The Man in the High Castle
We are no strangers to what-if scenarios, historical re-imaginings, or flat-out alternate universe occurrences. Based on the novel of the same name by Philip K. Dick, this is possibly the most provocative and interesting pilot Amazon currently offers. Frank Spotnitz (X-Files) knows how to perfectly blend mystery and intrigue, making him one of the best choices in adapting this novel into a TV show. The Man in the High Castle gives us a look at what America (and some of the world) would look like if the Axis powers (Germany, Japan and Italy) had won the war. Most of the west coast now belongs to Japan, while the east/midwest is under Hitler’s rule.
This story could easily have come off as preposterous and hokey, but its treatment feels like it could be supported by historical facts. One specific instance is when someone is nonchalantly explaining that the raining ash is coming from a local crematorium where they send the elderly and those that can no longer contribute to society. If that isn’t based on Nazi ideology, then I don’t know what is. The production values and costume design are pretty good, except when obvious CGI is involved.
Bottom Line: The concept stirs up ample mystique to pique anyone’s interest, and develops its themes carefully enough that the few bread crumbs it does drop leave us hungry for much more. I’m ready for a full season.
RATING: ★★★★★★★★★(9/10 stars)
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