At long last, I enter the realm of TV reviews, with a show filmed in my own city of residence.
Fargo is based on the Coen Brothers film of the same name, which I haven't seen. However, the show stands alone, so prior knowledge of the film is not necessary.
The film has a reputation for being strange and quirky, and this show definitely keeps that spirit. The characters are a somewhat curious bunch, ranging from Lester, a life insurance broker in a piss-poor marriage, to the indescribable Lorne. Which of these two are the protagonist? It's uncertain at this point, but the story seems to have centred itself slightly on Lester. If there's one thing to note with the characters, it's how wonderfully they are already developing. While most characters have only begun to show signs of an arc, Lester has already had one by growing a backbone in the worst way possible.
As such, the writing is impeccable. These characters are so wonderfully realized, that they will certainly be able to hold the show on their own, but there's also humour and a greatly compelling narrative to follow. I want to see what happens next, because what's been set up here is just that intriguing. The dark, strange wit that permeates through the series is a consistent high note, and there were more than a couple laughs to be had until the episode entered its serious portion.
The actors also do a wonderful job. With the direction they're given-which is itself great-they fill the roles perfectly. Each performance is emotive, focused, and dynamic. Billy Bob Thorton as Lorne is delightfully strange, whereas Martin Freeman plays Lester with finesse. Each actor has become their character, to an extent that I can't really imagine the show without them.
Finally, the directing is great as well. While I was a bit frustrated with scenes apparently just cutting off before the numerous commercial breaks, each scene was exactly as long as it needed to be and led cleanly to the next scene. When the tone doesn't have a humour to it, it's tense and thrilling. If there's one thing I can really call Fargo, it's gripping.
Ultimately, this is a brilliant show. For my first proper television show review, I couldn't have asked for more.
10/10
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