The Underground Railroad

The Underground Railroad is an American miniseries exclusively available on Amazon Prime Video. Released in May 2021, the series immediately captured audiences' attention for its inspiring storytelling and its raw, unflinching approach to a pivotal time in American history. The ten-episode series is directed and created by the renowned filmmaker, Barry Jenkins, who also notably directed the Oscar-winning movie, “Moonlight.”

The Underground Railroad presents an alternate history, reimagining the network of secret routes and safe houses established in the 19th century Southern United States to aid runaway slaves. In this historical fiction, it is literally an underground railway system that helps slaves in their quest for freedom. The show is based on Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name, presenting an era of blatant racial discrimination, slavery, and brutality, while also depicting the determination, resilience, and indomitable quest of humans for freedom.

The narrative focuses on the struggles and tumultuous journey of a young, enslaved woman named Cora Randall, brilliantly portrayed by Thuso Mbedu. When Cora learns about the Underground Railroad from another slave, Caesar, played by Aaron Pierre, they both decide to escape their horrendous life in a Georgia plantation in search of liberty. From here, the viewers embark upon a thrill-filled journey marked by risky escapes, unpredictable encounters, numerous hideouts, and abrewing romance. Every location the protagonists arrive at during their journey provides a distinct experience, narrative, and underlying societal issues, making each episode rich in content and a meaningful exploration of America's past.

The series has been praised for its unforgettable performance by the South African actress, Thuso Mbedu, in the role of Cora. Her portrayal of the multi-faceted character, which oscillates between vulnerability, despair, determination and strength, is powerfully evocative. The show's ensemble cast list also includes Joel Edgerton as the stealthy and ruthless slave catcher Ridgeway and Chase W. Dillon as his young, Black companion Homer, along with William Jackson Harper, Sheila Atim, and Amber Gray featuring in impactful roles.

Apart from the compelling performances, the Underground Railroad is lauded for its visually arresting cinematography, accomplished by James Laxton, a frequent collaborator of Jenkins. Whether it is the surreal depiction of the hidden, subterranean railway or the magnified close-ups that reflect the raw emotions of the character, each frame is meticulously crafted, delivering a visual cinematic feast. The haunting music, composed by Nicholas Britell, emotionally accentuates the highs and lows of the narration, adding a layered, affective essence to the series.

The Underground Railroad also expertly balances history with magical realism, embedding the grim reality of racial brutality within the realm of the fantastical. The compelling narrative, outstanding performances, striking visuals, and emotive score altogether make the series an immersive experience, leaving an indelible impact on the viewers.

It’s important to note that the show, with its graphic portrayal of slavery, lynching, and racial injustice, can be extremely harrowing and triggering. However, Jenkins hasn't shied away from representing these elements, emphasizing the necessity to confront and acknowledge the harsh truths buried in history.

The Underground Railroad, despite its often bleak and painful narrative, is ultimately a story of unflinching hope, courage, and the drive for freedom. It showcases the extraordinary journey of an ordinary woman who against all odds, fights to reclaim her humanity and forge her own path towards freedom. The series stands as a significant piece of art that profoundly weighs in on the conversations about race, inequality, and history, leaving its viewers fully invested, moved and deeply pondered upon the past that has shaped the present.

In conclusion, The Underground Railroad is a poignant, captivating, and a profoundly thought-provoking series that reflects upon a critical period of American history through its unique storytelling. Despite its complex themes and intense narrative, this series offers its viewers an emotionally layered experience that is unlikely to be forgotten.