Strange Angel

Strange Angel is a captivating blend of drama, mystery, suspense, and history rolled into an engaging narrative. Produced by CBS All Access in 2018-2019, this intriguing show shines a light on the exceptional and lesser-known story of a man's unconventional path to greatness. Set in the era of 1930s and 1940s, the series primarily revolves around the life of a brilliant scientist named Jack Parsons, who is remembered not just for his notable contributions in the field of rocket science but also for his clandestine adventure into a magical world that eventually lands him in trouble.

Having been inspired by the real-life story of Jack Parsons and his remarkable journey, Strange Angel portrays the fascinating intersection of science and magic in a thrilling portrayal of a historical figure. The show is based on the book ‘Strange Angel: The Otherworldly Life of Rocket Scientist John Whiteside Parsons’ by George Pendle and offers an astonishing view of how ambition, dreams, and radical ideas can intertwine to shape one’s life.

The drama unfolds in Los Angeles during the Great Depression era. Jack Parsons, played by Jack Reynor, works as a janitor at a chemical factory, but his dreams are far loftier. He aspires to send rockets to the moon, a thought regarded as ludicrous by the naysayers at the time. Nonetheless, Parsons’ indefatigable spirit pushes him to conduct various experiments with rocket fuels to develop something that could lead to groundbreaking progress in the field of space travel.

The series explores how Parsons, in his quest to revolutionize rocket technology, starts to trespass into the mysterious realm of the occult. This shift in his life is primarily brought on by his neighbor, Ernest Donovan, portrayed by Rupert Friend. Donovan, brimming with charm and charisma, is a follower of the infamous occultist Aleister Crowley. Introduced to the world of ceremonial magic and supernatural beliefs, Parsons begins to straddle two remarkably disparate worlds — the scientific and the mystical.

Balancing his day job and sagebrush expeditions while nurturing an interest in magical incantation definitely puts a strain on Parsons’ personal life. His loyal wife, Susan, played by Bella Heathcote, grapples with these developments, creating a dimension of tension and conflict within the narrative.

The representation of the time provides viewers an immersive experience into the past. The creators have meticulously worked on the detailing to depict the living conditions, societal norms, and various challenges of that era. It underscores not only the scientific advancements of the time but also the cultural, political, and societal aspects of the era.

Strange Angel is one-of-a-kind for its unique storyline. The show efficiently juxtaposes the world of science and the occult, retaining mystery without losing grip on the technical aspects. As a historical drama, it provides a vivid portrayal of a man’s journey in a time marked by technological advancements, societal prejudices, and disruptions caused by wars.

The show benefits greatly from strong performances by the lead actors, who bring depth and authenticity to their dimensions. Jack Reynor, as Jack Parsons, brilliantly captures the essence of his character — a man constantly in pursuit of his dreams, irrespective of the looming doubt, judgments, and controversies. Rupert Friend is equally compelling as the mysterious and charismatic Ernest Donovan, while Bella Heathcote delivers a heartfelt performance as Susan Parsons, a woman grappling with her husband’s obsessions.

In total, Strange Angel is a riveting drama that not just provides a fresh outlook on Parsons' life but also immerses its audiences into a time of exploration and ambition. The show’s seamless blend of history, science, and the occult results in an intriguing narrative that keeps its audience captivated till the end. Both the storyline and the execution make Strange Angel a compelling watch that holds a mirror up to the complexity of human ambition and the lengths to which one can go to realize their dreams. It’s a testament to the blurred division between genius and madness, guided by unmatched ambition and ushering an era of ground-breaking change in the history of mankind. The show is a must-watch for audiences seeking a blend of history, drama, and an element of the generously weird.