Manhattan has hit the airwaves with the force of an atomic bomb, among critics, anyway (see the earlier news brief of the show).
It’s the 1940’s, and secrets abound — military and otherwise — at a base in NM, called The Hill, housing nuclear physicists (more than usual). Turns out they’re involved in an arms race against time to build a device called “the Gadget,” which is really the first A-bomb – with two to choose from (you have to accessorize, after all)!
Scientist Charlie Isaacs (Ashley Zukerman) moves there with his wife Abby (Rachel Brosnahan) and son, and the strain starts to take a toll on their relationship, not to mention Charlie’s health. Meanwhile, head of one of the research teams, Frank Winter (John Hickey), also begins to crack under the pressure of what he is working on.
Right off the bat, Manhattan reminds of Mad Men — from camera work to palate to costumes, even some of the storylines. Husbands lie to their wives, who freak out about their kids, and find time to gossip amongst each other.
Character types are also reminiscent of the popular AMC drama. Everyone is so crestfallen or afflicted in some way that one or two of them may be related to Don Draper. The same kind of flaws are at play: men who teeter on the brink, with women or at work, but keep on the brave face (refer to Mr. Winter). Oh, and the liquor flows freely too!
What’s more, since they operate in an environment of such tight security, no one is guaranteed safety. A few, shockingly, may not be around for the rest of the season, a la Jared Harris back at Sterling Cooper (the grimy pimps). (Hold on through the second episode, you’ll see.)
Arguably, the familiarity of the setup is no accident. The involvement of Lionsgate probably calls for a signature style to 20th century period pieces. Perhaps producers require a level of input, as they are wont to have; they know what worked before.
Regardless, you will be riveted, even if you’re tuning in late. The performances are good enough, and the cast strong enough. It’s well worth working with.
If you miss Manhattan on Sunday, relax, Hulu is streaming it; and WGN will tirelessly replay that week’s episode.
