Strike Back: Project Dawn

Strike Back: Project Dawn is an exhilarating, high-stakes action series from Sky One that first aired in 2011. As a part of the larger Strike Back franchise, the Project Dawn installment vividly blends the world of espionage, terrorism, military operations, and gritty, frontline combat, making for an entertaining viewing experience. Serving as the second series in the Strike Back franchise, Project Dawn brings forward a new cast of characters while carrying forward the adrenaline-fueled spirit of its preceding Counter Terrorism Unit run.

The enthralling series follows an unlikely duo of protagonists: the American, former Delta Force operative, Damian Scott (played by Sullivan Stapleton), and a stoic British soldier, Sergeant Michael Stonebridge of the elite British intelligence agency, Section 20 (played by Philip Winchester). The series cleverly juxtaposes the two leading men's differing characters - Scott's cavalier charm contrasting engagingly with Stonebridge's disciplined and reserved nature.

Scott and Stonebridge are thrown together by circumstances when a Pakistani terrorist, Latif, embarks on a dangerous game involving global terrorism. The stakes rise when it becomes evident that Section 20 itself is caught in Latif's crosshairs, with an insane plan known as 'Project Dawn.' The challenge for the two protagonists lies in deciphering this intricate ploy that threatens to overthrow global peace and stability. Their mission takes them from the political corridors of New Delhi to the dangerous war-zones of Sudan, resulting in non-stop action sequences that keep viewers gripped throughout the series.

Every episode of Project Dawn immerses the audience in a high-octane world defined by secrecy, threats, and thrilling action. The narrative is smartly woven, unveiling multi-dimensional characters and diverse international locales. From intense hand-combat sequences, high-speed chases, intricate tactical planning to drone strikes, and heavy explosions, Strike Back: Project Dawn is a buffet of relentless action.

The series showcases veteran actor Philip Winchester's credible skills as the restrained yet passionate Sergeant Stonebridge. Completing the dual lead is Sullivan Stapleton, who wins viewer's hearts as the roguish Damien Scott, a man unapologetic about his past but committed to his task. The curious bond that develops between the two is another engrossing aspect of the series, offering comic relief in the grueling world it portrays.

The 10-part series, which successfully ran in 2011, is a ruthlessly efficient military thriller packed with impressive explosions and superbly choreographed fight scenes. Scriptwriters Simon Burke, James Dormer, and John Simpson masterfully balance the pace, allowing moments of character development amid the relentless action, preventing the series from descending into simple 'popcorn fare.'

The audience gets to delve into sensitive issues like terrorism, global security, political diplomacy, and corruption, coupled with elements of personal drama and camaraderie. The representation of women does not fall behind either. Key female characters like Major Rachel Dalton (played by Rhona Mitra) and Sergeant Julia Richmond (portrayed by Michelle Lukes) provide a smart representation of women in prominent roles. Despite the testosterone-filled narrative, the series does not shy away from portraying strong, smart women in positions of power and combat.

From an aesthetic viewpoint, the production quality and cinematography of Strike Back: Project Dawn are top-notch. The extensive shoot in South Africa effectively serves as various global locations, adding to the series' authenticity and making it visually stunning. The series also enjoys pulse-pounding music by Scott Shields that effectively complements its impressively choreographed action pieces.

In a nutshell, Strike Back: Project Dawn is a thrilling series filled with enough action and drama to keep viewers at the edge of their seats. It is the perfect blend of smart writing, immersive action sequences, and engaging performances by the lead actors. The show packs a heavier punch with its delicate balance of dynamic storylines against the backdrop of a teetering global peace scenario. Strike Back: Project Dawn is bound to keep any military action thriller fan locked in for its successful depiction of a high-stakes war against global terrorism. With its cliff-hanging suspense and adrenaline-pumping action, it is a series worth watching.