Patriot -

Premise:
“Patriot” is a dark comedy-drama series that blends elements of espionage with quirky storytelling. The show centers around John Tavner (played by Michael Dorman), an intelligence officer posing as a mid-level employee at a Midwestern industrial piping firm. Tasked with preventing Iran from going nuclear, John finds himself entangled in a web of professional duties and personal dilemmas. His father, Tom Tavner (Terry O’Quinn), is his State Department Director boss, and his brother, Edward Tavner (Michael Chernus), is a Congressman. They are the only ones privy to John’s real job, which makes for complex family dynamics.

Themes:
The series masterfully explores themes of duty, family, and the consequences of living a double life. It delves into the psychological toll that undercover work takes on an individual and their family, questioning whether the ends can truly justify the means. The show’s dark comedic tone also highlights the absurdities inherent in bureaucratic systems, especially in the spheres of government and espionage.

Critical Consensus Rating: 4.5/5
The series has been highly acclaimed for its unique tone, intricate storytelling, and complex characters. Critics praise the blend of dark humor and drama, as well as the depth of the characters. However, the unconventional storytelling style may not suit everyone’s taste, which accounts for some of the more lukewarm reviews.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-MA
The show carries a TV-MA rating due to its mature themes, strong language, and occasional violence, making it appropriate for adult viewers.

Broadcast Information:
“Patriot” originally aired on Amazon Prime Video, running for two seasons from 2015 to 2018.

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