Incorporated

Incorporated is a riveting television series produced by the esteemed Syfy Channel from 2016 to 2017. An ambitious project that fuses elements of dystopian sci-fi with themes of corporate domination, the show unravels an intriguing narrative that is as much a commentary on contemporary political and socioeconomic issues as it is an engaging piece of entertainment. The narrative's core premise is grounded in a gritty vision of the future, where business conglomerates have transformed into oppressive powers, superseding governments and redefining societal norms to their benefit.

Set in the year 2074, Incorporated presents a world devastated by climate change, with corporations seizing control of all remaining resources. The entire narrative is steeped in a stark portrayal of disparity where corporations controlled zones, known as Green Zones, are paradises of abundance, privilege, and high technology, while everything outside, the Red Zones, are shantytowns teetering at the edge of survival—places of want, lawlessness, and despair. The series' storytelling is immersed in the startling swings between these two worlds.

At the center of the narrative is Ben Larson, a young executive hiding his past in the corporate world. Working for the largest corporate entity known as SPIGA Biotech, Ben bears a hidden identity, his true self known only by as few close-ones. His true origins lay in the lawless slums of the Red Zone, and his successful life in the elegant but equally dangerous Green Zone was achieved through a mix of subterfuge, intelligence, and ruthless determination. Driven by a cause greater than just survival, Ben's mission goes far beyond merely improving life for himself and his beloved ones residing in the Red Zone.

Brought to life by actor Sean Teale, Ben gives us an intelligent, determined and endlessly fascinating character to root for. He, in many ways, straddles the class divide—born into the desolate Red Zone while now operating from the heart of the Green Zone. This makes him a key player who understands intricately both sides of the world, manipulating it obsessively for his personal objective.

Surrounding Ben are numerous compelling characters with their loyalties divided between both worlds. Julia Ormond portrays the chillingly ruthless Elizabeth, an executive at SPIGA and Ben's mother-in-law who would stop at nothing to ensure SPIGA's dominance is preserved. Allison Miller plays Laura, Ben's wife oblivious to her husband's true identity, and Eddie Ramos portrays Theo, a Red Zone native with ties to Ben's past.

Executively produced by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, Incorporated incorporates a brooding, dark aesthetic to elegantly depict its dystopian vision of an all-controlling corporate future. The series' strength lies in delivering a complex, engaging plot and character arcs, along with interesting socio-political commentary without being overly didactic. Additionally, it doesn't shy away from exploring the psychological and emotional implications that arise when class hierarchy is defined distinctly by wealth, control of resources, and power.

Incorporated explores the idea of the corrosive nature of power and greed and how it can infect not just individuals but entire systems. It presents a bleak vision of a future that has submitted to rampant consumerism and unimpeachable corporate power. However, through its central characters, it also offers a valuable depiction of resilience and resistance, even in the darkest scenarios.

The CGI elements of the series are commendably used, ensuring the audience experiences the palpable contrast between the lavish Green Zones and the grim Red Zones. The series attempts to build a near-future world that, despite the high-tech aura and dystopian foundation, feels tangible and eerily familiar.

In conclusion, Incorporated is not just another dystopian series. It is a thought-provoking narrative that uses its futuristic setting as a mirror to our present realities. Its characters, their struggles and aspirations, are deeply relatable, despite the world they inhabit being uniquely distressing. Balancing elements of suspense, corporate espionage, and human drama, the series leaves viewers both entertained and contemplating the consequences of unchecked corporate power. Altogether, it's a compelling show that leaves a lasting impression due to its relevant themes and compelling execution.