TV SERIES REVIEW
Manhunt
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Genre: Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 7x 52m episodes
Director(s): Carl Franklin, John Dahl, Eva Sørhaug
Writer(s): Monica Beletsky
Cast: Tobias Menzies, Anthony Boyle, Lovie Simone, Will Harrison, Brandon Flynn, Damian O’Hare, Glenn Morshower, Patton Oswalt, Matt Walsh, Hamish Linklater
Where To Watch: premiering March 15, 2024 on Apple TV+

RAVING REVIEW: Take a trip back in time to a lesser-explored piece of American history with MANHUNT. This series combines the suspense of a thriller with the depth of a historical drama and a pinch of documentary-style education. Guided by Monica Beletsky's creative vision and drawing from James L. Swanson's acclaimed book, MANHUNT offers an immersive experience of the chaotic aftermath of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination. This series recounts the historical events in the days following and provides a thrilling, insightful exploration that challenges viewers to see a familiar story through a new lens. To be fair, I grew up in Illinois, the “Land of Lincoln,” and Lincoln is truly a larger-than-life figure in this state. While I’ve had years of his stories pumped into my head, this tale is one that almost no one covered. History often stops with Booth jumping on stage and “being caught” later.

Starring Tobias Menzies as Edwin Stanton, MANHUNT captures the essence of a nation in turmoil through a personal journey of resilience and resolve. The series aims to inform and engage viewers by recreating the intense atmosphere of the 19th century. It brings history to life, transforming textbook tales into a dynamic, palpable world. Lincoln and Booth are synonymous with grade school history lessons, but this remarkable series expands the story and shows what those around this piece of history went through. While the series is set during Lincoln’s death, it parallels some of the country's struggles today.

MANHUNT stands out by breaking away from conventional historical narratives. It offers a compelling story that delves into America's struggle to uphold Lincoln's ideals in the face of adversity. The narrative is rich with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for justice, resonating with viewers by highlighting the complex emotions that shaped one of America's most challenging times. A remarkable cast of incredible performances cement this as another incredible Apple Studios series.

The production's choice of filming locations in Savannah, Georgia, and Philadelphia's Miller Theater adds layers of authenticity and homage to the historical events portrayed. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that viewers are not merely watching a series but are transported back in time, gaining fresh insights into well-trodden historical paths.

As MANHUNT's release draws near, I believe this is a must-watch for anyone even remotely interested in history. It will deepen your understanding of this critical period. The series incorporates diverse perspectives, particularly from those whose lives were forever changed by the assassination and its aftermath.

MANHUNT is more than a recounting of historical events; it's a compelling invitation to revisit the impact of Lincoln's assassination and the ideals he championed. With its historical accuracy and engaging storytelling blend, MANHUNT is poised to become a landmark series, offering both an educational journey and an enthralling viewing experience. This series will, without question, make a significant mark on the landscape of historical drama, appealing to history buffs and casual viewers alike.

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[photo courtesy of APPLE STUDIOS, APPLE TV+]

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