Thats just the start of Melissas unraveling.

As a series,Happy Faceis a gripping watch.

The pacing is excellent, offering us a bit of information in every episode without being overwhelming.

Happy Face official poster

Its an extensive, emotional role… and Ashford delivers a thoroughly moving and thoughtful performance.

Its a big part of what makes the series so addictive to watch.

From the start, I was pulled into Melissas world and her journey is one of the series strengths.

Melissa covering her mouth in shock in Happy Face

Its elevated even further by Annaleigh Ashfords layered performance.

The actress says so much with her eyes before the rest of her face even reacts.

His nuanced, manipulative performance is key to the shows story.

Matt talking as Sal, Maya and Quinn surround him looking concerned in The Studio

Happy Face is a TV Show that explores the true-life story of Melissa Moore, who discovers at fifteen that her father is the notorious serial killer known as “Happy Face.” The narrative follows Melissa as she navigates the impact of her father’s crimes on both the victims' families and her own identity.

This is also whereHappy Faceexcels as were put in Melissas shoes.

Perhaps the series most frustrating element is Hazel becoming a non-violent victim of Keiths plot to get Melissas attention.

It doesnt hold the weight the show thinks it does and most of that subplot comes off as flat.

Happy Face

Hazel is a frustrating character who only grows more so.

Season 1 is pretty strong on its own.

Not everything works, butHappy Faceis a largely intriguing and intense show.