A Teacher explores the complexities and consequences of a predatory relationship between Claire Wilson, a young teacher at a suburban Texas high school and her student, Eric Walker.
While it's visually handsome, with performances from the two leads that are equally staggering, the show fails to accomplish what it wants to do in the first place.
Robinson, in particular, delivers a nuanced performance in a series that could best be improved by less build-up and even more exploration of the affair's victim.
It's purposefully disquieting and thoroughly disturbing, anchored by strong performances from Mara and Robinson that underscore how our gendered stereotypes are failing those who need protection most.
In perhaps her richest role ever, Mara makes for a compelling lead, her usual coldness finding a fitting vessel in a character in need of warmth and uncomplicated adoration.
That economy is one noticeable thing about "A Teacher." More noticeable is how seldom it feels like a cautionary tale, despite the onscreen cautions and referrals to sexual assault resources and the story's occasional explicit references.
It takes its sweet time getting anywhere and it's not an engaging trip. Both Ms. Mara and Mr. Robinson create characters who are sympathetic but also uninteresting; neither provides a reason to hang on.
Mostly succeeds thanks to its willingness to carefully confront the ugly, unromantic truths about an issue - child sexual abuse - that impacts millions of people.
