Premise: Based on Neil Gaiman’s novel of the same name, “American Gods” paints a world where gods are real, but their power relies on human belief. The story revolves around the brewing war between the old gods of mythology and the new gods of modernity, like technology and media. As belief wanes in the old gods, they fight for relevance and survival in a changing America.
Main Characters:
- Shadow Moon (Ricky Whittle): A recently released convict who gets caught in the middle of the godly conflict after meeting the mysterious Mr. Wednesday.
- Mr. Wednesday (Ian McShane): A crafty and charismatic old god who hires Shadow as his bodyguard and is more than he initially seems.
- Laura Moon (Emily Browning): Shadow’s deceased wife who returns from the dead due to supernatural circumstances.
- Mad Sweeney (Pablo Schreiber): A leprechaun who gets involved in Shadow and Wednesday’s adventures.
Themes: “American Gods” explores the idea of faith and belief, diving deep into how societal values evolve over time. It juxtaposes ancient mythologies and rituals with contemporary obsessions, such as media, technology, and fame. The series also touches upon issues of immigration, as many of the old gods are deities from other countries and cultures, now struggling to find a place in modern America.
Critical Consensus & Rating: 3.8/5. “American Gods” was lauded for its stunning visuals, complex characters, and ambitious narrative. The adaptation captures the essence of Gaiman’s novel while bringing its own flavor. However, some critics found its pacing uneven, and its philosophical musings occasionally heavy-handed.
TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-MA for its mature content, including strong language, sexual scenes, and graphic violence.
Broadcast Details: “American Gods” aired on Starz, debuting in 2017.
TV Series Recommendations:
- “Good Omens“
- “Lucifer“
- “Hannibal”
- “The Magicians“
- “Preacher“
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