MANHUNT SEASON 1 REVIEW STORY: ‘Manhunt’ chronicles the 12-day hunt for John Wilkes Booth, the man who killed Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and is centered on the events that followed Lincoln’s assassination.
MANHUNT SEASON 1 REVIEW: ‘Manhunt’ seems like a slow-burning story that will try your patience at different points. But if you accept its slow pace, you will be well rewarded. The seven episodes of the series captivate you from beginning to end with their deep exploration of a narrative, compelling events, and nuanced storytelling. It takes you on an exciting manhunt adventure that leaves no loose ends as you get absorbed. The show’s slow pacing becomes apparent only in the second episode, as it goes into great detail about all the events leading up to Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, the 16th President of the United States.
“Manhunt,” which is based on John L. Swanson’s book, has many nuanced layers that are worth exploring. In a time when forensics and technology are frequently used to solve crimes, “Manhunt” explores a story without these tools, highlighting the importance of networks, intelligence, and simple presence of mind. Through the integration of espionage, police procedures, and witness testimonies, the series creates a multifaceted and intricate narrative. ‘Manhunt’ stands out from other films that tackle similar topics because it delves deeply into all the different aspects related to the president’s assassination. It emerges as a deeply researched thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The main plot of “Manhunt” revolves around John Wilkes Booth’s (Hamish Linklater) assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Booth was a staunch Confederate supporter who wanted to maintain slavery and the Confederacy’s way of life. After Lincoln is assassinated at Ford’s Theatre while attending a play, the series begins. The onus then shifts to his friend and Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton (Toby Menzies), to find the killer and bring the assassinated president’s murderer to justice.
As Anthony Boyle’s character, John Wilkes Booth tries to avoid being captured by moving from place to place, a thrilling game of cat and mouse is played out. The series also clarifies the role played by high-ranking officials in Lincoln’s assassination, exposing their strong opposition to his commitment to equality and the abolition of slavery.
The show features some outstanding acting, with Tobias Menzies in particular standing out as Edwin Stanton. Menzies gives a fantastic portrayal as Lincoln’s confidant and the one who planned Booth’s arrest. He represents a man who, in spite of his wife’s entreaties, is consumed by duty and neglects his health. His genuine anguish is evident in every scene, particularly the ones that show racial injustice. Famed for his part in “Masters of the Air,” Anthony Boyle shines as John Wilkes Booth once more. Booth’s hatred of people of color and his contempt for Lincoln’s abolition of slavery are both brilliantly portrayed by him. Abraham Lincoln is portrayed convincingly by Hamish Linklater, who captures the spirit of the revered historical figure.
‘Manhunt’ depicts Abraham Lincoln in great detail while delving into the hunt for John Wilkes Booth. The story takes place in a non-linear fashion, sometimes overwhelming the audience with details. Nonetheless, the series’ masterfully written screenplay provides breaks so that viewers can take in all of the minute details. The storyline gains depth from the careful development of each supporting character. Here is where it is important to note how excellent the series’ art direction and cinematography are, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the 1865 era. “Manhunt” takes a subtle approach, akin to appreciating a good Sauvignon Blanc bottle.
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