Graves

Graves is a captivating American comedy television series that was aired on EPIX from 2016 to 2017. Centered around the colourful life of a fictional former President of the United States, Richard Graves, this delightful TV show presents an intriguing mix of humor, drama, and heartfelt narratives. It seems to negotiate the thin line between comedy and tragedy with relative ease, delivering a satirical take on American politics while amplifying the private struggles of personal redemption.

In the central role, we have Nick Nolte playing the part of Richard Graves. Graves is presented as a charming but often misunderstood individual who steps into the spotlight two decades after his presidential tenure. Once a celebrated and influential leader, Graves finds himself battling regret and guilt over the adverse impact his policies had on the nation. Nolte masterfully brings these characteristics to life, making Graves an instantly relatable and flawed hero.

The show opens up with Graves realizing, twenty-five years post his presidency, that his administrations may not have been as beneficial for the country as he once believed. In his quest for redemption and perspective, Graves embarks on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment that challenges his previous beliefs and ideologies. In contrast to the general public perception of him as a hardened conservative, Graves presents himself as a complicated character, torn between his past decisions and his newfound sense of conscience.

As the show unfolds, we meet the colorful ensemble of characters around Graves, each battling personal challenges intertwining with the overarching political theme. Margaret, played by Sela Ward, is Graves’ ambitious wife who is herself an influential figure in the political landscape. She has her own mile-a-minute story of aspirations and ambition, as she attempts to carve out her own identity separate from being the former first lady.

Then there are the Graves children: the overachieving Olivia (Heléne Yorke) and the underachiever Jeremy (Chris Lowell). Each of these characters is carefully fleshed-out and three-dimensional, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. They have their own separate storylines in the mix, contributing to the show's exploration of ambition, responsibility, and the weight of public expectation.

Aside from the main cast, we are also introduced to a perpetual cast of supporting characters that continually enrich the narrative with their varying motivations and relationships with the Graves family. This includes Isaiah Miller, played by Skylar Astin, who is a young, enthusiastic aide appointed to help Graves rewrite his presidential legacy.

The show’s essence lies in its sandpaper-scratched gloss of politics and the controversial nature of power. It uses a humorous lens to probe deep into the human side of politics, unearthing the complexities and idiosyncrasies of its main characters with wit and heart. The vibrator of humor often involves sharp dialogue and striking scenarios that offer commentary on current political circumstances, pop culture, and the circus-like nature of American politics.

Graves is a creatively ambitious project which intelligently explores how people in power can succumb to their flaws and how they attempt to right the wrongs of their past. It dives deep into the submerging weights and guilt of such positions, focusing on the element of redemption. Combining political intrigue with an in-depth personal journey, Graves is a delightful exploration of a public figure’s private life, making it not just a political drama, but a captivating and often funny human narrative.

However, Graves is more than satire and comedy; at its core, it is about transformation. The central theme of redemption rings true throughout the show, expanding to all characters in one way or another. It's about people learning, growing, and trying to become better versions of themselves, despite their past mistakes and continued shortcomings.

Overall, Graves offers a unique blend of political satire and family drama. Powered by the superb performances from its cast, and backed by strong, engaging writing, it provides an entertaining and at times thought-provoking viewing experience. For audiences interested in political satire and quirky family dramas, Graves is a must-watch.