Lucifer: The villain Netflix turned into a hero
Netflix has a way of making villains look like a fairytale character, even if they’re practically Satan in a tailored coat. While the streamer has many such menacing forces that could also snatch your sleep in broad daylight, thankfully, Tom Ellis’s Lucifer was never short on charm.
Netflix villains are the most nuanced creatures of the world, far more elaborate, thought-provoking, motivational, and fascinating than the heroes held in high regard. But with Lucifer, the streamer crushed it.
Ellis’ portrayal of Lucifer was a level above. It broke stereotypes, shattered expectations, and most importantly, even if you deny it, the Netflix character made you a fan of the devil. When you give it a thought, it actually makes perfect sense. Ellis embodied Lucifer not just with his sharp wit, biting tongue, and frisky arrogance; he did so with heart and vulnerability, offering both sides of the character’s story.
Netflix’s Lucifer pulls the character from the setting he’s only associated with, Hell, only to drop him into the heart of the mortal world. That too in Los Angeles, where he runs a nightclub. Why? Because even a devil can get bored. Sure, who would have thought that after the thousands of Lucifer stories that were a harbinger of nightmares, Ellis and Netflix’s partnership would turn the entire idea of the mythical character upside down?
Despite his menacing reputation, what strikes the most about Lucifer is that he is liked and loved by nearly everyone he meets. From cheeky one-liners to unrelenting humour, the Netflix character is not even a menace half the time. Plus, Lucifer literally uses his superpowers to solve crimes. If that’s not enough to charm you, what will?
Yes, Lucifer has deeply hidden daddy issues. He even gets lonely at times. But that alone makes the devil redeemable to the modern eye. The most endearing part of his arc is his self-discovery. However, his confidence and style are straight-up contagious.
Initially, it might have felt ridiculous to an extent. But the more you watch, the more Lucifer leaves you charmed. So, don’t resist it because he will pull you back with twice the force. And by the time the credits roll, he won’t even be who he was.