Premise: Set in the Roaring Twenties, “Boardwalk Empire” is a period drama centered around the life and machinations of Enoch “Nucky” Thompson, the political figure who controlled Atlantic City during the Prohibition era. As Prohibition bans the production and sale of alcohol, Nucky sees a lucrative opportunity, becoming involved in bootlegging and organized crime. As he navigates the treacherous waters of politics and the mob, Nucky’s empire faces challenges from all sides, including federal agents, rival gangsters, and his own inner circle.
Main Characters:
- Enoch “Nucky” Thompson (Steve Buscemi): The treasurer of Atlantic City, he’s a politician by day and a bootlegger by night. Nucky’s dual life is filled with political and criminal intrigues.
- Jimmy Darmody (Michael Pitt): A former protege of Nucky’s, he returns from World War I with ambitions that eventually place him at odds with his former mentor.
- Margaret Schroeder (Kelly Macdonald): Initially a struggling woman seeking Nucky’s help, she becomes entangled in his life in ways neither anticipated.
- Nelson Van Alden (Michael Shannon): A deeply religious federal agent with a moral compass that often conflicts with his duties during Prohibition.
- Chalky White (Michael Kenneth Williams): Leader of Atlantic City’s Black community and a key ally to Nucky, he plays a crucial role in the city’s underground operations.
Themes: “Boardwalk Empire” delves into the juxtaposition of power, corruption, and ambition against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. It portrays the blurry lines between politics and organized crime and explores personal ambition, loyalty, morality, and the lengths individuals will go to achieve and maintain power. The series also sheds light on societal changes, race relations, and the American Dream’s darker aspects.
Critical Consensus and Rating: Rating: 4.5/5 “Boardwalk Empire” was lauded for its meticulous attention to historical detail, compelling characters, and intricate storylines. The production value and Steve Buscemi’s performance as Nucky Thompson were especially praised. However, some critics found the pacing to be slow at times and felt that certain subplots did not add significant value to the overarching narrative.
TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-MA for its mature content, including scenes of violence, sexual content, and strong language.
Original Broadcast Details: Aired on: HBO Years: 2010 to 2014
TV Series Recommendations:
- “The Sopranos“
- “Peaky Blinders” (crime and politics in post-WWI Birmingham)
- “The Wire“
- “Mad Men” (though more corporate than criminal, it offers a rich portrayal of the 1960s)
- “Fargo” (crime anthology with historical settings in some seasons)
Related posts:
Powered by YARPP.