Netflix started off the New Year by dropping a new limited series with a unique interactive concept. The show is called “Kaleidoscope,” alluding to the various ways it can be watched and perceived by each viewer. After going viral, it took the throne of the number one show on Netflix in the U.S. on its second day on the platform. Giancarlo Esposito, Jai Courtney, Peter Mark Kendall, Paz Vega, Rosaline Elbay and Tati Gabrielle played the leads of the show, and put on both colorful and entertaining performances which were enjoyed amongst a wide range of audiences. But what about this series captured the country?
The fact that the series could be watched in 40,320 different ways is what captivated audiences. The eight episodes of the show (each named after a color) can be interchangeably watched. Netflix gave each viewer their own personal order of the show, meaning each audience member interpreted the show differently. While many people stuck with the order Netflix gave them, others listened to influencers and blogs, suggesting the best ways to watch. Originally the show had one rule: the white episode had to be watched last. However, many people have gone against that, and still enjoyed the show.
The Biggest Debate: What is the Best Order to Watch “Kaleidoscope?”
Advocates of chronological order would say: violet, green, yellow, orange, blue, white, red and pink. Many say reversing chronological order (pink, red, white, blue, orange, yellow, green and violet) is the worst way to watch the series. Contrary to the two previous orders, some suggest watching the white episode first, and completely randomizing the rest of the series. The randomizing of the series provides the audience with a unique non-linear experience.
After the show gained popularity (and went viral on TikTok) Netflix tweeted out some recommendations on how to watch (or re-watch) the series. The first of these was red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, pink and white. Another suggestion was pink, violet, green, yellow, orange, blue, white and red. The list goes on and on…
So once again, you may be asking, what is the best order to watch Kaleidoscope in? The true answer is: nobody knows. The experience is objective to each viewer and to their personal taste. Despite the order, the show as a whole is entertaining. As Netflix says “Every order of “Kaleidoscope” is the right “Kaleidoscope” order.”
Make sure to tweet @VALLEYmag on Twitter with your favorite “Kaleidoscope” order, and tag us on Instagram, @VALLEYmag, with any fun television suggestions!