnerability as he plots revenge on humanity. His wife, Queen Hera—played with regal elegance by Janet McTeer—tries to keep him grounded while managing punishments and investigations. Goldblum’s portrayal is both stylish and intense, showcasing a god desperate to cling to his power. “My character is complicated and charismatic, not to mention cruel,” Goldblum shares with Tudum. “Charlie Covell’s writing leaped off the page and struck my gizzard like a lightning bolt. It’s spectacularly smart, surprising, unexpected, profound, and deeply moving.”
Divine Chaos, Epic Drama
Like all other Jeff Goldblum movies, this 10-episode series is also a thrilling ride. The show moves on, effortlessly juggling comedy, tragedy, satire, and horror. Love stories tumble into treacheries, and scenes waltz between comedy and tragedy. Meanwhile, the Fates and Furies stir up chaos, spiking the wheels of both gods and mortals. Every twist and turn keeps you guessing, promising a mix of humor, depth, and emotion.
However, your enjoyment might vary based on your drama preferences. While the reimagining of these iconic characters is conceptually fascinating, their endless squabbles, adulterous escapades, and cruelty can get a bit tiresome. But, of course, these very elements might be exactly what some viewers are looking for.
