The Strain

About The Strain

The Strain is an American horror drama television series released in 2014. It was created by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan, who co-wrote the trilogy of novels the series is based on. The plot unfolds around Dr. Ephraim Goodweather, the head of the CDC’s New York-based Canary Project, who investigates an airplane that lands with everybody on board dead. His investigations lead him to a viral outbreak with hallmarks of an ancient and evil strain of vampirism.

Making / Production

Produced by FX Productions, the series was well-received by critics and audiences. The creators adapted their original book series into immersive storytelling, bringing it to life with their imaginative and stylistic approach. Guillermo del Toro’s sense of grandeur and Chuck Hogan’s storytelling skills are seen throughout the series.

Actors

• Corey Stoll (Dr. Ephraim Goodweather): Played a complex character torn between his job and family, while battling an ancient strain of vampirism.
• David Bradley (Professor Abraham Setrakian): Bradley brings great depth and experience in his role as a Holocaust survivor with knowledge of the strain.
• Mia Maestro (Dr. Nora Martinez): As Dr. Goodweather’s co-worker and love interest, Maestro is a strong character committed to fighting the strain.
• Kevin Durand (Vasiliy Fet): Durand portrayed the hardened exterminator with ease, bringing a streak of humor to the dark series.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series is based on a trilogy of books written by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan.
• Guillermo del Toro directed the pilot episode, which was well received by audiences.
• David Bradley replaced John Hurt, who originally filmed the pilot as professor Abraham Setrakian.

Awards

The series was nominated for several awards during its run, including a Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series (Corey Stoll).

Quotes

• "He's back. I don't know how, but he's back. And he's close." - Dr. Ephraim Goodweather
• "I've seen this disease before... all the way back in 1944." - Professor Abraham Setrakian

Music, Soundtrack

• "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond - heard in the first season, adding a light-hearted counterpoint to the unfolding horror.
• "Here Comes The Rain Again" by Eurythmics - used in promotional trailers for the series.