Okay, so I didn’t think I’d review this as it was a TV show I thought would be quite forgetable and wouldn’t leave a lasting impression. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
22.11.63 is an 8-part TV miniseries drama based off of the Stephen King book of the same name. It boasts a strong cast, including Chris Cooper (American Beauty, The Muppets) and its main lead is James Franco (The Interview, This is the End). It also boasts the executive producers of Stephen King and JJ Abrams.
The plot? Jake Epping (James Franco) is sent back in time to stop the assassination of president John F. Kennedy. What ensues is a masterpiece of television.
I don’t want to spoil anything as I feel the show impacts more when you’re not expecting what’s coming. But the cast in this show give amazing performances. Sarah Gaydon gives a beautiful and graceful performance playing Sadie Dunhill – Jakes love interest, George Mackay gives a powerful performance as Bill Turcotte – Jakes partner in time meddling and Daniel Webber gives a tragic and brilliant performance as Lee Harvey Oswald- the infamous killer of JFK.
But, the standout performance by far was James Franco. He gave such an emotional range as Jake Epping. From a distrusting English Teacher in the first episode to a loving and detailed English Teacher in the last episode.
Another moving, although small, performance was from Leon Rippy who played Harry Dunning. He played his part amazingly and made me feel sorry and heartbroken for him every time he was on screen.
The series overall is short, with each episode varying from 45-55 minutes each and with each delivering twist after twist making sure to keep the audience on their toes. The plot toys with the different conspiracy theories about who killed Kennedy and really leaves the audience guessing until the very last episode, even I had no idea what the plot was going to do next and how the story would end past the assassination date.
If you have the time, and the emotional tolerance for it (I almost cried once or twice), I strongly recommend 22.11.63. It’s currently out on DVD and Blu-Ray as well as being available as a free-to-watch boxset on Sky On Demand.
22.11.63: 5/5 – Absolutely Stunning
Connor Mountford 