Get Even (2020)


Trailer provided by BBC via Youtube



Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Release Date: February 14, 2020

Genre: Teen Drama, Thriller, Mystery

Platform: BBC iPlayer, Netflix (International)

Creator: Holly Phillips

Based on: “Don’t Get Mad” book series by Gretchen McNeil

Cast: Kim Adis, Mia McKenna-Bruce, Bethany Antonia, Jessica Alexander, Joe Ashman, Razan Nassar





A Gripping Teen Mystery with a Modern Twist – Get Even Review



In the ever-evolving landscape of teen drama series, Get Even offers a refreshing yet thrilling take on high school life mixed with a dark, suspense-filled narrative. Adapted from Gretchen McNeil’s “Don’t Get Mad” series, this British teen thriller delivers just the right mix of mystery, friendship, and social justice, wrapped in a fast-paced plot that keeps viewers binge-watching from episode to episode.



Plot Overview



Set in the prestigious and seemingly perfect Bannerman Independent School, Get Even centers around four schoolgirls from completely different social circles — Kitty Wei (Kim Adis), Bree Deringer (Mia McKenna-Bruce), Margot Rivers (Bethany Antonia), and Olivia Hayes (Jessica Alexander). These four unite under a secret group called DGM — “Don’t Get Mad” — to expose bullies, manipulators, and injustices within their school community.


The girls are focused on bringing light to toxic behavior in a non-violent, secretive, and calculated manner. However, things take a much darker turn when a student is murdered and DGM is framed for the crime. What began as a covert mission to restore justice becomes a full-blown whodunit, as the group tries to clear their names and uncover the true killer hiding among them.



Character Development and Performances



One of Get Even’s biggest strengths is its well-drawn characters. Each of the main four girls is layered and unique, making their alliance believable and their dynamics compelling.


  • Kitty Wei is academically driven and under pressure from her family to succeed. Kim Adis portrays her internal conflict with poise and empathy.
  • Bree Deringer is the rebellious daughter of a wealthy man with a penchant for stirring up trouble. Mia McKenna-Bruce brings an edge to her role, offering both vulnerability and strength.
  • Margot Rivers is the introverted gamer and tech wizard, played with subtle intelligence by Bethany Antonia.
  • Olivia Hayes surprises viewers with her dual life — the popular girl with a secret — masterfully portrayed by Jessica Alexander.



Their chemistry forms the heart of the show. Each member of DGM has personal demons, and as the mystery unfolds, we see how their vulnerabilities play into the larger story.


The supporting cast also contributes significantly. Joe Ashman as Rex, Razan Nassar as Amber, and other students add layers of tension, red herrings, and interpersonal drama that deepen the narrative.



Themes and Social Commentary



Unlike many teen dramas that focus solely on romantic entanglements and clichés, Get Even delves into more meaningful themes. It addresses bullying, mental health, societal pressure, class privilege, and even racism — all relevant to a Gen Z audience.


The DGM group isn’t out for revenge; they seek accountability. This shift in motivation sets the show apart and gives it a sense of moral purpose. While the girls sometimes walk a fine ethical line, their aim is rooted in justice, not vengeance.


The series also subtly critiques elitism in private schools, peer pressure, and the façade of perfection that many teens feel forced to maintain. The layers of psychological pressure on the students are peeled back gradually, revealing the hidden emotional turmoil beneath their polished appearances.



Direction and Cinematography



Director Sarah Walker, along with the creative team, ensures that Get Even maintains a sharp visual style without going overboard. The sleek shots of the school, locker room espionage, and eerie night-time sequences are visually appealing and intensify the mood of mystery.


The pacing is brisk, with 10 episodes at around 25 minutes each, making the series easy to binge while also allowing for detailed storytelling. The cliffhangers are well-executed, creating a compelling narrative arc that leads to a satisfying yet open-ended conclusion — leaving room for a potential follow-up.



Writing and Dialogue



Holly Phillips’ screenplay captures the voice of today’s youth without sounding forced or stereotypical. The dialogues are authentic, often laced with wit and emotion. The balance between suspense, teen drama, and humor is well-handled, making it appealing not just to teenagers but also to adults who enjoy intelligent youth-centric storytelling.


The mystery aspect is carefully constructed. As the story progresses, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster of twists and turns. Just when you think you know who the villain is, the show throws another curveball. This keeps the audience actively engaged, encouraging speculation and discussion.



Soundtrack and Score



The soundtrack of Get Even is contemporary and edgy, filled with tracks that resonate with its target demographic. It enhances the emotional moments and intensifies suspenseful scenes without overshadowing the story. The score blends seamlessly with the narrative, adding to the overall polish of the production.



Strengths



  • Strong female leads with diverse backgrounds
  • Thought-provoking themes on justice and ethics
  • Balanced blend of thriller and teen drama
  • Tight, engaging storytelling that avoids filler episodes
  • Realistic portrayal of modern adolescence




Weaknesses



  • Some minor characters could have been fleshed out more
  • A few plot developments feel a bit convenient
  • Ending leaves several questions unanswered, which might frustrate some viewers




Final Verdict



Get Even is more than just another teen series. It’s a smart, socially-aware, and suspense-driven show that challenges the norms of its genre. With compelling characters, a fast-paced plot, and important messages about accountability and courage, it stands as one of the better youth-focused mysteries in recent years.


Whether you’re a fan of shows like Pretty Little Liars, Elite, or Riverdale, Get Even offers a more grounded and morally-driven alternative. It doesn’t rely on shock value but rather on character integrity and intellectual suspense.




Conclusion


Get Even is an engaging mix of teenage angst, detective mystery, and moral complexity. It speaks to a generation that’s socially conscious and values authenticity. With just one season released so far, the show leaves a lasting impact and a craving for more. If you’re looking for a series that entertains while also sparking thought, Get Even is a worthy watch.