Right from the start, NWR establishes a tone and style that sinks us into this dark, messed up mirror dimension where cops and criminals are simply two sides of the same coin. morality is blurred to the point of being almost nonexistent and the idea of justice is more complicated than it seems.
Refn breaks down suspence on a molecular level here, to the point where something as simple as anticipating the next line of dialogue is an act of suspense in itself. patience is key here and if thats something you struggle with, maybe grab a fidge spinner/cube or something to somewhat distract yourself with because this pace is highly deliberate and is essential to capturing the nature of this world.
i personally was confused about claims that the show is too slowly paced because i found the running time deceptive. by the time the episode was over, i was ready to dive into the next.
the cinematography and score are both top notch which is to be expected of NWR but the score really may be the best work Cliff Martinez has done with him. the compositions are all immaculate and the instrumentation is intoxicating. it really helps you sink into the rabbit hole that is this show.
it may not be for everyone but i think if you keep an open mind and find ways to curb your short attention span, this show will pay it back to you in dividends.
(also the scene with Steve Baldwin is an absolute pleasure to watch. perfectly surreal and hilarious)