Designated Survivor

Designated Survivor is a thrilling political drama that aired on ABC in the United States from 2016 to 2019. The show, which ran for three seasons, gripped viewers with its unique premise, tense storylines, and remarkable performances, particularly from the lead actor, Kiefer Sutherland. The series was loved for its engaging narrative, realistic portrayal of political settings, and its exploration of the complexities of leadership during a national crisis.

The show introduces an intriguing concept taken from actual U.S. government protocol – the 'designated survivor.' This protocol, during major events like the State of the Union address, ensures one member of the government is held in a secure location, ready to assume the presidency if a catastrophic event occurs and wipes out the rest of the administration.

In the series, the character Thomas Kirkman (played by Sutherland), a lower-level cabinet member, is shockingly thrust into the spotlight and the position of the highest office due to an unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol during the State of the Union address. Prior to the disaster, Kirkman was unassuming, dedicated, and far from the political spotlight, serving as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. However, following the catastrophic event, he finds himself unexpectedly occupying the Oval Office as the President of the United States.

The series later unfolds into a labyrinth of conspiracy theories, political maneuvering, and questions about who can be trusted. As he navigates leading a country under dire conditions, Kirkman must also seek the truth about the culprits who caused the disaster and investigate the possibility of deeper conspiracies while balancing the fine line between his personal life and his new role as President.

The excellent ensemble cast of the series wonderfully brings the world of American politics to life. Each character is beautifully etched out and contributes significantly to the plot's progression, whether it be within the White House, FBI, or even the dynamics with foreign governments. Throughout the mise-en-scene, Designated Survivor further delves into the office's intense pressure, especially for an essentially unprepared President and his efforts to keep the nation united in the wake of despair and fear.

A compelling characteristic of Designated Survivor is its effective balance between exploring political realities and human drama. Apart from the high-stakes political environment, the show pivots into the personal life of Kirkman and how it is affected by his sudden ascension. It investigates his relationship with his wife and children, and how they cope with their dramatically altered lives. Concurrently, it projects the immense public scrutiny and expectations surrounding him, the struggle to prove his competence, and the constant tug-of-war between politics, personal values, and national interest.

One of the defining aspects of the show is its exploration of moral dilemmas within the unpredictability of the political landscape. It also probes at the theme of how power impacts and reshapes individuals thrust into positions they weren't initially prepared for. For Kirkman, the presidency isn't just title; it becomes a test of his patience, leadership, and character in the face of conflict, panic, distrust, and even betrayal. As such, Designated Survivor skillfully places the 'human' side of its characters amidst a stage of political machinations and national crisis.

Designated Survivor is a cleverly written show that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with every twist and turn. Its use of suspense, action, drama, and mystery drives the plot forward, creating an engaging narrative that encourages you to binge-watch one episode after the other. The portrayal of politics is nuanced, making the series a realistic representation of the U.S. governmental processes and the weighty responsibilities of the Presidency.

In summary, Designated Survivor is a captivating political drama that combines intrigue, suspense, and personal drama in equal measures. It takes viewers on an electrifying journey through the volatile realm of American politics and offers an engrossing look at a man propelled into a position of power and his struggle to steer a nation through an unpresented crisis. The series has been lauded for its unique concept, gripping storytelling, and sterling performances, particularly by Kiefer Sutherland, who successfully embodies the underdog character navigating a world of power and politics. Whether you are a fan of political dramas or appreciate cleverly crafted narratives with complex characters and high stakes, Designated Survivor offers an entertaining and thought-provoking viewing experience.