The Bite

The Bite is a thrilling comedy drama series that aired on Spectrum Originals in 2021. It's an inventive and distinctive exploration into a world of pandemics, with a clever and unexpected twist that sets it apart from other pandemic-inspired dramas screened in a post-Covid-19 era.

The series is the brainchild of showrunners Robert and Michelle King, the creative minds behind other acclaimed television dramas such as "The Good Wife" and "The Good Fight". The Kings are renowned for their skill in crafting smart, layered, and engaging dramas, and The Bite is no exception. The series is set in New York City amidst the chaotic and disturbing backdrop of a dangerous and deadly viral outbreak.

In keeping with the show's name, The Bite introduces a strain of virus that has dangerous and horrifying physical implications for the infected – an aspect that makes the series a thrilling exploration of suspense, anxiety, and sometimes, discomfort. All this is delivered with meticulously crafted plots that effortlessly blend mystery, drama, and a dash of humor to keep viewers engaged.

The story of The Bite revolves around two main characters: Rachel (played by Audra McDonald) and Lily (played by Taylor Schilling), who are neighbors living in the same New York City building, while also practicing medicine and navigating through their personal and professional lives in the throes of the virus outbreak. Rachel is a successful doctor who runs her practice virtually from her apartment, while Lily, her glamorous British expat neighbor, also runs her own unique "online business".

The twist in the story comes when a mysterious virus begins to spread, which turns those affected into zombie-like creatures. Without revealing too much, it's safe to say that the virus outbreak forces both women into unprecedented situations, challenging their skills and pushing them to step up and face the surrounding chaos in ways they had never imagined.

One strength of the series is its casting. Audra McDonald, a multiple-time Tony Award winner, delivers a stunning performance as Rachel, skillfully portraying a range of emotions as her character faces escalating professional and personal crises. Taylor Schilling, well-known for her starring role in "Orange is the New Black", is also brilliantly cast as Lily.

Another strength is the clever and surprising writing for which the Kings are known. The Bite combines elements of big pharma conspiracies, political intrigue, and the complications of handling a pandemic – all together make a terrifying and compelling narrative. There are also moments of dark comedy throughout the series, providing respite from the intense drama and mystery. Viewers will find the show's signature mix of suspense and humor both unique and refreshing.

Further, the series creatively explores themes applicable to contemporary times: the responsibilities of medical professionals during a health crisis, the struggle to protect oneself and loved ones, and the often-blurry boundary between right and wrong in desperate times. It's an exciting and innovative take on such timely themes.

The show also does a commendable job of capturing the eerie atmosphere of pandemic-stricken New York City. The context of the pandemic outbreak in the series serves as more than just a backdrop. It's an integral component of the storyline, shaping the characters' decisions, pushing the plot forward, and contributing to the show's overall suspense and intrigue.

The Bite is a series that's unafraid to combine elements that are seldom paired together: pandemic-affected world, medical thriller, dark humor, and splashes of horror. It's a cocktail of a TV show that manages to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, second-guessing what could possibly happen next.

In conclusion, The Bite is about survival, not just against an invisible virus, but also against the fearsome manifestations of our own human nature during testing times. It examines two extraordinary women caught in a disaster as they fight to protect their loved ones and their city, armed with medical know-how and an unwavering resolve. For viewers who enjoy a heady blend of thrills, suspense, humor, and poignant emotional dilemmas, The Bite is an enticing TV offering as it delves into the trials and tribulations of resilience during a viral apocalypse.