The Man in the High Castle

I feel like I’m on repeat as I say this often, but if you aren’t watching Man in the High Castle you’re not watching TV. This show covers such a range of dynamics and plot genres so seamlessly, I couldn’t help but binge. Like most things I enjoy, this post World War II series is heavy, mostly because it is set in an alternate 1960’s reality where the Axis Powers won the war. Throughout the 2 seasons we follow Juliana Crain (Alexa Davalos), Frank Frink (Rupert

Evans) and Joe Blake (Luke Kleintank). Even though I’m getting overwhelmed with the amount of film productions using overtly strong female roles as the main character (and I think Bonnie Tyler would agree), Juliana not only sells it but keeps you begging for more. Her character, acting and story arc are captivating as she struggles to accept the status quo, especially after seeing some rebellion made film propaganda. She is motivated to cross boundaries, physical, social and well all of them pretty much, in search of answers to the sedation of USA. Her character incites emotional followers, Joe and Frank to action as well, but the plot thickens as both may have feelings for Juliana, it appears one may be working for the other side. All and all each actor accepts and steps into their roles with force and every time we shift story lines you are sad to see them go.

This is as much of an original idea as you will find out there today. And like most great TV and film productions it was adapted from a book. The author, Philip K. Dick, you probably haven’t heard of, but the films inspired by his books I’m sure you have. Blade Runner, Minority Report, the Adjustment Bureau and Total Recall, to name a few.

If you don’t want to know anything else about the show leave now.

The story not only revolves around the historical fiction genre but sneaks into sci-fi without you really even knowing. The fact that I’m in love with the characters, the setting and plot was amazing, but now a subtle hint of sci-fi has me on the edge of my seat begging to know more; even after two seasons. All this wonderful praise should be taken with a grain of salt. Obviously the crux of the show has not happened yet, and I have not seen a complete amazon original production completely blow me away yet. So in hopes of keeping your expectations (and mine) in check (#pleasedontbelikeLOST), before you turn it on (because the opening credits are that good) just tell yourself, “This is going to be terrible” before every episode.