Showing posts with label Amazon series. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Amazon series. Show all posts

Sunday, December 15, 2024

A Sci-Fi Time Travel Series With An Interesting Twist

A Sci-Fi Time Travel Series With An Interesting Twist

When I first stumbled upon Travelers, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect.

This Canadian sci-fi series, which premiered in 2016, ran for three riveting seasons and immediately drew me in with its unique twist on time travel. 

The premise? A group of highly-trained operatives from a dystopian future are sent back in time to our present day. Their mission is to save humanity from the catastrophic fate that awaits. 

What's fascinating is the way they do it — by transferring their consciousness into people who are moments away from death, taking over their lives while covertly working on their mission. 

With three seasons of drama, mystery, and moral dilemmas, this show is a hidden gem for any sci-fi enthusiast.

The Storyline of Travelers – Time Travel With a Twist

The story starts with five strangers who suddenly begin acting out of character, which is how we're introduced to the concept of Travelers. 

Each team member has a specific role, from the leader to the medic, the historian, and even a tactician. 

These people are chosen because their hosts' deaths were imminent, meaning no timelines are disrupted. 

What I loved most about Travelers was how it blended personal stories with the broader mission. As the series progresses, the team faces increasing challenges, both from external forces and the complexity of pretending to be their host's original selves. 

The show masterfully balances action, ethical dilemmas, and emotional depth, keeping you hooked from episode to episode.

The Cast – A Stellar Cast

The cast of Travelers is another reason the show shines. Eric McCormack leads the series as Grant MacLaren, the team's determined leader and an FBI agent in his host's life.

MacKenzie Porter plays Marcy Warton, the team's medic with a complex backstory. 

Jared Abrahamson stars as Trevor Holden, the team's historian and a high school student in his host's life. 

Reilly Dolman plays Philip Pearson, the team's tactician and a recovering heroin addict.

Finally, Nesta Cooper portrays Carly Shannon, a single mother and the team's strategist.

Each actor brings depth and nuance to their character, making their struggles and triumphs feel incredibly real.

Why I Enjoyed This Series

Time travel has always been one of my favorite genres, so it's no surprise that I was glued to Travelers from the start. But what set this show apart was its originality. 

The concept of taking over the lives of people moments before their death was just strange enough to be intriguing, and the ethical questions it raised kept me thinking long after each episode. 

The series was compelling, dramatic, and emotional, with just enough mystery and action to keep me on the edge of my seat. 

I looked forward to each new episode, eager to see how the story would unfold. By the end of the third season, I was completely invested in the characters and their journey. 

Travelers was more than just a sci-fi series for me; it was a thrilling escape from everyday life. An out-of-this-world series is a perfect escape!





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Sunday, December 1, 2024

Continuum: A Must-Watch Series About the Future and Time Travel with a Twist

Continuum: A Must-Watch Series About the Future and Time Travel as a Correction

The Plot Line of the Series Continuum

Continuum is an exciting Canadian sci-fi series with four enjoyable seasons and a gripping storyline centered around time travel, corporate greed, and the fight for justice.

The series begins in 2077 when corporations have become governments, controlling society with an iron fist. A group of rebels known as Liber8 is determined to overthrow this corporate-dominated world. 

During their escape from captivity, they activate a time travel device and inadvertently bring Kiera Cameron, a police officer from the future, back to the year 2012 with them.

For example, in the 21st century, a rebel group uses this method to evade capture and carry out their mission to change the future. This ingenious approach to time travel creates ethical dilemmas, as the travelers must grapple with the lives they inherit and the consequences of their actions in reshaping history.

Stuck in the past, Kiera must navigate a familiar and strange world while trying to stop Liber8 from altering history in a way that could prevent her own future from ever existing. The show balances action-packed moments, moral dilemmas, and complex character arcs, creating a futuristic and relatable world.

The Top Cast Members

The cast of Continuum is fantastic, bringing depth and emotion to their roles:

  • Rachel Nichols as Kiera Cameron: The protagonist is a law enforcement officer from 2077 who is fiercely loyal to her future but conflicted by the events unfolding in the past.
  • Victor Webster as Carlos Fonnegra: A detective in 2012 who becomes Kiera’s partner and friend, unaware of her true origins.
  • Erik Knudsen as Alec Sadler: A young tech genius in 2012 who becomes Kiera’s ally. Alec’s future self plays a pivotal role in the world Kiera comes from, adding an intriguing layer to the story.
  • Tony Amendola as Edouard Kagame: The leader of Liber8, a revolutionary group with a vision for a different future, though their methods are extreme.
  • Stephen Lobo as Matthew Kellog: A cunning and opportunistic member of Liber8 who often plays both sides to his advantage.

Each actor delivers compelling performances, making their characters feel authentic and multidimensional.

Why I Love This Series

What draws me to Continuum is its fascinating exploration of time travel (my favorite movie topic). The series blends futuristic technology with the challenges of living in a less advanced world, which is thrilling and thought-provoking. 

One of the most compelling aspects of the show is watching Kiera use her knowledge of the future to navigate the past while grappling with ethical dilemmas.

The themes of corporate control versus public interest are also incredibly relatable. The struggle between those in power and those fighting for justice mirrors many real-world issues, making the series feel relevant even though it’s rooted in sci-fi. It’s not just about action; it’s about asking big questions—what kind of world do we want to live in, and how do our choices shape the future?

Ultimately, Continuum is more than just a time travel story. It’s an innovative, engaging series that challenges viewers to think about society, morality, and the ripple effects of our decisions. If you’re looking for a show that’s as entertaining as it is creative, I highly recommend trying this one. I loved it.





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Sunday, May 19, 2024

Enjoy the Mysterious and Supernatural Series, "Outer Range" - 5 Star Review

Enjoy the Mysterious and Supernatural Series, "Outer Range" - 5 Star Review

In the ever-expanding universe of streaming content, Amazon Prime's "Outer Range" series stands out as a unique blend of Western drama and supernatural mystery. 

Season 2 was recently released, and as one of my favorite series, I have already binge-watched it!

Created by Brian Watkins, this series dives into the heart of Wyoming's rugged landscapes, presenting viewers with a narrative as intriguing as it is enigmatic. Here's an in-depth look at the storyline, plot, and main characters of "Outer Range."

Introduction to "Outer Range"

"Outer Range" is a genre-bending series that combines the grit of a classic Western with elements of the supernatural and psychological thriller. Premiering on Amazon Prime in 2022, it quickly garnered attention for its unique premise and compelling performances. The series explores family, faith, and time travel themes, making it a must-watch for fans of complex, character-driven stories.

The Storyline: A Western with a Supernatural Twist

Set against the backdrop of Wyoming's vast and unforgiving landscape, "Outer Range" follows the life of Royal Abbott, a rancher fighting to keep his family together while dealing with the mysterious appearance of a black void on his land. This void, which defies the laws of nature, becomes the focal point of a series of strange and unsettling events that challenge the characters' understanding of reality and time.

The Mysterious Void

The discovery of the void sets off a chain reaction of events that intertwine the lives of the Abbott family with other town residents. The void's presence brings long-buried secrets and unresolved conflicts to the surface, making it both a literal and metaphorical abyss that the characters must navigate. As they delve deeper into its mysteries, they are forced to confront their beliefs and fears, leading to profound personal transformations.

Preview of the Trailer For Season 1:

Main Characters: A Deep Dive

"Outer Range" features a rich ensemble of characters, each bringing their own complexities to the narrative.

Royal Abbott (Josh Brolin)

Royal Abbott is the patriarch of the Abbott family and the central figure in "Outer Range." Played by Josh Brolin, Royal is a stoic and resilient rancher whose life is turned upside down by discovering the void. His struggle to protect his family and land from external threats and supernatural phenomena forms the core of the series. Royal's journey is one of survival and introspection as he grapples with the unknown and his own past.

Cecilia Abbott (Lili Taylor)

Lili Taylor portrays Cecilia Abbott, Royal's devoted wife. She is the emotional anchor of the family, providing support and stability amidst the chaos. Cecilia's character is marked by her unwavering faith and strength, qualities that are tested as the mysteries of the void unfold. Her relationship with Royal and her efforts to maintain the family's unity are central to the narrative.

Perry Abbott (Tom Pelphrey)

Perry Abbott, the eldest son of Royal and Cecilia, is played by Tom Pelphrey. He is a man burdened by personal tragedy and unresolved grief. Perry's quest for answers and redemption drives much of the series' emotional tension. His character's arc is deeply intertwined with the mysteries of the void, leading to revelations that impact the entire Abbott family.

Autumn (Imogen Poots)

Autumn, portrayed by Imogen Poots, is a mysterious traveler who arrives at the Abbott ranch with a keen interest in the void. Her enigmatic presence and cryptic motives add layers of intrigue to the story. As she becomes more involved with the Abbotts, her true intentions and connection to the void are gradually revealed, making her a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.

Plot: Unraveling the Mystery

The plot of "Outer Range" is a carefully woven tapestry of suspense, drama, and supernatural elements. It begins with the Abbott family's discovery of the void, which sets off a series of strange occurrences that defy explanation. As Royal and his family try to understand the nature of the void, they encounter various obstacles and adversaries, including rival ranchers and enigmatic figures like Autumn.

Conflict and Resolution

The series balances its supernatural elements with grounded, human conflicts. The Abbott family faces external threats from those who seek to exploit the void for their own gain, as well as internal struggles as they deal with personal loss and trauma. Each episode peels back layers of the mystery, offering new clues and raising more questions, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

Themes of Faith and Fate

At its core, "Outer Range" explores themes of faith, fate, and the unknown - with that unknown being time and space. The inexplicable phenomena surrounding the void constantly challenge the characters' beliefs. The series delves into existential questions about the nature of reality and human existence, making it a thought-provoking watch.

Conclusion

"Outer Range" is a compelling series that pushes the boundaries of traditional genre storytelling. 

Its unique blend of Western elements and supernatural intrigue offers a fresh and engaging narrative that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. The strong performances by the cast, particularly Josh Brolin and Lili Taylor, add depth to the characters and elevate the storytelling. 

Whether you're a fan of mystery, drama, or the supernatural (time travel), "Outer Range" is a series that promises to captivate and leave you pondering long after the credits roll.

As the mysteries of the void continue to unravel, one thing is sure: "Outer Range" is a journey worth taking.

After completing Season 2 (released this year, 2024), I eagerly await and hope for a Season 3!

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON PRIME

5 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Monday, April 1, 2024

Reviewing Reacher - The Book and the Amazon Series

Lee Child created an intriguing character when he wrote the story of Jack Reacher in the military thriller titled Killing Floor. This first book in his Reacher series includes a cast of memorable characters and a mysterious murder (string of murders) case that is very difficult to solve. The twists and turns keep everyone guessing and suspicious of each other.  

Alan Ritchson, Reacher


Amazon has brought that book to life in a streaming series that is binge-worthy. When my friends ask for recommendations for a weekend of binging, I always recommend the Reacher season 1 series. Thank you Amazon for bringing a breathing, walking, talking Jack Reacher into homes everywhere. I love it when the movie/television version stays true to the book. 


Killing Floor (Jack Reacher, book 1) by Lee Child

The book. Many years ago I read Killing Floor by Lee Child. The story was about a Veteran (ex-military police) named Jack Reacher. Reacher is a drifter who goes to a small Georgia town because at some point in time his brother mentioned a Blues Singer named Blind Blake. And in this fictional story Blind Blake had history in Margrave, Georgia. 

Reacher is in Margrave for less than an hour when he is arrested for a murder that occurred along the highway just before he walked into town. 

I devoured Killing Floor and then the 2nd book in the series. I remember enjoying Lee Child's descriptive writing and his characters. Somehow, probably busy with life, I did not continue the book series. And I am surprised (but not surprised) to find that Lee Child's series has continued to almost 30 books in the Reacher series!  I have resumed reading about this drifting, giant Veteran who always tries to do the right thing - which often eventually means being left with the only option of fighting and killing the bad guys.

The author. Lee Child (James Dover Grant's pen name) is a profilic writer. He has a huge fan base. He is reportedly one of the world's leading thriller authors. Lee Child refers to his stories as revenge stories - someone does something horrific and Reacher gets revenge. Child has said that he writes novels because they are the "purest form of entertainment". Others report that his style is commercial and focused on profitability. I'm okay with that. Gripping and entertaining is going to result in profitability. 

Lee Child fans might be interested to know that he makes a brief, cameo appearance in the season 1 finale.  

Reacher (Season 1) on Amazon

The Series. My excitement about Jack Reacher resumed in 2021 when my oldest son told me that the book had been made into an Amazon original series. I had not been at all interested in seeing the 2012 Jack Reacher version starring Tom Cruise. There is no way that I'd be able to forget Cruise and believe that he was Jack Reacher. But my son assured me that this Amazon series starred someone else and that the series was good. Skeptically, I watched. And then impatiently looked forward to each weekly installment. 

Alan Ritchson plays Jack Reacher. I think he's perfect for the role! I'm not familiar with Alan Ritchson so it is easy to allow him to become the Reacher that Lee Child described. Ritchson is big man and delivers a believable portrayal of a tough, skilled investigator. 

As happens in the book, Jack Reacher gets off the bus in a small town in Georgia and is not able to taste his peach pie when the local police roll up, sirens and lights, and arrest him for murder. "Reacher, why does trouble always find you?" his mother tells him during a flashback in time as they settle into their newest home. Reacher and his brother are military brats. His own military career includes being the head of a special investigators unit.

Reacher is attention-grabbing on his own. How much better to be surrounded by other unique characters.

Chief Detective Oscar Finlay (Malcolm Goodwin) -  Finlay has transplanted from Boston to Margrave, Georgia. Why does a Harvard graduate, tweed-suit-wearing, talented detective move to an extremely small police force in Georgia where no one looks like him, sounds like him, and he is clearly the outsider where everyone else has lived all their lives. It takes us awhile to find out why this very talented urban detective has moved to a "quiet", small, southern town.

Roscoe Conklin  (Willa Fitzgerald) - Roscoe is a pretty, young officer whose family has lived in Margrave since it was founded. However, she doesn't have any family left. When her parents died when she was very young, Roscoe was raised by her grandmother. And Chief Detective Gray helped looked after her but he has also since passed away. "I feel bad about the Margrave welcome wagon running you over" she says to Reacher as she's getting to know him.

Roscoe, Finlay, and Reacher form an alliance to try to catch the murderers.

Frances Neagley  (Maria Sten) - Neagley is a beautiful, tough, no-nonsense member of Reacher's disbanded Special Investigators team. She realizes he's in trouble and comes to help her former boss with her very special military talents. I LOVE watching Neagley in action. She is probably Reacher's best friend (not that he admits to having friends).

You can find Reacher, Season 1 - an Amazon original series here. 

I have binged seasons 1 and 2 (repeatedly) and look forward to season 3's release. If you like shoot-em-up, murder mystery, action thrillers and haven't yet seen Reacher, I highly recommend that you do. 

Parental Warnings. As with many action thrillers, this series includes violence, language, and nudity. Please look up parental guides to find more specific information.




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Most Recent Reviews on Review This Reviews






Search for Reviews by Subject, Author or Title

The Review This Reviews Contributors



SylvestermouseSylvestermouseDawn Rae BDawn Rae BMbgPhotoMbgPhotoBrite-IdeasBrite-IdeasWednesday ElfWednesday ElfOlivia MorrisOlivia MorrisTreasures by BrendaTreasures by BrendaThe Savvy AgeThe Savvy AgeMargaret SchindelMargaret SchindelRaintree AnnieRaintree AnnieLou16Lou16Sam MonacoSam MonacoTracey BoyerTracey BoyerCheryl Paton Cheryl PatonRenaissance WomanRenaissance WomanBarbRadBarbRadBev OwensBev OwensBuckHawkBuckHawkDecorating for EventsDecorating for EventsHeather426Heather426Coletta TeskeColetta TeskeMissMerFaeryMissMerFaeryMickie_GMickie_G

 


Review This Reviews is Dedicated to the Memory of Our Beloved Friend and Fellow Contributor

Susan DeppnerSusan Deppner

We may be apart, but
You Are Not Forgotten





“As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and or Etsy (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from purchases.” Disclosure Statement

X