The Underground Railroad

Synopsis

The Underground Railroad, created by Barry Jenkins, is a powerful limited series based on Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. It follows the harrowing journey of Cora Randall, portrayed by Thuso Mbedu, as she escapes from a Georgia plantation in search of freedom. The series reimagines the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad system, complete with engineers and conductors, providing hope and danger at every turn. As Cora traverses various states, she encounters a blend of brutality, resilience, and moments of unexpected beauty. The show addresses themes of slavery, identity, and the struggle for liberation, all delivered through stunning visuals and a haunting score. Each location she visits reveals different aspects of American history and its impact on Black lives. Richly layered and emotionally gripping, The Underground Railroad leaves viewers reflecting on the past and its relevance to today's struggles for equality and justice.

Cast

• 

  Thuso Mbedu

  Cora Randall

• 

  Chase W. Dillon

  Homer

• 

  Joel Edgerton

  Arnold Ridgeway

Reviews

The Underground Railroad has garnered a wealth of critical acclaim for its storytelling and cinematography. Rotten Tomatoes rates the show at an impressive 97%, praising it as 'a haunting and beautifully rendered portrayal of one woman's journey towards freedom.' Critics have highlighted the exceptional performances, especially Thuso Mbedu’s, who has been described as 'captivating and deeply moving' by The Guardian. The series has also earned a score of 87 on Metacritic, indicating 'universal acclaim.' According to IndieWire, 'Jenkins’ vision is both ambitious and deeply personal, making it a poignant reflection on the scars of history.' Some reviewers noted the pacing can be slow at times, which may challenge certain audiences' attention spans. However, this deliberate pacing is, according to Variety, integral to its 'immersive storytelling approach.' With an IMDb rating of 7.4/10, the show successfully balances its emotional depth with a compelling narrative, inviting viewers to engage with its heavy themes while being visually entranced. As Vulture stated, 'It’s not just a show about fleeing; it’s a profound exploration of what freedom truly means.'