Aftermath (2016)

Aftermath is a thrilling post-apocalyptic drama that was aired in 2016 on the Syfy channel, and it gives the viewer a unique interpretation of the end of the world.

The series primarily centers on the Copeland family, a close-knit and loving unit facing a daunting and unsettling reality - the world as they know it is coming to an end. Karen Copeland, played by Anne Heche, is a former Air Force pilot and now mom of three who is at the heart of the story. Her husband, Joshua Copeland, portrayed by James Tupper, is a world culture professor who uses his knowledge to guide his family through the tumultuous events that are plaguing the earth.

Their children, Dana, Brianna, and Matt Copeland, played respectively by Julia Sarah Stone, Taylor Hickson, and Levi Meaden, encounter a vast range of struggles as they fight to survive in a progressively hostile world. All of them are uniquely equipped with a mix of survival skills, intelligence, and adaptability that prove increasingly critical as events unfold.

The story of Aftermath explores the harrowing possibilities of the apocalypse, not limiting itself to a single cause for the end of days. Instead, this series ramps up the fear factor by looking at all potential apocalyptic threats. Catastrophes from every imaginable corner start to occur around the globe, including massive storms, meteor impacts, unpredictable earthquakes, plagues, and the rise of supernatural creatures.

As this ordinary family navigates through unraveling societal structures and terrifying supernatural creatures, they are also forced to contend with human nature. As is often the case in catastrophic scenarios, humans can become a great danger to each other. Facing the collapse of civilization and everything they’ve ever known, the Copeland family must adapt to survive in their new world.

What sets Aftermath apart are its unique elements of the fantastic and grotesque. It explores many different mythologies, beliefs, and folklore from various cultures worldwide making the apocalypse scenarios eclectic and intriguing. This series does not shy away from the supernatural – various mythological creatures, biblical menaces, and folklore figures from numerous cultures make appearances, adding a sinister unpredictability to their struggle for survival.

The Copeland family's survival journey is chronicled simultaneously with the collapse of societal norms, government, and civilization, and the rise of anarchy, which offers viewers a well-rounded view of what the end times could look like. This series is not just about the fantastical creatures or natural disasters faced by the Copeland family but also about the severe transformation of human relationships and behaviours in crisis times.

Despite the terror, chaos, and despair, Aftermath maintains a sense of optimism. It’s a show about resiliency, adaptability, and the permeating strength of familial love in the face of overwhelming odds. The series emphasizes the power of unity, not just in a nuclear family setting but also in a broader community setting. The Copeland family seems to symbolize hope, signaling that even when faced with global destruction, humanity can still find a way.

The characters have a masterfully crafted depth, each with their strengths, weaknesses, and complex emotional landscapes that make them relatable. The actors’ performances are exceptional in bringing these attributes to life, therefore viewers might find themselves emotionally invested in the Copeland family's survival mission.

Creators Glenn Davis and William Laurin have combined elements of horror, mystery, and supernatural thrill to deliver an atmospheric apocalypse series, complete with family drama, that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. The vivid visual effects and excellent cinematography set the perfect stage for the unfolding apocalypse, further enhancing the viewer's experience.

In conclusion, Aftermath is a unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre that skillfully combines elements of family dynamics, ancient folklore, mythology, supernatural phenomena, and various forms of apocalyptic disasters. For fans of sci-fi, fantasy, and post-apocalyptic dramas, Aftermath provides an binge-watching experience that succinctly captures the human spirit's undying resilience amidst chaos and destruction. Hence, it is an engaging series for those who like their television thrilling, unpredictable, and thought-provoking.