TV-MA | 8 episodes | Comedy, Drama, Romance, Fantasy | 2026
Owing a great deal to paperback beach-reads of every strain, “Vladimir” by Julia May Jonas swaps tawdry schlock for unrequited romance, medium-to-high-brow pop culture sub-references, and nods to some of the greatest novelists and poets of the 20th century.
The eight-part series adaptation of the Jonas novel makes a few changes to the source material, but for the most part, it sticks to the trajectory of the book and the motives of the characters.
In the book, the principal lead and narrator had no name but here is credited (but never addressed) as “M” (Rachel Weisz). M has achieved 30 years of tenure at an unnamed northeastern liberal arts college as a professor of female literature. Not feminist lit, just female lit.
Ethically Questionable
M is married to John (John Slattery), another English professor at the same school and would-be poet who openly “dates” his students. As he does this with consenting women who are of age, it’s very legal, although ethically questionable.
For the most part, M has looked the other way regarding John’s dalliances, as they, being “enlightened” decades ago, have an “open marriage.” John took full advantage of this arrangement while M never did.
This might change with the arrival of Vladimir (Leo Woodall, “Nuremberg,” the upcoming “Tuner”). Like M, Vladimir has written exactly one well-received novel and is having trouble coming up with a second. Vladimir and his wife Cynthia, also a writer, take jobs at the college as teachers.
Instant Chemistry
From the second they lock eyes at an over-priced, high-end, frou-frou grocery store, M and Vladimir establish instant chemistry. At least, that’s how M interprets it. The point of view from the book and the series is that almost all of what we read and see is M’s perception of reality: a waking fantasy dream.
This kicks the door wide open on inviting “an unreliable narrator” presentation that also breaks the fourth wall. Explored to superb effect in Shakespeare’s “Richard III,” this unorthodox method of storytelling blurs M’s perception of the facts. Or maybe Vladimir shares M’s longing and pangs of amour?
While weaving in its relatively tame carnality, the series makes it a point to name-drop a different famous 20th-century writer in each episode. M’s rewording of the famous George Bernard Shaw line “youth is wasted on the young” quip is utterly priceless.
In a manner akin to themes explored in last year’s “Splitsville,” “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice” (1969), “The Ice Storm” (1997), and “Closer” (2004), “Vladimir” makes a delayed proclamation in the right direction regarding open marriage.
The Wrong Flex
Generally associated with tragically hip types, this concept is supposed to flex one’s “progressive” mindset while desecrating the institute of wedlock. It’s pretty simple: If people can’t remain faithful to their partners, they shouldn’t get hitched.
All of these films deserve immense credit for drawing the conclusion that these freewheeling arrangements eventually go south and end up backfiring.
The series also dedicates a fair amount of time mocking the current mindset permeating modern college campuses, particularly those on the east and left coasts. Populated with students constantly seeking safe spaces and others occupying the same ideological vacuum, these students are petrified by the idea that not everyone agrees with them. They soften language to not be offended and demand protection if they feel someone else’s vocal pitch is the least bit hostile or “aggressive.”
Jonas and Robin were wise to keep each of the eight episodes under 30 minutes. This prevents the narrative from dragging or feeling bloated.
For established fans of the book, it’s worth mentioning that the ending of the series has been, not so much changed, but altered. Without giving anything away, no felonies are committed here.
A vocal critic of cosmetic surgery, Weisz, along with her friend Kate Winslet, are active supporters of natural aging. In her case, none is needed. At 55, she looks at least 15 years younger and is still stunning. It’s easy to see where M gets her confidence, razor sharp wit, and effortless grace.
One of the most positive aspects of “Vladimir” is M’s creative spike while she secretly pines over Vladimir. Over the course of the series, M writes (in longhand) her sophomore novel, which she proudly declares to be her best.
M (and John) also comes to the realization that straying from their solemn vows is toxic and destructive on multiple levels. Moving forward, they make an agreement about their monogamous relationship.
The series is now streaming on Netflix.
‘Vladimir’
Showrunner: Kate Robin
Stars: Rachel Weisz, Leo Woodall, John Slattery, Jessica Henwick
Episodes: 8
TV Parental Guidance: TV-MA
Release Date: March 5, 2026
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
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