Watchmen (Complete Series 1 Review) – ‘The Journey Has Just Begun’

Review: Watchmen Complete Series 1 by Damon Lindelof (9/10)

HBO’s Watchmen intelligently weaves established continuity with a breadth of exciting new and recurring characters, expanding the comic book mythology creatively and with respect to writer Alan Moore's original vision. Even if Moore himself may not appreciate the sentiment, anybody who has read the book or even seen Zack Snyder's cinematic adaptation should feel content with what has been offered up to us. It would have been easy for the series to exploit the brand name with the aim of making a quick, unearned buck, but thankfully we have been given a thought-provoking and meticulously crafted sequel to an iconic storyline that many would have previously said was untouchable.

Across its nine-episode span, the plot is transcribed with great thought and a clear creative vision, with each detail intersecting as the series progresses to provide a compelling and engaging narrative throughout, leaving all vexing questions you may have answered adequately and to a satisfying conclusion.

Without delving into spoiler territory, of which almost every minor aspect of the plot divulges, the basis for the show is founded decades after the events of its formative comic storyline, with vigilantism a relic of the past. However, the upstanding tradition of wearing masks persists as the Tulsa police force take on aliases to protect themselves and their families. This is very much fitting with the direction of the world Moore and Gibbons crafted, as Ozymandias’ world-saving squid attack lingers over the residents of this small town. Yes, even the characters acknowledge the absurdity of its outlandish routes.

The legacy of the deceased Rorschach persists with the Seventh Kavalry — Credit: HBO

Through the town of Tulsa and its resident inhabitants, the series presents a strong political stance that fits in with the philosophy behind the original works, integrating delicate real-world issues fluently into the more absurd context of the Watchmen universe. With some raising concerns about so-called 'political correctness', know that the racially charged themes are not only relevant but help raise the stakes in a way that feels both impactful and necessary. While some may find this obtuse, it falls in line with the dramatic beats that compose the plot and gives rise to a more emotive, mature, and socially aware series to set it apart from other comic book adaptations. Such sub-text should not be seen as pandering but as a sophisticated exploration into both old and prevailing modern issues — just as its predecessor conveyed back in the '80s with its depiction of international tensions and social injustice. Without this element, I firmly believe that the show would have been dramatically diminished, and its legacy would be that of a whimper instead of a triumphant cheer.

Jeremy Irons plays an engrossing mystery role — Credit: HBO

As this series was pushed to the forefront, many loyal fans — me included — posed legitimate concerns about the writer’s ability to create a cast worthy of the founding characters. Famous celebrity figures, such as the renowned Jeremy Irons, helped numb our frustrations, but the potential for disaster remained. Luckily, these worries were unfounded, with excellent writing and respective portrayals.

Such characters push the series forward, such as with newcomer Wade Tilman a.k.a Looking Glass (played by Tim Blake Nelson), but this never feels derivative of what came before. There is never a sense of trying to recreate what has already been done, instead exploring new horizons. But don’t worry, there is plenty for die-hard fans to sink their teeth into, bringing back and expanding upon the surrounding lore in surprising ways. I can’t talk about this without ruining the mystery, but let it be known that your view on the baser graphic novel will be enhanced through this show.

New fan favourite character Looking Glass — Credit: HBO

Pushing the plotline forward, the leading star is Angela Abar a.k.a Sister Night (played by talented actress Regina King), who provides a believable performance as an intimidating force that no criminal would want to mess with. Acting as de facto protagonist and supported by a whole host of new and old characters, expect to become engrossed in her journey as the stakes continuously ramp up to a stunning climax.

I can safely say that every character introduced here serves the story in a unique way that would make it almost impossible to convey convincingly without their presence. From Angela’s loving family all the way to the initially seemingly generic political figures, each introduction serves a grander purpose that leads to an impressive story arc that hooks you from episode one and never loses its edge.

An icon for a new era — Credit: HBO

As the final exhilarating episode concludes, the series wraps up neatly. However, without spoilers, the writers have effectively left the door open for future exploration into this beloved universe. And with the foundations set and trust firmly established with viewers, the sky is truly the limit for this series, and I can't wait to see which direction a second venture could take us.