Netflix has been known for releasing some of the most captivating shows for the past few years, and it seems like they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Recently, the popular streaming service has just announced that they have their own version of The West Wing. This classic political show has garnered a huge following since its release, and now, with Netflix’s own spin on it, viewers are more than excited to see what’s in store. In this article, we’ll delve into what you can expect from this new Netflix series, and why it’s a must-watch for anyone who’s a fan of political dramas.
The Netflix original series, The Diplomat, has been generating buzz and speculation about the effectiveness of Netflix’s famous algorithm. Regardless of your beliefs about the algorithm, The Diplomat is a well-crafted series that blends various genres into one cohesive show. The show offers a mix of The West Wing’s witty humor, Homeland’s thrill and suspense, The Americans’ secrecy and intrigue, Bridgerton’s sex appeal, The Crown’s elegance, House of Cards’ political ambition and VEEP’s comedic relief. With a combination like this, it’s difficult to imagine a series not being widely well-received.
The Diplomat kicks off with a sudden bombing of a British aircraft carrier on the day Kate (portrayed by Keri Russell) is due to be sent to the Middle East as a US ambassador. Kate is then redirected to London with her primary mission being to uncover who is responsible for the attack and to stop an impending World War III. However, Kate is unaware that the mission is a secret trial for the Vice President position. An interesting twist comes with Kate’s husband, Hal (Rufus Sewell), who was previously an ambassador but is presently filling the wife’s role. Hal cannot let go of the power and influence he still has within governments around the world, adding complexity to the already intricate plot. It also doesn’t help that the couple’s relationship is an uphill battle, and they are sleeping in separate bedrooms. Debora Cahn created the series, and her experience in producing The West Wing and Homeland shines in the episodes’ fast-paced nature, seamlessly transitioning from one genre to the next.
The Diplomat’s episodes are about an hour long, and there is a slight dip in momentum when the show’s major plot point involving the boat attack is stretched out longer than necessary. The diversion of the over-arching story allows for several sequences, such as Kate’s interview with Vogue and a fancy photoshoot, that show the PR side of politics. It is interesting to see the show highlight the significance of the public’s perception of politicians through Kate’s aversion to PR, showing how she is the best candidate for the job.
The chemistry between Keri Russell and Rufus Sewell is perfect, giving viewers a glimpse into the grey areas of their relationship through their dialogue and reactions. The supporting cast is equally impressive with Michael McKean playing the US President while Rory Kinnear stars as the UK Prime Minister. At first, the two characters come across as mere buffoons, an image that is later replaced with complicated layers showcasing the actors’ depth and ability.
All eight episodes of The Diplomat are on Netflix and provide an excellent watch. The series blends multiple genres, contains well-timed comedic relief, political intrigue, romance, and a skillful cast that is sure to keep viewers hooked.
In conclusion, Netflix has once again impressed its worldwide audience by releasing its own interpretation of the critically acclaimed TV series, The West Wing. This marks a significant milestone for the streaming giant, as it showcases its continuous efforts to cater to the diverse entertainment needs of its subscribers. With the exceptional cast and impeccable storyline, fans of the original show and newcomers alike will undoubtedly enjoy this fresh take on the political drama. So, what are you waiting for? Grab some popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in the world of politics with Netflix’s own version of The West Wing.
