Period drama enthusiasts are being urged to explore a fresh take on the Cold War thriller genre, with the debut of Star City on Apple TV+. The series, a spin-off from the acclaimed For All Mankind, has been lauded as 'flawless' and 'magnificent' by critics and viewers alike.
Premiere and Premise
The two-part premiere of Star City was released on Friday, 29th May, and has quickly garnered acclaim for its tight plotting, stellar cast, and an addictive science fiction twist. Set in the 1970s Soviet Union during an alternative historical timeline, the series imagines a world where the USSR became the first nation to land on the Moon in 1969, altering the course of the space race.
Cast and Characters
Welsh actor Rhys Ifans, known for roles in Notting Hill and House of the Dragon, leads the cast as the shadowy Chief Designer of the Soviet space program. Anna Maxwell Martin, famed for Motherland, delivers a chilling performance as Lyudmilla Raskova, the head of Star City's KGB surveillance department. Their performances, alongside a talented ensemble, bring depth to this gripping narrative.
Critical Acclaim
Variety described the spin-off as 'flawless' and 'soaring', calling it a 'heavy, thought-provoking drama that pulls viewers deeper into the plot as it moves forward'. The review highlighted the series' exploration of humanity's beauty and horror, emphasizing its focus on risk, chance, and sacrifice in the pursuit of immortality.
Media pundit Robert Meyer Burnett praised the first episode on X, stating it was 'MAGNIFICENT' and contrasting it favorably with recent Star Trek offerings. The Guardian awarded a four-star review, calling the series 'fascinating' and 'packed with paranoia and tension', though warning of nightmares induced by Maxwell's terrifying KGB portrayal.
The Hollywood Reporter noted that Star City presents a darker vision, aligning with current national moods, resulting in bleak but compelling drama. An IMDb user gave a perfect 10/10 score, describing the show as 'gripping, atmospheric, and incredibly well-paced'.
Why Watch
For fans of For All Mankind, which will air its sixth and final season next year, Star City is essential viewing. However, as it takes place at the beginning of the alternate timeline, it also serves as an ideal entry point for newcomers. The series blends historical thriller elements with speculative fiction, offering a unique perspective on the Cold War era.
With its high production values, compelling narrative, and standout performances, Star City is shaping up to be one of the best period dramas of the year. New episodes stream Fridays on Apple TV+.
