Watchmen (HBO)

About Watchmen (HBO)

"Watchmen" is a modern-day reimagining of Alan Moore's ground-breaking graphic novel about masked vigilantes. The drama series, based on the comic book series of the same name, premiered on HBO in 2019. The show, set in an alternate history where masked vigilantes are treated as outlaws, attempts to break the bounds of the traditional superhero story. It offers social commentary on contemporary issues and explores the complex personal connections among its characters.

Making / Production

The series was created and developed by Damon Lindelof, who is well known for his work on "Lost" and "The Leftovers". He took the source material in a fresh direction, setting it in the present day and focusing on new characters while still acknowledging the lore and setting of the original comics. The series blends elements of adventure, drama, action, and sci-fi genres, along with themes of racial tension, law enforcement, and vigilantism providing a captivating viewing experience.

Actors

• Regina King as Angela Abar, a detective who moonlights as a vigilante. King brings a powerful presence and emotional depth to her role, perfectly balancing her dual life.
• Jeremy Irons as Adrian Veidt (Ozymandias), the part-time antagonist. Irons delivers a perfect mix of eccentricity and menace.
• Tim Blake Nelson as Wade Tillman (Looking Glass), one of the show's most complex characters, perfectly portrayed by Nelson's earnest and introspective performance.
• Jean Smart as Laurie Blake (Silk Spectre), a former superhero turned FBI agent. Smart's portrayal of the character adds depth and humor to the series.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The show is not a direct adaptation of the comic books, but instead is a sequel set 34 years after the events in the texts.
• Damon Lindelof has referred to his version of "Watchmen" as a 'remix' of the original material.
• The series features a fully scored soundtrack by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, members of the band Nine Inch Nails.
• Regina King's character Angela Abar was not in the original comic book and was created specifically for the show.

Awards

In 2020, 'Watchmen' cleaned up at the 72nd Primetime Emmy Awards, winning eleven awards, including Outstanding Limited Series. Regina King won the award for 'Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie' and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II won 'Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie' for their roles in the series.

Quotes

• "We are all of us livestock. The difference lies in perception." - Adrian Veidt
• "You can't heal under a mask, Angela. Wounds need air." - Will Reeves
• "I'm doing what I can to help people stay safe. I'm not a future nun." - Angela Abar

Music and Soundtrack

• "Watchmen: Volume 1 Soundtrack" was released on 4th November, 2019.
• The music was composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who won an Emmy for their score.
• The soundtrack features a mix of electronic, symphonic, and choral elements, mirroring the series’ blend of superhero, noir, and political elements.
• The hauntingly beautiful song 'Life On Mars?' by David Bowie, featured in the series, added depth to the narrative context and the emotional state of the characters.