Welcome to WESTWORLD

Article first published as Blu-ray Review: 'Westworld: Season One' on Blogcritics.

Westworld is, in my opinion, the best new show of 2016. Based on the Michael Crichton film of the same name, it’s a high-concept series about an advanced theme park populated by super sophisticated robots. But as in Crichton’s classic Jurassic Park, the creators of the place can’t control what they’ve built and things go very wrong. That is only the start of the story, which explores sentience, humanity, morality, perception, and so much more.

Why do I bring up this show now, a year after it aired? Because with season two scheduled for 2018 on HBO, Westworld: Season One: The Maze is available now on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD, and digital, just in time for the holidays.

The Story

It’s hard to talk about too much without giving away the brilliant twists, so I’ll only describe the setup in the broadest of terms. The characters in Westworld can be divided into three categories: the robots, the park workers, and the guests. Right away, there is some blurring of the lines between the divisions. In general, though, the guests are interacting with the robots in the park (which shares a name with the show). The workers try to keep things running smoothly, and address any glitches that come up.

Behind-the-scenes, founder Dr. Robert Ford (Anthony Hopkins) is nearing retirement. The board that runs Westworld would like to see him pushed out. His protege, Bernard Lowe (Jeffrey Wright), supports him, but has his own concerns to deal with.  Namely, that some of the robots are beginning to have memories they shouldn’t, and act in ways contrary to their programming. The park has been around for decades, and there are hints that this isn’t the first time something like this has happened.

At the same time, things within the park are just as chaotic. The Man in Black (Ed Harris), a frequent guest over a long period of time, is looking for the entrance to the fabled Maze. He believes this will allow him to enter a higher level of the game, and he is obsessed with finding everything the park has to offer. Is he right? And if he is, what does this mean for those that dwell within the programmed scenarios?

The Production

Westworld is full of fantastic actors. Hopkins and Wright are terrific, of course. Luke Hemsworth, Sidse Babett Knudsen, and Shannon Woodward also play employees with varying motivations for their presence. Jimmi Simpson and Ben Barnes are guests, which provide an entry point for the audience.  This is especially true of Jimmy, whose William is there for the first time. To the credit of all of the above, they can compete with the robots for attention. The humans also are just as complex as the non-humans, which makes for a busy show.

While the guests may be relatable, the artificial constructs are probably more interesting to most viewers. Evan Rachel Wood outdoes herself in her intricate portrayal of Delores. She is the oldest robot in the place, and one who begins experiencing issues. She is joined by Thandie Newton, James Marsden, Ingrid Bolso Berdal, and Angela Sarafyan, among others playing artificial life forms. Their task is not an easy one, finding a way to portray life awaking within machine. Yet, across the board, they deliver impressive performances.

Quality is maintained in every aspect of the production, from the writing to the set design to the location shoots to the scoring. Just as great care for attention to detail would be taken in the real Westworld, it is on this show. Breathtaking vistas mixed with unique sci-fi elements make for a really interesting overall world. It is a pretty immersive experience to watch.

The Extras

For some releases, featurettes dispel a bit of the magic. Showing us the nuts and bolts behind the creation is interesting, but can demystify. Westworld: Season One provides that, but somehow, pulling back the curtain only makes what’s been done more impressive. As we hear about the creation of the look, the title sequences, and filming in those sweeping landscapes, it hits home just how much went into this program. Combined with some bits on the premise and actors, as well as a light gag reel, there’s a lot here, most of it solid.

Westworld: Season One also includes “The Big Moment” featurettes that often air right after the episodes. This is a good idea because it breaks down key moments in the series one at a time. Spreading them across the discs is smart, too, because they appear where they will be easiest to access. In fact, where all the extras are spread is well thought out, making for a nice, enhanced viewing experience.

Conclusion

It will come as no surprise to you that I recommend this set. Everything about it is neat, and rewatching it only builds anticipation for the show’s return. This is a series that begs repeat viewings to fully grasp it, so owning the set is helpful for that purpose. With solid bonus material, it makes it worth going beyond just rewatching the streaming episodes. This is a great release, and one I am happy to add to my shelf. My only regret is that I don’t yet have the capacity to watch it in 4K Ultra HD, which I will definitely do in the future.

Westworld: Season One: The Maze is available now.

Welcome to WESTWORLD Park

Article first published as WESTWORLD Review on Seat42F.

HBO’s latest big-budget, high-concept series, mentioned by many as intended to hang onto the Game of Thrones audience at the conclusion of that show, is WESTWORLD. Set in a future time, scientists have created an amusement park full of highly realistic robots that live out stories in an old American West setting, and guests can pay to visit and interact within it. The adventure is completely safe, as while the guests can “kill” the robots (which are back to work the next day), the visitors themselves cannot be harmed. But will something go wrong?

My first thought after watching this was that this is Jurassic Park in the Old West, sans the dinosaurs. That’s funny because, while I didn’t realize at it at the time, HBO’s WESTWORLD is based on the first film written and directed by Jurassic Park author Michael Crichton. And yes, they are essentially the same story, a fantastic theme park that is supposed to be very safe, but turns out not to be. I won’t say all hell breaks loose in the pilot, but the seeds are planted and it’s certain that’s exactly where this is going. Which I feel comfortable spoiling because not only is that the plot of the well-reviewed 1973 film of the same name, but that is the entire premise of the show.

Of course, this raises all sorts of questions. Does Chaos Theory mean that everything must go wrong? Or is there someone behind the problems? Is it right to keep robots as essentially unaware slaves, or once they reach a certain level of sophistication, should they be considered individuals with their own rights and freedoms? What kind of societal changes might you bring about if you allow people to murder and steal in a theme park? Have humans reached the end of their evolution?

Because this is HBO, and because this is a long-form television show, I expect many of those questions and more will be dealt with as we go forward. While the pilot is mainly focused on more immediate action, there is enough of that stuff present that one expects it to be a part of the foundation. That, and the first installment is just great storytelling, which a compelling, intense introduction to the world. Plus there’s nudity. If it’s on HBO, there will be lots of nudity, and WESTWORLD seems to have more than most programs on the network.

The cast is also terrific. It includes Anthony Hopkins (Hannibal) as the creator of Westworld, Ed Harris (Gravity) as a guest that seems to be testing the park’s limits, Sidse Babett Knudsen (Borgen) as the manager of the attraction, Jeffrey Wright (Boardwalk Empire) and Shannon Woodward (Raising Hope) as scientists, James Marsden (X-Men) as a classic hero-type, and Evan Rachel Wood (True Blood), Thandie Newton (Rogue), Rodrigo Santoro (Lost), and Angela Sarafyan (Paranoia), among others, as robots. This is not a complete listing, by any means, but gives you a taste of the talent present, and most of those above get really neat moments early on that prove they deserve to be here.

The production is terrific. The town feels real, and while it’s revealed very early on that it is a construct, extended scenes in the park can leave you immersed in that world-within-a-world almost completely. The design, both in and out of Westworld, is spectacular, which lots of cool detail and a fully-realized setting. It is also clear that the writing is smart, a metaphor with a player piano being used perhaps a bit too often, but certainly apt in the situation.

I think WESTWORLD is just terrific, and immediately want to keep watching. I don’t know if it will satisfy Game of Thrones fans, with its lack of deaths (I assume, since they can build new robots at any time) and sci-fi, rather than fantasy bend, but I can’t imagine it won’t have a passionate audience. Let’s hope it’s a sizeable one.

WESTWORLD premieres October 2^nd at 9/8c.

Borgen faces first "100 Days"

     Link TV's Borgen continues with "100 Days." Katrine (Birgitte Hjort Sørensen) gets some information from a leak within the military that the U.S. is using Thule Air Base in Greenland as a stop off while transporting illegal detainees. Katrine breaks the story on air. This is terrible timing for Nyborg (Sidse Babett Knudsen), looking for a positive to play up after one hundred days in office. But with characteristic tenacity, she not only visits Greenland, but takes up some of their causes as well. With the help of Kasper (Johan Philip Asbæk), she also manages to ride the case out of the media spotlight. Unfortunately, as Katrine learns there is still more to explore, her contact dies, possibly murdered.

     The title "100 Days" is not a straight translation of the episode's original title, "Op til kamp." Instead, it appears Borgen wishes to play up the 100 Day milestone, a major landmark for any new leader in the U.S., to an American audience. Nyborg discusses her own 100 Day legacy, but is more concerned with the crisis at hand, and only resolves the image issue with happy circumstance. Kasper, on the other hand, is much more cynical. As unsexy as Greenland is, he'll take it as a win, as Nyborg won't let the conversation drift towards something else anyway.

     Up until now in Borgen, Nyborg only deals with political crisis within the squabbling parties that make up Parliament. But in "100 Days," she is faced with a real international incident. She weathers the storm quite well, not letting the pressure of the situation push her off of message, nor shirking from dealing with the media coverage. She looks at every angle of the situation, and finds the deeper meaning behind the problem. She is learning to play the game a little, allowing herself to lie during an interview. But her intentions seem to be to calm the situation, rather than just to save face.

     While lesser politicians send Intelligence officers to search Katrine's apartment and press charges against the news program and the employees involved, Nyborg upholds the image of free speech. She doesn't try to save the journalists from the law, but she doesn't seek revenge on them for doing their jobs, either. Does this mean Nyborg isn't quite as concerned with her ideals any longer? Is the office changing her? Or does she have to choose her battles, with free speech not being something she considers worthy of her immediate attention, at least not yet? Either way, she does show leadership, but doesn't go quite as far in the name of justice as an idealist might wish she would.

     Katrine is actually proving quite adept at handling tough situations, as well. With much of episodes two and three concerning her grief over losing her lover, "100 Days" gives her the chance to show her professional mettle. She stands up for her source and for the story, caring about her contact, and doing everything she can to help. When her boss, Torben Friis (Søren Malling), backs down, she pushes him, though not going as far as to lose her job over it. This shows intelligence as well as bravery. Thankfully, former colleague Hanne Holm (Benedikte Hansen), finally impressed with Katrine, is able to help out, promoting the story in other news outlets until the police have no choice but to drop their case, as there will be too many people to prosecute.

     There are some interesting parallels in this episode of Borgen, with characters comparing Denmark's relationship to Greenland with the United States's relationship with Denmark. In both situations, a much more powerful country runs over the wants and wishes of a small power, with no regard for those it affects. Nyborg is noble enough to want to do something about Greenland, but the U.S., especially the CIA, are seen as bad people. If only the writers of the series could realize that many, many Americans share the Danes' opinions about President Bush and his policies, and the treatment by our military and government towards other nations. It's not a universal attitude.

     Interestingly, though the "American President" is mentioned a number of times in "100 Days," only Bush is called out by name, and only once. Obama is not mentioned, so it's unclear what the characters think of the current leadership. Along those lines, it could be pointed out that Nyborg having to clean up her predecessor's mess can be compared to Obama cleaning up Bush's. But Borgen doesn't stop to examine that aspect.

     Borgen airs Saturdays at 9:30 p.m. ET, 6:30 p.m. PT, on Link TV. The episodes are also available at http://LinkTV.org/Borgen for up to two weeks after air date, for those that do not get Link TV.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter!

Article first published as TV Review: Borgen - "100 Days" on Blogcritics.

Borgen finds "Decency in the Middle"

     The Danish series Borgen, or Government, as they are subtitling it internationally, begins with "Decency in the Middle." Moderate Party leader Birgitte Nyborg (Sidse Babett Knundsen, Proof, Juletestamentet) is forced to take back her support in the upcoming election from Michael Laugesen (Peter Mygind, 4-stjerners middag, Anna Pihl) of the Labour Party after he makes a racist statement. Birgitte's "spin-doctor," Kasper Juul (Johan Philip Asbæk, R, Worlds Apart) finds dirt on the incumbent, the Liberal Party's Lars Hesselboe (Søren Spanning, Park Road, At the Faber), but Birgitte refuses to use it. So Kasper leaks the info to Laugesen, who doesn't share Birgitte's scruples. Thus, the two major party leaders end up squabbling publicly, opening the door for Birgitte, who after making an impassioned, heartfelt speech, secures her party's control of the government. And that's just episode one! 

     Borgen actually translates as "The Castle," a nickname for Christiansborg Palace, where Denmark's Parliament conducts there business in Copenhagen. Perhaps the producers thought that "Government" would have a broader appeal, but at least in the United States, "The Castle" would have worked just as well. Americans understand how many politicians see themselves as above the people, and rule from their high seat in the center of power. Thus, the nickname would work on many levels here, too.

     Borgen's portrayal of Denmark's political system has much in common with the U.S.'s, making the series immediately and easily accessible for a stateside audience. Well, other than some Americans being lazy about subtitles, necessary for the mostly Danish dialogue, which one should be able to look past, especially for a remarkable, thrilling drama such as this one. While the Danish system has more parties than the U.S., and the Prime Minister is not directly elected by the people there, the fighting between the opposing sides, not to mention the dirty plays of politics, is inherently familiar. In fact, the Danish system seems superior in some ways in "Decency in the Middle" because quite a few Americans wish that the Republicans and Democrats, who constantly argue like children, would self-destruct, making way for a centrist to step up.

     Birgitte Nyborg is a heroic figure. Standing by principal, even when she worries that her party will not appreciate it, she really cares about the average citizen. It is obvious she is into politics for all of the right reasons, wanting to help people, rather than just further her own image and popularity. The press materials for Borgen state that this series is partially about how power can change a person, so it's not certain that Nyborg will stay this idealistic leader. But she's off to a good start, refusing to get down in the muck, and fire off personal attacks. Plus, Borgen gets many comparisons to The West Wing, whose president also strayed from time to time, but always stepped up in the end, so hope is not lost.

     Nyborg seems so strong and brave that viewers will have little worry about whether she can triumph over a very messy political battle. Instead, concern turns towards how her family will adjust. Husband Philip Christensen (Mikael Birkkjær, Aftermath, Sommer) is incredibly supportive and proud of Birgitte, and they have a warm, loving, teasing relationship. However, they also have a deal that they take turns with their careers, and Birgitte's turn is about up. She breaks the news to Philip that she is wanted for the Prime Minister position at the end of "Decency in the Middle," so it's not yet been shown if he will agree to stand aside any longer. After all, he's home taking care of their two children. Instinct says that he will recognize this high opportunity and let Birgitte have a little longer outside of the home, but marriage is complicated. Only those in it truly know how it works, and that's only as it applies to them. So until episode two airs, viewers may not predict how this will turn out.

     Kasper is an intriguing and familiar character. He is unconcerned with the ideals that Birgitte spouts, but instead, relishes the game of politics. He works for her, so he supports her. But he is also willing to leak damaging information to another party, which benefits Birgitte, even when she is against the maneuver. He may be loyal, but that doesn't mean he listens. He is the main reason Birgitte ends up where she is at the end of "Decency in the Middle," but she fires him instead of thanking him. Might she have a change of heart later? He is, after all, a main character. And whatever his faults, he is shrewd and smart, two qualities Birgitte needs in her office to succeed now that she will have real power. She may not like Kapser, but she needs him.

     Kasper also has his own share of personal drama to contend with. He used to be involved with a journalist, Katrine Fønsmark (Birgitte Hjort Sørensen, Julie), who finds herself a rising star as Borgen begins. But she is also having a fling with Hesselboe's right hand man, a serious conflict of interest. Worse, the guy is married, and has a heart attack in their love nest. Katrine turns to Kasper to clean up the mess, which makes sense, given his talents in the political arena. This problem doesn't seem too foreign to what he does on a daily basis. But it also implicates him in scandal, should Katrine's relationship ever be revealed. This could threaten Birgitte's reputation by association, so let's hope this won't be an issue.

     Will Katrine be able to recover from her grief? She misses work, much to the dismay of her boss. Luckily for her, he's desperate enough to give her a second chance, even allowing her to host a big debate. But then she breaks down again backstage following the event, in front of her superior. She needs to pull it together, and hope her emotions don't raise suspicion, or she won't be long in her career.

     The entire scandal surrounding Laugesen is complicated, too. Borgen doesn't go for the easy, two-dimensional play. Instead, viewers see that he is forced to charge expensive items because his crazy wife, Lisbeth (Ida Dwinger, Sommer, Reconstruction), is making a huge scene. The only card he happens to have with him is one whose account is owned by the government. He has every intention of repaying the funds, and making sure the taxpayers don't foot the bill. Yet, because of Katrine's indiscretion, Kasper finds only the credit card receipt, not the truth. One will feel sorry for the political leader, as without knowing all of his body of work, all that is shown in "Decency in the Middle" is him going down for something that he shouldn't be entirely blamed for.

     If you don't like subtitles, NBC is planning a remake of Borgen soon. But considering this original is produced by the same people who created the original, Danish version of The Killing, a very successful series, one might want to sample the real thing before it is changed for "American taste." Trust me; it needs no change. The acting is already brilliant and the writing is smart.


     Borgen's first season is ten episodes long, and it is currently running a second season overseas. This means there is much more intrigue to come, and one shouldn't miss out on it. Borgen airs Saturdays at 9:30 p.m. ET, 6:30 p.m. PT, on Link TV. The episodes are also available at http://LinkTV.org/Borgen for up to two weeks after air date, for those that do not get Link TV.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter!

Article first published as TV Review: Borgen - "Decency in the Middle" on Blogcritics.