Counterpart

Seasons: 2 (2017-2019) Creator: Justin Marks

Stars: J.K.Simmons, Olivia Williams, Harry Lloyd, Nazanin Boniadi, John Funk, Sara Serraiocco, Nicholas Pinnock, Ulrich Thomsen

J.K. Simmons, Bad Ass spy and J.K. Simmons, meek pencil pusher. Both Howard Silk. Yes, Counterpart is part science fiction, part spy thriller. In the mid-80’s an experiment goes wrong, creating tear between the two worlds, located in the basement of a government building and has created a bureau (Office of Interchange) on both sides for diplomacy, including managing travel to and from each: The Prime world, the one that caused this accident and the one discovered or created, the Alpha world. Both held secret by the greater population.

With this opening also brings, death, disease, tragedy and war. One side is set on retaliation for horrible suffering and devastation they believe was caused by the other side.

Howard Silk at the border crossing.

We are introduced to the contrasts between not just the two worlds, but the main characters we are introduced too. Because of the varied histories of the worlds, the actors playing dual roles have to skillfully pull off the differences in their counterparts. One such is J.K. Simmons, who plays Howard Silk. Prime and Alpha Howard have led different lives, made slightly different decisions, had different experiences and these things have molded them. One is softer, more sensitive and the other is harder, more guarded-and intimidating. With Simmons’ subtle mannerisms, posture, gaze and acting prowess you were able to differentiate between the two.

Olivia Williams(Dollhouse) plays Prime Howard’s wife, or Prime and Alpha Emily. Her development over the series is very intriguing. The performances by not only the main actors are stellar, but the supporting cast as well.

Prime Howard/Alpha Howard.

Although Counterpart is not a perfect show (I wish it had delved more into the “alternate” of the alternate universes), it is a truly beautiful show. The color hues, the wardrobe choices, it feels like a spy thriller in the cold-war era and fringe had a baby-minus its insanely crazy science fiction premises. This show had only two seasons. I feel that it earned a third and final season and it would have been a nice farewell. Both seasons of Counterpart are available on Amazon Prime now.

In Retrospect ★★★★☆