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Anonymous
Genius is an anthology series that has been renewed for season 2. The theme reveal will be during the season 1 finale.
Genius season 1, about Albert Einstien, currently has three reviews on Metacritic, a 75, 70, and 60.
Will this be an Emmy contender?
ReplyThis reminds me of Roots last year (a show from a channel which is not known for scripted shows trying breakthrough with something big names attached to it) which got zero acting noms. Not to mention it had a much more critical praise therefore only nominated for limited series (over the worst season of AHS and an HBO limited series aired months ago).
ReplyCopy URLDespite certain storylines being uninteresting (for now at least) and seeming like a not as great version of Amadeus, Genius was able to overcome its flaws with strong performances, inventive directing, and beautiful craftsmanship.
Old EinsteinThe first episode started in a scene that seemed like an attempt to be edgy. Despite great performances from Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson, it felt very slow and I was just waiting for things to happen. Occasionally, they would add a flashy scene to try and keep the viewer engaged, but instead it ended up feeling forced. Even though the performances were great and I cared about the characters, I had no interest in the events that were taking place. They were not very exciting and they were more frustrating than engaging. The situation could have been helped by sharper writing or smart dialogue, but instead in ended up being uninteresting. Towards the ending, however, a sense of urgency picked up and I started to care much more. The scene where Einstein crossed paths with the Nazi youth was very well done and the first time that I felt worried for the characters.
Young EinsteinDespite Johnny Flynn’s engaging performance, the writers could not make the Scenes featuring young Einstein interesting. Even though Flynn occasionally appeared as very bratty and annoying, Flynn was able to depict a passion that made him interesting. However, not even Flynn’s interesting performance could make the scenes themselves interesting. There was no urgency and nothing to make me care. I was just watching young Einstein rome the streets of Europe showing off how smart he was. Hopefully, as the show continues, his storyline becomes more engaging, but as of now, the entire young Einstein half of the show seems unnecessary.
CraftsmanshipEven though the writing let the show down, the craftsmanship was beautiful. Starting with the cinematography, it was easily the highlight of the show. The show also had a beautiful title sequence, as well as great production design. Ron Howard did a great job at inventively showing us how Einstein thinks, which were some of the more engaging aspects of the show.
EmmysEven though the show will most likely not have a shot at Outstanding limited series, I would not not count out Geoffrey Rush for led actor. Johnny Flynn was also very engaging, but I am not sure if he is submitting in lead or supporting actor. He is obviously a co-lead, but everybody seems to be category frauding right now, so I would not be surprised if Johnny Flynn submits into supporting. Emily Watson is good, so I would not count her out for supporting actress. The shows best chances will be for below the line. The title design was beautiful and it would be a great nominee. The cinematography and production design were also top notch and should be in the race. Finally, Ron Howard will definitely be in the running for his inventive directing, and he will have an advantage due to name recognition.
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In Conclusion
Genius features great performances, directing, and craftsmanship, however, the poor writing and boring story dragged this down significantly.
My Grade: B-
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