Rhea Seehorn Is a Force of Nature in Dystopian Drama Pluribus – Review

Key Highlights

  • Rhea Seehorn stars as Carol in the new Apple TV+ series “Pluribus.”
  • The show is a dystopian sci-fi drama created by Vince Gilligan.
  • Seehorn’s performance is praised for being intransigent and compelling.
  • “Pluribus” deals with themes of individuality in a collective society.

Vince Gilligan Returns to the Small Screen with “Pluribus”

The renowned creator of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Vince Gilligan, makes his first return to television with a new dystopian sci-fi series titled “Pluribus.” This marks a significant event for fans of the genre, as Gilligan’s track record is impeccable, known for crafting complex narratives and memorable characters.

Rhea Seehorn’s Performance in “Pluribus”

At the heart of the show lies Rhea Seehorn, best known for her role as Marie Schrader in Better Call Saul. Seehorn is cast as Carol, a lowbrow smut author who finds herself in a world where everyone except those who died during “the joining” has merged into one collective consciousness. Seehorn’s portrayal of Carol is described as grimly intransigent and compelling; she embodies the last person you’d expect to take on the task of saving humanity.

The Dystopian Theme and Plot

“Pluribus,” named after a Latin phrase meaning “out of many, one,” explores the concept of individuality within a collective society. The show follows Carol as she navigates her new reality in Albuquerque with her manager and partner Helen (played by Miriam Shor). Carol’s journey from depression to defiance is central to the narrative, though critics argue that the show struggles to balance this character arc effectively.

Production and Critical Reception

The production quality of “Pluribus” is lauded for its polished work. However, despite a promising premise, the series falls short in delivering a fully engaging story. The tension is incorrectly calibrated compared to other survivalist dramas like The Last of Us and Fallout.

Rhea Seehorn’s performance remains the standout feature, with the show needing her compelling lead role to hold together. Despite its shortcomings, “Pluribus” still offers an intriguing exploration of individuality in a collective society.

In conclusion, while “Pluribus” may not live up to the expectations set by its creator’s previous works, Rhea Seehorn’s performance shines through. Vince Gilligan’s return to television with this ambitious project marks an interesting venture into dystopian sci-fi that showcases his creative vision and the high standards he sets for himself.