NOTE: Spoilers

Credit: Sky Atlantic

I love that feeling you get whilst watching a scary film or creepy television series. The tension. The suspense. Gripping you by the throat and refusing to let you go until the big scare.

It's that very feeling that immediately got me hooked onto new Sky Atlantic series Penny Dreadful, and after expecting so much following weeks of build-up and murmurings of great things from across the pond, I certainly wasn't left feeling disappointed.

In the opening minutes you'll be jumping out of your seat, and I'd say a good third of the rest of the episode is dedicated to moments building up to possible big frights.

Credit: Sky Atlantic

Penny Dreadful is set in London, all the way back in 1891, and it's not long before we're introducing to the charming Ethan Chandler (Josh Hartnett) who has his way with women in any of the towns he visits, conning those who live there into believing his stories of survival and prowess and living the life of a man used to wealth.

Mysterious Vanessa Ives (Eva Green) isn't convinced however, and does her best to enlist the help of Ethan for a job involving "night work".

Taking her up on the offer, he's then introduced to Sir Malcolm Murray (Timothy Dalton) who we learn is the father of recently abducted Mina Murray (get the Dracula nod?), and from there, things get a little crazy.

Credit: Sky Atlantic

In search of Mina, a nest crawling with vampires is infiltrated - but not before an action-packed showdown - but the trio are left disappointed when they fail to make any progress.

Credit: Sky Atlantic

When a vicious and strong vampire attacks they're slightly more challenged, but bring a swift end to his life before taking the corpse to the egotistical and familiar Victor Frankenstein (Harry Treadaway).

Egyptian hieroglyphics are found beneath the "exoskeleton suit", etched onto the skin of the creature, and further research reveals that they're from the Egyptian Book of the Dead.

Completely overwhelmed by the world he has stepped into, Ethan meets with Vanessa for what he thinks will be his last time, telling her he will no longer be working with them - but not before she toys with him and makes him choose a card from the table of tarot - he obliges and turns over 'The Lovers'.

Credit: Sky Atlantic

Tempted to return and unable to get into a new mindset, Ethan's at war with himself for the decision he's about to make, but what's more interesting is just what's happening in Frankenstein's laboratory.

He's working on a dead body (Rory Kinnear), and when a freak lightning storm hits and shuts down the power, we see that Frankenstein's monster has well and truly been born. It's one of the best portrayals of the emotional 'birth' I've seen, and both actors should be given props for some fantastic performances.

Credit: Sky Atlantic

Though the show paces itself at times, it doesn't go slow enough for you to get distracted and holds you close throughout the entire near-50 minutes.

The debut episode is a triumph - unique and perfect for those who love the gothic genre - and I can't wait to see just what twists and turns are in store as the first season progresses.

Penny Dreadful continues Tuesdays, 9pm on Sky Atlantic and Sky Atlantic HD.

by for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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