Photo credit: IMDB
Image provided by: Rotten Tomatoes
As an avid fan of The Office and Parks and Recreation, among a slew of other entertaining shows, I have been a fan of Greg Daniels. His format for storytelling (especially within the comedic realm), is alluring. His knack for carrying the embodiment of the human condition, regardless of trial or tribulation of character, we can all relate. Sure, we may not be selling propane or propane accessories in a small town in Texas, but the writing invites us in to emulate those characters and identify with their needs and wants.
Upload is no different. The theme of the afterlife has always been part of the human condition, always wondering what happens when we die. Or what could happen now with the advancements of technology and IoT (Internet of Things). There are plenty of TV shows, books, movies about this very subject, but Upload approaches the human consciousness in a different manner. It's a little bit more advanced than having Tupac make a holographic appearance. The companies portrayed in Upload quite literally upload your consciousness into a World of Warcraft (not literally) digital environment with microtransactions galore!
The main character Nathan Brown (portrayed by Robbie Amell), makes a choice in season one, episode one to have his consciousness uploaded after a freak accident in a self driving car. As the story unfolds there seems to be some nefarious means in which his untimely death occurred. His account is controlled by his girlfriend Ingrid Kannerman (portrayed by Allegra Edwards). We begin to understand the projects Nathan had been working on directly competed with some large corporate businesses. Which may have lead to his departure. I don't want to give too much away, but rest assured, this is a must watch.
There is a fantastic blend of comedy, drama, and suspense. I would like to think the writing staff (Daniels included) were happy to finally be able to drop some F-bombs. Some situations and subject matter is a new step in risqué storytelling for Mr. Daniels. At least, it seemed like he was painting with a new breath of whimsical nature. It felt as if he was no longer restricted by broadcast censorship, and was able to run free. The dialogue and chemistry onscreen is extremely prevalent and the characters aren't cussing simply because the censorship has been lifted. The scenes are believable, and feels readily accepted as something anyone could endure.
Season two just launched March 10. It is truncated, at only seven episodes, very binge-able, and leaves on a cliffhanger. I have been reading speculation about when the next season (or installment of season two) is supposed to air. It seems like we may have to wait until either later this year or early next year. It's a bummer because the show is really good. At least, not just from me, a fanboy. I found it to be one of the better shows I have watched recently, and I highly recommend it.
